Hibachi Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hibachi Chicken is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor from a savory marinade and a light smoky char. It’s quick to make, and the ingredients are easy to find, making it a great option for busy nights. The chicken is tender and juicy, and when paired with stir-fried vegetables and rice, it makes for a complete meal. This recipe is also customizable—add more spice, or serve it with your favorite hibachi-style sides like grilled shrimp, noodles, or dipping sauces. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a small group of friends, Hibachi Chicken is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or lime juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

• Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

For the stir-fry vegetables (optional):

• 1 cup sliced zucchini

• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)

• 1/2 cup sliced onions

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for stir-frying)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, garlic, ginger, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until the honey or sugar dissolves.

2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

4. Prepare the stir-fry vegetables (optional): While the chicken is cooking, heat sesame oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced vegetables and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still slightly crisp. Season with soy sauce and stir to combine.

5. Serve: Once the chicken is done, plate it with the stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and color. Serve with steamed or fried rice for a complete hibachi-inspired meal.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook, including marinating time. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Variations

• Add more spice: If you like your hibachi chicken spicy, add some sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick of heat.

• Vegetarian version: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Be sure to press and marinate the tofu to give it flavor and texture.

• Serve with noodles: Swap the rice for hibachi-style noodles or add them as an additional side for a heartier meal.

• Make it sweeter: Increase the amount of honey or brown sugar in the marinade for a sweeter, more caramelized flavor.

Storage/reheating

Leftover hibachi chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water or oil to keep it moist. For best results, serve it with fresh stir-fried vegetables and rice.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but keep in mind that chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If you use chicken breast, be sure not to overcook it to avoid it becoming dry.

Can I cook the chicken on a grill instead of a skillet?

Absolutely! You can cook the marinated chicken on a preheated grill for a smoky flavor. Just make sure to grill the chicken over medium-high heat and cook it for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the pieces.

How do I make the chicken more tender?

To ensure the chicken stays tender, avoid overcooking it. Marinating the chicken for at least 20 minutes helps to tenderize it, and cooking it over medium-high heat for a short period helps retain its juiciness.

Can I add other vegetables to the stir-fry?

Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you like! Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or baby corn are all great options that pair well with the hibachi chicken.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Marinating the chicken for longer will enhance the flavor, so feel free to prepare it in advance for a quicker meal.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. Make sure the other ingredients, such as rice vinegar, are gluten-free as well.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking. It’s important to marinate fresh or fully thawed chicken to get the best flavor.

Can I use a wok for cooking the chicken?

Yes, a wok would work wonderfully for cooking the chicken! It allows for quick, even cooking, and you can easily stir-fry the chicken while maintaining the high heat necessary for that signature hibachi taste.

Conclusion

Hibachi Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings the taste of Japanese-style grilling right into your kitchen. With its tender, juicy chicken and savory marinade, it’s a satisfying meal that can be paired with stir-fried vegetables, rice, or noodles for a complete hibachi experience. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special dinner party, this recipe will impress with its simple yet delicious flavors. Give it a try and enjoy the authentic hibachi experience at home!

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