Introduction to Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

If you’re a fan of fusion cuisine, Teriyaki Chicken Pizza is a game-changer. This dish brings together the bold, umami-rich flavors of teriyaki sauce with the crispy, cheesy goodness of pizza. Originating from Japan, teriyaki sauce is a perfect blend of soy sauce, mirin, sugar, garlic, and ginger, creating a balance of sweet and savory flavors that complement tender, marinated chicken beautifully.

The idea of combining teriyaki chicken with pizza may seem unconventional, but it works incredibly well. The slightly charred, juicy chicken glazed in sticky teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with melted mozzarella cheese, crispy pizza crust, and toppings like onions, mushrooms, and toasted nori. This fusion dish offers a taste experience that satisfies lovers of both Japanese and Italian cuisine.

What makes Teriyaki Chicken Pizza even more appealing is its versatility. Whether you prefer a thick, doughy crust or a thin, crispy base, this pizza can be customized to fit your preference. Plus, it pairs well with a variety of sides, from Asian coleslaw to a refreshing green tea beverage.

If you love bold flavors, you might also enjoy this Teriyaki Chicken Avocado Rice Stack for another unique take on teriyaki-infused dishes! 🍕🔥

Why Teriyaki Chicken Pizza Works

The key to this pizza’s unique taste is its teriyaki glaze, a blend of:

Soy sauce – Adds deep, salty umami flavor
Mirin – A subtly sweet Japanese rice wine
Sugar – Helps caramelize the sauce, creating a sticky texture
Garlic & ginger – Enhance the aromatic depth

The second essential component is a good pizza base. Whether you prefer a classic hand-tossed crust or a thin and crispy base, the right dough ensures a firm foundation for the toppings. Love homemade pizza? Try this indulgent Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza for a classic cheesy experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pizza Dough (Skip if using store-bought dough)

2 ½ cups bread flour (for a chewy crust)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup warm water
2 teaspoons instant yeast

For the Teriyaki Sauce

¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic

For the Toppings

1 chicken thigh fillet (or breast)
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise
1 teaspoon toasted nori strips (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
Slowly add warm water and olive oil, kneading until smooth.
Cover and let it rest for 1 hour until it doubles in size.

2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce

Combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan.
Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Cook the Chicken

Slice chicken thigh fillets into strips.
In a pan, cook the chicken with half the teriyaki sauce until glazed.

4. Assemble the Pizza

Roll out the dough into a 12-inch round.
Spread a thin layer of teriyaki sauce as the base.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly.
Add chicken, onions, and mushrooms.
Drizzle with Japanese mayonnaise.

5. Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Top with toasted nori strips before serving.

Teriyaki Chicken Pizza Recipe – Sweet, Savory & Easy to Make — Teriyaki Chicken Pizza – skilledcooks

Variations to Try

One of the best things about Teriyaki Chicken Pizza is its versatility. Whether you like it classic, spicy, or even with a tropical twist, there’s a version for everyone!

🍕 Classic Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

The traditional version features teriyaki-glazed chicken, mozzarella cheese, onions, and shiitake mushrooms on a crispy pizza crust.
Garnish with toasted nori strips for an extra umami kick.

🔥 Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

Add Sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños to the teriyaki sauce for a fiery twist.
Drizzle with spicy mayo before serving.

🍍 Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

Love sweet and savory? Add pineapple chunks to balance the salty, umami-rich teriyaki sauce.
Combine with crispy bacon for extra texture.

🌿 Vegan Teriyaki Pizza

Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or jackfruit marinated in teriyaki sauce.
Use vegan cheese and load up on fresh veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions.

🍚 Rice-Based Teriyaki Pizza Alternative

Instead of traditional dough, use a crispy rice crust for a fun twist.
This is similar to the Teriyaki Chicken Avocado Rice Stack, but in pizza form!

Want another teriyaki-infused dish? Try these flavorful Chicken Teriyaki Noodles for a noodle-based alternative! 🍜🔥

Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

wiolleta bertan

A delicious fusion of Japanese and Italian flavors, this Teriyaki Chicken Pizza features juicy teriyaki-glazed chicken, melted mozzarella cheese, and a crispy pizza crust. Perfect for a sweet and savory twist on classic pizza!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 15

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian, Japanese

Servings 4 serves

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

For the Dough Skip if using store-bought
2 ½ cups bread flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup warm water
2 teaspoons instant yeast
For the Teriyaki Sauce
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
For the Toppings
1 chicken thigh fillet sliced
1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
½ onion thinly sliced
¼ cup shiitake mushrooms sliced
2 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise
1 teaspoon toasted nori strips optional

Instructions

Prepare the Dough
Mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
Add warm water and olive oil, knead until smooth.
Let it rest for 1 hour to double in size.
Make the Teriyaki Sauce
Combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan.
Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Cook the Chicken
Marinate the chicken in half the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes.
Pan-sear or grill until fully cooked.
Assemble the Pizza
Roll out the dough into a 12-inch round.
Spread a thin layer of teriyaki sauce as the base.
Add mozzarella cheese, chicken, onions, and mushrooms.
Drizzle with Japanese mayonnaise.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and crispy.
Garnish with toasted nori strips before serving.

