Teriyaki chicken is a beloved dish featuring tender grilled chicken glazed in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. The term teriyaki comes from Japan, combining teri (meaning “shine,” referring to the glossy glaze) and yaki (meaning “grill” or “broil”). Originally developed in Japan as a method to season and preserve fish and meats, teriyaki became widely popular worldwide, especially in the 20th century, when it was adapted with local ingredients and often paired with chicken. Today, it’s celebrated for its rich, umami-packed flavor and beautiful caramelized finish.