seattle chicken teriyaki recipe

Seattle Chicken Teriyaki: A Pacific Northwest Staple

Seattle chicken teriyaki is a ubiquitous dish in the Emerald City, known for its tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, often served with steamed rice and a side salad. This flavorful meal, while found across the United States, has a distinct character in Seattle, differing slightly from traditional Japanese teriyaki.

Seattle-style teriyaki stands out due to its accessibility, affordability, and unique flavor profile, making it a local favorite. Its popularity can be attributed to the large number of teriyaki restaurants that sprung up in the area, creating a competitive and delicious landscape for this beloved dish.

What Makes Seattle Teriyaki Unique?

While originating from Japanese cuisine, Seattle teriyaki has evolved to suit local tastes. The sauce tends to be sweeter and thicker than traditional teriyaki sauces, often incorporating brown sugar and ginger for depth. The chicken is typically marinated to ensure maximum flavor absorption and tenderness.

Another characteristic is the portion size – Seattle teriyaki is known for its generous servings, often providing ample leftovers. You’ll often find it served with a simple, refreshing side salad, usually consisting of lettuce, carrots, and a light ginger dressing, providing a counterpoint to the richness of the teriyaki.

How to Make Authentic Seattle Chicken Teriyaki

Creating Seattle-style teriyaki at home is surprisingly simple. Here’s a basic recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sake (if using), ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook until the sauce is glossy and coats the chicken.
6. Serve over steamed rice with a side salad.

Read more about the origin of teriyaki on Wikipedia.

Tips for Perfect Seattle Teriyaki

• Use chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your liking by adding more or less brown sugar.
• For a deeper flavor, use dark soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Seattle famous for teriyaki?

Seattle’s unique take on teriyaki, with its sweeter, thicker sauce and generous portions, gained popularity due to the proliferation of teriyaki restaurants adapting the dish to local preferences.

What is the difference between Japanese and Seattle teriyaki?

Japanese teriyaki tends to be lighter and more savory, while Seattle teriyaki is typically sweeter and has a thicker sauce.

What goes well with chicken teriyaki?

Steamed rice and a simple green salad are classic accompaniments. Other options include stir-fried vegetables, edamame, or miso soup.

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their richer flavor and ability to stay moist. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it.

How long can I store leftover teriyaki chicken?

Leftover teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Summary

Seattle chicken teriyaki is a beloved local dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served with rice and a simple salad. Its unique flavor profile and generous portions make it a satisfying and accessible meal. Easy to make at home, it’s a delicious way to experience a taste of the Pacific Northwest.