This umadare chicken chashu (soy-glazed braised chicken) is shockingly tender—like the perfect blend of Japanese chashu and chicken ham.
It has the deep savory flavor and glossy finish of chashu, yet stays as soft and moist as slow-cooked chicken breast.The secret lies in using soy sauce and sugar as the base, skipping mirin to prevent toughness, and sealing in moisture with sesame oil.
Just prick the chicken thoroughly with a fork, mix in the sauce, and microwave—no stove, no mess, no stress.
This dish can also be frozen for later and makes an ideal protein for bento boxes, rice bowls, or ramen toppings.
Tips & VariationsSubstitutions:
・Chicken breast → Chicken thigh can also be used.
・Sesame oil → Substitute with olive or vegetable oil. You can also reduce the amount of sesame oil slightly if you prefer a milder flavor.
・Garlic → Optional, but adds depth.
Technique:
・Piercing the chicken thoroughly with a fork is key—this allows the flavors to penetrate and keeps it tender.
・Avoid reducing the amount of sesame oil too much; it is key in preventing the chicken from drying out.
・You can leave the skin on the chicken or use a skinless chicken breast based on your preference.
・Be sure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety. Adjust time as needed depending on your microwave.
Storage:
・Refrigerator: 3–4 days
・Freezer: Up to 1 month
・Freezer marinade (uncooked): Up to 1 month — simply thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Serving Ideas
・Serve as a main dish with rice and greens.
・Slice and use as a ramen topping or sandwich filling.
・Reheat gently in a microwave or pan for the best texture.
20 minutes
Yuu
PROFILE
INGREDIENTS
SERVES 2
Original recipe (1X) yields 2 servings
When scaling the recipe, the ratios of some ingredients may require slight adjustments. Adjust as necessary and season to taste.
- 1 large, boneless chicken breast, skin-on if preferred
- A1 1/2 tbsp. soy sauce
- A1 tbsp. sugar
- A1 tbsp. sesame oil
- AA pinch of salt
- ACoarsely ground black pepper, to taste
- A1/2 tsp. grated garlic (or 1–2 cm from a tube)
INSTRUCTIONS
- 1
Prep: Place the chicken breast in a microwave-safe dish. Pierce the skin side all over with a fork to help it better absorb the flavors.Add all A ingredients (soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and garlic), coating evenly, and place the chicken skin-side down. Cover loosely with plastic wrap. Microwave at 600W for about 7 minutes, then leave in the microwave for another 10 minutes to steam through.
- 2
Marinate (optional): If you have time, transfer the chicken and sauce to a resealable bag and let it cool completely—this deepens the flavor. Add boiled eggs to the bag and marinate for a bonus treat!
- 3
Serve: Slice and plate. If short on time, skip step 2 and drizzle with the remaining sauce before serving.
RecipeID
475
Tips & Notes
Substitutions:
・Chicken breast → Chicken thigh can also be used.
・Sesame oil → Substitute with olive or vegetable oil. You can also reduce the amount of sesame oil slightly if you prefer a milder flavor.
・Garlic → Optional, but adds depth.
Technique:
・Piercing the chicken thoroughly with a fork is key—this allows the flavors to penetrate and keeps it tender.
・Avoid reducing the amount of sesame oil too much; it is key in preventing the chicken from drying out.
・You can leave the skin on the chicken or use a skinless chicken breast based on your preference.
・Be sure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety. Adjust time as needed depending on your microwave.
Storage:
・Refrigerator: 3–4 days
・Freezer: Up to 1 month
・Freezer marinade (uncooked): Up to 1 month — simply thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Serving Ideas:
・Serve as a main dish with rice and greens.
・Slice and use as a ramen topping or sandwich filling.
・Reheat gently in a microwave or pan for the best texture.
MY RATING
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"Based in Fukuoka, Japan. * Creating opportunities to make cooking more enjoyable * 【Recipes you’ll want to make even when you’re not in the mood】 【For those who are busy or not confident in cooking, but still want to be praised】 【For creating happy family moments】 These are the goals I aim for in my recipes. I specialize in dishes made with seasonal vegetables, healthy ingredients, and budget-friendly foods. Too many things to do to spend a lot of time cooking! No time to linger in the kitchen while raising kids! Constantly juggling work and home life! I’m happy if my recipes can help bring a little more time and peace of mind to your days. Favorite snack: dried squid (atarime)."