After a long day of work, I often find myself craving something quick, delicious, and a little adventurous. That’s exactly why I turned to these Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Creamy Sesame Cucumbers. Picture this: succulent, teriyaki-glazed chicken thighs, perfectly caramelized until crispy, nestled in warm tortillas and topped with a vibrant, tangy cucumber slaw. It’s a delightful embrace of textures and flavors that elevate a simple taco night into an exciting culinary experience.
I stumbled upon this recipe on a particularly busy weeknight, and it quickly became a staple in our home. Not only does it come together in just 30 minutes, but it adapts to whatever we’re in the mood for—whether that’s gluten-free tortillas or a veggie-packed slaw. These tacos are crowd-pleasers for the entire family, transforming our dinner table into a fusion feast that’s as fresh and satisfying as it is easy to prepare. So grab your apron and join me in this savory adventure that’s certain to banish any lingering fast food cravings!
Why are Teriyaki Chicken Tacos so irresistible?
Quick Preparation: This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, ready in just 30 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: The perfect blend of savory teriyaki chicken and creamy cucumber slaw creates a delightful fusion.
Versatile Ingredients: Adapt the recipe with gluten-free tortillas or swap chicken for tofu for a customized experience.
Family-Friendly: These tacos are sure to please young and old alike, making dinner time a hit!
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, it’s a guilt-free meal that satisfies. For more quick dinner ideas, check out our delicious article on easy weeknight meals.
Teriyaki Chicken Tacos Ingredients
• Discover the essentials for creating delicious Teriyaki Chicken Tacos.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy, they provide the best flavor; can substitute with chicken breasts if needed.
- Teriyaki Sauce – This rich sauce infuses the chicken with its signature flavor; feel free to use a store-bought brand or make your own.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a sweet, caramelized touch to the chicken; adjust the amount based on your preferred sweetness level.
For the Creamy Cucumber Slaw
- Persian or English Cucumbers – Their smaller size adds a crisp texture; avoid large, seedy cucumbers for the best crunch.
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess to the slaw dressing; can be swapped with sour cream if desired.
- Mayonnaise – Brings richness to the dressing, enhancing its flavor.
- Rice Vinegar – Provides a tangy kick; seasoned rice vinegar works wonderfully to balance flavors.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – Deepens the flavor of the dressing, making it irresistible.
- Chili Crunch – Add this for a spicy twist, tailored to your heat preference.
- Fresh Herbs (Cilantro, Green Onions, Mint) – Introduces freshness and complexity to the tacos’ taste.
- Sesame Seeds – A beautiful garnish that adds a touch of nuttiness.
For Assembly
- Flour Tortillas – Serve as the vessel for these flavorful tacos; corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option.
- Avocado – A luscious addition that pairs perfectly with the other flavors and adds creaminess.
- Crushed Peanuts – Optional topping for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Get ready to whip up these tasty tacos that will wow your family with their unique blend of flavors!
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Tacos
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Season Chicken: Start by sprinkling salt and pepper on the boneless skinless chicken thighs. Coat them with 1/3 cup of teriyaki sauce in your Instant Pot; cook on high pressure for 10 minutes to lock in that delicious flavor.
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Prepare Cucumbers: While the chicken cooks, thinly slice the Persian or English cucumbers. In a bowl, mix them with Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sweet chili sauce, toasted sesame oil, chili crunch, and a pinch of salt. Fold in fresh herbs, creating a creamy slaw bursting with flavor.
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Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is done, shred it using forks or tongs for that perfect texture. Transfer shredded chicken onto a baking sheet and drizzle the remaining teriyaki and sweet chili sauce over it, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
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Broil Chicken: To get that crispy texture, broil the chicken in the oven for 3-6 minutes until it’s golden brown and caramelized. Watch closely to avoid burning!
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Warm Tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas over a gas flame for a few seconds on each side or give them a quick run in the oven/microwave until they’re soft and pliable.
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Assemble Tacos: Layer the crispy chicken on each tortilla, add generous scoops of the creamy cucumber slaw, diced avocado, and finish off with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts and sesame seeds. Serve them up hot for maximum enjoyment!
Optional: Garnish with fresh lime wedges and more herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken Tacos
- Fridge: Store leftover chicken and creamy cucumber slaw in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep them separate to maintain the texture and freshness.
- Freezer: If you want to save the chicken, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the chicken crispy.
- Avoid sogginess: If you’re making these for later, assemble only the tortillas and chicken, adding the slaw right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Tacos
- Chicken Choice: Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for maximum juiciness; if substituting with breasts, be mindful of cooking time to prevent dryness.
- Shredding Technique: Shred the chicken while it’s still warm for easier handling and better texture; it also absorbs the teriyaki flavor more effectively.
- Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye on the chicken while broiling; the sugar in the teriyaki sauce can caramelize quickly and burn if left unattended.
- Customize Your Slaw: Feel free to add shredded carrots or bell peppers to the creamy cucumber slaw for added color and nutrition; this enhances the overall experience of the Teriyaki Chicken Tacos.
- Store Separately: When storing leftovers, keep the chicken and slaw separate to maintain the texture of the tacos, heating chicken before serving.
- Make It Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free option, substitute flour tortillas with corn tortillas and ensure your sauces are certified gluten-free.