Notes

Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha.
Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken for grilled tofu or jackfruit.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free pizza crust and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Keyword Baking, Vegetarian

Best Pairings for Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

Drinks: Green tea, sake, or craft beer complement the flavors well.
Side Dishes: Try Asian coleslaw, miso soup, or edamame for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Teriyaki Chicken Pizza in an airtight container or wrap it in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, freeze individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Best Reheating Methods

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes on a baking sheet. This keeps the crust crispy and the cheese melty.
Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium-low heat, place the pizza inside, and cover with a lid for 3-5 minutes.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes for a crispy texture.
Avoid the Microwave: It makes the crust soggy and chewy.

For another homemade pizza option, check out The origins of teriyaki sauce! 🍕🔥

Side Dishes & Pairings for Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

Pair your Teriyaki Chicken Pizza with the right sides and drinks to enhance the sweet and savory flavors. Here are the best options:

🍽️ Best Side Dishes

Asian Slaw – A crisp, tangy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing balances the richness of the pizza.
Edamame with Sea Salt – A simple yet nutritious side that complements teriyaki flavors.
Miso Soup – A light, umami-packed soup that pairs perfectly with the pizza’s bold taste.
Garlic Butter Potatoes – If you love hearty sides, try these crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes for an extra indulgent pairing.

🥂 Best Drink Pairings

Green Tea – A refreshing, slightly bitter tea that cleanses the palate.
Sake – A smooth, lightly sweet rice wine that complements teriyaki sauce.

Looking for another meal idea? Try these delicious Chicken Teriyaki Noodles for a noodle-based twist on teriyaki! 🍜🔥

Tips for the Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

Want to make your Teriyaki Chicken Pizza restaurant-quality? Follow these pro tips to get the perfect balance of crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings.

1. Choose the Right Pizza Base

A thin crust works best if you prefer a crispier bite that highlights the toppings.
A thicker crust absorbs more teriyaki sauce and offers a soft, chewy texture.
For a unique twist, try a stuffed crust like this Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza.

2. Perfect the Teriyaki Sauce Consistency

The sauce should be slightly thick but still spreadable. If it’s too thin, it will make the pizza soggy; if too thick, it won’t spread evenly.
Simmer the sauce until it coats the back of a spoon, then let it cool slightly before spreading.

3. Get the Chicken Just Right

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to soak up maximum flavor.
Grill, pan-sear, or bake it to get a nice caramelized glaze before adding it to the pizza.

4. Layer the Toppings Correctly

Spread a thin layer of teriyaki sauce on the crust before adding cheese—this prevents sogginess.
Place the chicken, onions, and mushrooms evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.

5. Bake at the Right Temperature

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes for a golden crust.
Use a pizza stone for a crispier bottom.

For another teriyaki-inspired meal, try these flavorful Chicken Teriyaki Noodles! 🍜🔥

FAQs To Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

1. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce for this pizza?

Absolutely! While homemade teriyaki sauce gives you better control over the flavor, a high-quality store-bought version works just as well. Look for a sauce that has a good balance of sweetness and umami without being overly salty.

2. What cheese pairs best with teriyaki flavors?

Mozzarella is the go-to cheese for this pizza, as it melts beautifully and doesn’t overpower the sauce. However, if you want extra creaminess, try adding Gouda or Monterey Jack for a richer texture.

3. How do I prevent my pizza from becoming too salty?

Since teriyaki sauce already has soy sauce, which is naturally salty, balance it by using low-sodium soy sauce or adding a touch of honey. Also, go easy on the additional salt in the dough or toppings.

4. Can I make Teriyaki Chicken Pizza gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free pizza crust and swap the soy sauce in the teriyaki glaze for tamari or coconut aminos. Also, check that your toppings are gluten-free.

5. What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this pizza?

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes, then pan-sear or grill it before slicing. This ensures a juicy, caramelized texture.

**6. Can I make Teriyaki Chicken Pizza in an air fryer?**

Definitely! Cook the pizza at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning. An air fryer gives the crust a nice crisp while keeping the toppings juicy.

For another teriyaki-inspired dish, try these delicious Chicken Teriyaki Noodles—perfect for noodle lovers! 🍜🔥

Final Thoughts

Making Teriyaki Chicken Pizza at home is easier than you think! Whether you go for a classic version, spice things up, or make it Hawaiian-style, this fusion pizza is a guaranteed hit.

Try it out and let us know—what’s your favorite teriyaki pizza topping? 🍕🔥