Does Teriyaki Chicken Have Sugar in It?

December 29, 2025 •

4 min read

According to USDA data, a single tablespoon of standard teriyaki sauce can contain several grams of sugar, which is why the answer to "does teriyaki chicken have sugar in it?" is a definitive yes. The signature sweet and savory flavor that makes this dish so popular is largely dependent on its sugar content, alongside salty soy sauce.

Quick Summary

Teriyaki chicken includes sugar primarily from its sauce, which typically contains sweeteners like brown sugar, honey, or mirin. The total amount varies significantly by recipe or brand, with restaurant and bottled sauces often having more than homemade versions. Controlling sugar intake is possible by making the sauce from scratch or choosing low-sugar alternatives.

Key Points

Sugar is a core ingredient: Teriyaki sauce, and by extension teriyaki chicken, includes sugar to balance the savory flavor of soy sauce.
Content varies widely: The sugar amount in teriyaki chicken differs significantly depending on if it is homemade or a store-bought/restaurant version.
Sauce is the source: Plain chicken itself has no sugar, so all the sugar comes from the sauce or glaze used in preparation.
Homemade offers control: Preparing teriyaki at home allows you to use healthier, low-sugar alternatives like monk fruit, honey, or pineapple juice.
Bottled versions can be high: Store-bought and restaurant teriyaki sauces often contain added sweeteners and higher levels of sugar and sodium.
Healthier alternatives exist: Look for low-sodium, low-sugar, or 'no sugar added' sauce options when purchasing pre-made products.

The Role of Sugar in Teriyaki Sauce

Sugar is a fundamental component of the classic teriyaki sauce recipe, providing the distinct sweetness that balances the savory, salty notes of the soy sauce. In addition to flavor, sugar also plays a crucial role in creating the signature glossy, thick glaze that coats the chicken during cooking. This caramelization process gives the dish its appealing color and sticky texture. The sweeteners used can vary, from traditional mirin (a sweet rice wine) and sake to more Westernized additions like brown sugar, honey, or corn syrup.

Comparing Sugar Content: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

The amount of sugar in teriyaki chicken largely depends on whether it's made from scratch or with a pre-made, bottled sauce. The convenience of store-bought sauces often comes with a trade-off: higher sugar and sodium levels. For example, some brands pack 3 to 5 grams of sugar into a single tablespoon, while homemade recipes allow for complete control over the quantity and type of sweetener used.

Store-bought sauces: Often contain added sugars, such as high-fructose corn syrup, to enhance flavor and texture. Brands like Panda Express report 10 grams of sugar in a 6 oz serving of their teriyaki chicken.
Restaurant versions: Like many menu items, restaurant teriyaki chicken can have a high sugar content, along with elevated sodium levels, depending on the establishment's specific recipe.
Homemade teriyaki: Offers the greatest control. By using natural alternatives or simply reducing the amount, you can tailor the sweetness to your dietary needs.

The Impact of Sugar in Your Diet

While teriyaki chicken is a delicious meal, it's important to be mindful of its nutritional profile, especially regarding sugar. Consuming high amounts of added sugar can contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, inflammation, and other health issues. For individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes, selecting a low-sugar option or preparing the dish at home is highly recommended. The good news is that the chicken itself contains no sugar, so the focus is entirely on the sauce and any accompaniments.

Low-Sugar and Sugar-Free Teriyaki Options

For those looking to reduce their sugar intake, several strategies can be employed to enjoy teriyaki chicken without the guilt. Making your own sauce allows you to substitute or limit the sugar without sacrificing flavor.

Low-Sugar Teriyaki Sauce Recipe

Making a healthier version at home is surprisingly simple. This recipe uses natural sweeteners in moderation and offers a delicious alternative.

Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or monk fruit syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients except cornstarch in a saucepan.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry.
- Heat the sauce mixture, whisking constantly.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.

Flavorful Alternatives to Sugar

Monk fruit or stevia: Use these natural, zero-calorie sweeteners for a sugar-free result.
Pineapple juice: Provides a natural, fruity sweetness, as seen in some recipes.
Dates: Blending pitted Medjool dates can provide a naturally sweet and thick sauce base.

Homemade vs. Restaurant Teriyaki Chicken Comparison


Feature	Homemade Teriyaki Chicken	Restaurant Teriyaki Chicken
Sugar Content	Fully controlled; can be significantly lower or sugar-free.	Often high, with sugar used generously in glazes and sauces.
Sodium Content	Lower, especially when using low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.	Can be very high, exceeding recommended daily intake.
Ingredients	Fresh, whole ingredients, without preservatives or artificial additives.	May contain preservatives, high-fructose corn syrup, and other additives.
Nutritional Profile	Customizable to fit dietary goals, such as lower carbs or calories.	Pre-determined and often higher in fat, sodium, and calories.
Flavor Control	Easily adjusted to personal preference for sweetness, spice, and tang.	Standardized flavor profile, with less room for customization.

Conclusion: Making Smarter Choices

In conclusion, teriyaki chicken does contain sugar, and in many commercially prepared versions, the sugar content can be quite high. The source of the sweetness is the teriyaki sauce, which is a staple ingredient for both flavor and that appealing, shiny glaze. The good news is that you have complete control over this variable. For those prioritizing a lower sugar diet, preparing the dish at home with fresh, simple ingredients and a homemade sauce is the best option. By doing so, you can enjoy the delicious, savory-sweet flavor of teriyaki chicken while keeping its nutritional profile aligned with your health goals. Whether you opt for a sugar-free sweetener or just a touch of honey, a healthier, homemade version is well within reach. For more information on food and nutrition, consider consulting reputable sources such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at www.nih.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

While teriyaki chicken can be a part of a healthy diet, its healthfulness largely depends on the preparation method. Homemade versions with low-sugar sauce and lean chicken are healthier than many high-sugar, high-sodium restaurant or bottled options.

The sweetness in teriyaki sauce comes from a combination of ingredients, including mirin (a sweet rice wine) and sometimes added sugars like brown sugar, honey, or corn syrup.

The sugar content varies by restaurant, but many versions are high in sugar. For example, a 6 oz serving of Panda Express teriyaki chicken contains 10 grams of sugar.

Yes, you can make a sugar-free teriyaki sauce at home. Recipes often substitute traditional sweeteners with alternatives like monk fruit, stevia, or use natural sweetness from ingredients like pineapple juice.

Yes, teriyaki chicken is typically high in sodium due to the soy sauce base of the marinade. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos can significantly reduce sodium levels.

Honey is a common addition to many Westernized teriyaki sauce recipes, providing a sweet flavor and helping with the glaze. Traditional Japanese recipes primarily use mirin and sugar for sweetness.

Low-sugar substitutes include making your own sauce with monk fruit, using pineapple juice as a natural sweetener, or purchasing specific 'no sugar added' or 'light' versions available in stores.