Make Ahead Options
These Teriyaki Chicken Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken and creamy cucumber slaw up to 3 days in advance. Simply season and cook the chicken in your Instant Pot, shred it, and then refrigerate it separately from the slaw to maintain texture and flavor. The slaw can be made by combining sliced cucumbers with the yogurt, mayonnaise, and seasonings; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, broil the shredded chicken for about 3-6 minutes to achieve that crispy finish, warm the tortillas, and then assemble the tacos for a delightful dining experience that feels fresh and just as delicious!
What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Tacos?
Transform your taco night into a memorable feast with vibrant, crowd-pleasing sides that complement every bite.
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Crispy Wontons: These delightful bites provide a crunchy contrast, perfect for scooping up leftover slaw or dipping into sweet chili sauce. The added texture will keep everyone coming back for more.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds a comforting, umami-rich flavor that balances the sweetness of the teriyaki chicken, soothing the palate and enhancing the meal’s depth.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: This quick stir-fry offers a fresh, earthy crunch that pairs beautifully with the tacos, adding a pop of green and a slight bitterness that complements the savory chicken.
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Asian Slaw: Keep the flavors flowing with a tangy Asian slaw, offering a refreshing crunch, and harmonizing with the creamy cucumber slaw while varying the textures on your plate.
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Coconut Rice: A subtly sweet, fragrant coconut rice will elevate your meal by marrying the Asian flavors while keeping it light and fluffy; it’s the perfect bed for the flavors of the tacos.
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Chilled Edamame: A light and healthy option, serving edamame as an appetizer adds an interactive element to your meal while providing a boost in protein and fiber, making it a satisfying addition.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: For a refreshing finish, a colorful medley of mango, pineapple, and kiwi creates a sweet contrast to the savory tacos and cleanses the palate beautifully.
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Sparkling Green Tea: Complement the meal with a refreshing beverage like sparkling green tea, which adds a nice fizz while balancing out the rich flavors of the dish with its delicate, earthy notes.
Teriyaki Chicken Tacos Variations
Customize your Teriyaki Chicken Tacos to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute flour tortillas with corn tortillas to create a delicious gluten-free option. Enjoy the same great flavors without compromise!
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Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, beef, or crumbled tofu for a different protein base, providing a unique spin on this family favorite. Each alternative brings its own distinct taste and texture!
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Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of fresh jalapeños to your tacos or increase the chili crunch for those who love a little heat in their meal. It’ll intensify the experience and tickle your taste buds!
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Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill instead of the typical cilantro and green onions. This twist can introduce refreshing new flavors and scents!
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Crunchy Slaw: Use a mix of coleslaw or add in shredded carrots for a colorful, crunchy texture contrast against the creamy cucumbers. Brightens up each bite with delightful freshness!
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime juice over your tacos or include slices of lime as garnish for that bright, zesty flavor that enhances all the other ingredients. Your tangy delight awaits!
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Creamy Variations: Swap plain Greek yogurt with avocado or a vegan sour cream alternative to cater to different dietary needs and create a subtly different texture. Creamy goodness for all!
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Nutty Flavor: Adding toasted sesame seeds or crushed cashews on top brings a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, enriching your tacos both visually and taste-wise. You’ll be amazed at how this small addition makes a big difference!
Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Creamy Sesame Cucumbers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cucumbers for the slaw?
Absolutely! For the best crunch and flavor in your creamy cucumber slaw, I recommend using Persian or English cucumbers. They’re smaller, seedless, and have a satisfying crunch compared to larger, seedy varieties. Look for cucumbers that are firm and without dark spots, which indicates freshness.
What is the best way to store leftover Teriyaki Chicken Tacos?
To maintain the texture and flavor of your tacos, store the chicken and creamy cucumber slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They can stay fresh for up to 3 days. This way, the tortillas won’t get soggy, and you can simply reassemble the tacos just before serving!
Can I freeze the Teriyaki Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze the chicken, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will maintain its best quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until it’s warmed through.
What if my chicken is too dry after cooking?
Very! If your chicken turns out dry after cooking, it’s likely due to overcooking. To troubleshoot, next time ensure you cook it just until it’s no longer pink, and consider marinating it for a couple of hours before cooking to enhance moisture. If it happens again, shred the chicken and mix it with a bit more teriyaki sauce—it’ll add flavor and moisture!
Are these Teriyaki Chicken Tacos gluten-free?
Yes, they can be! To make gluten-free Teriyaki Chicken Tacos, simply substitute flour tortillas for corn tortillas and ensure that your teriyaki sauce and sweet chili sauce are gluten-free. There are many brands that offer gluten-free options, so just check the labels while shopping!
Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Cool Creamy Cucumber Slaw
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the chicken thighs, coat with teriyaki sauce, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes in the Instant Pot.
- Prepare Cucumbers: Thinly slice the cucumbers and mix in a bowl with Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sweet chili sauce, toasted sesame oil, chili crunch, and salt. Add fresh herbs.
- Shred Chicken: After cooking, shred the chicken and drizzle remaining sauces over it.
- Broil Chicken: Broil in the oven for 3-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Warm Tortillas: Warm flour tortillas over a gas flame or in the oven/microwave.
- Assemble Tacos: Fill tortillas with chicken, cucumber slaw, avocado, crushed peanuts, and sesame seeds.