01 -
First things first, get your mise en place on! Slice your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, about an inch or so. Now, let's get that sauce ready – whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Don't forget the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) in a separate tiny bowl; we'll need that later. This step, honestly, is where I usually forget something, so double-check those ingredients! It smells so good already, even just raw.
02 -
Get a big pot of water boiling, just like you would for pasta. Add a good pinch of salt – yes, salt your water, it makes a difference! Cook your ramen or udon noodles according to package directions until they're tender but still have a little bite. Drain them well and give them a quick rinse with cold water to stop them from cooking further and sticking together. Set them aside. I always taste a noodle to make sure it's just right; undercooked noodles are just sad.
03 -
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of cooking oil (like canola or vegetable). Once it's shimmering, add your chicken pieces in a single layer. Don't overcrowd the pan, or it'll steam instead of sear! Cook for about 3-4 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. This is where you get those delicious crispy bits, which are essential, honestly. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
04 -
In the same skillet, if it looks a little dry, add another splash of oil. Toss in your broccoli florets (or whatever veggies you're using!). Sauté for 3-5 minutes, until they're tender-crisp and bright green. I love the smell of the broccoli getting a little charred; it adds so much depth. If you like your veggies softer, add a splash of water and cover the pan for a minute or two to steam them.
05 -
Now, pour that whisked teriyaki sauce mixture into the skillet with the veggies. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Once it starts bubbling, give your cornstarch slurry a quick re-whisk and slowly pour it into the simmering sauce, stirring continuously. Watch it thicken right before your eyes – it's like kitchen magic! Let it bubble for another minute until it's glossy and coats the back of a spoon. This is where the kitchen starts smelling incredible, honestly.
06 -
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the thickened teriyaki sauce and veggies. Toss everything to coat evenly. Finally, add your cooked noodles to the pan and toss again until they're fully coated in that beautiful, glossy sauce. Drizzle with a little sesame oil, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately! This dish just feels so satisfying, a perfect balance of savory and sweet.