The sizzle of chicken in sesame oil is like music to my ears, instantly transporting me to the heart of an Asian bistro. It’s funny how one simple meal can evoke such warmth and nostalgia. I found myself craving something comforting yet wholesome on a busy weeknight, and that’s when I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls. You might be surprised to learn that a dish so vibrant and flavorful takes just 25 minutes to whip up!
This recipe is a lifesaver for anyone who has grown weary of fast food or bland weeknight meals. With tender chicken coated in sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, paired with fluffy rice and crisp broccoli, every bite brings a burst of flavor that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Plus, it’s versatile—swap in your favorite veggies or add a touch of spice for a kick! Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, these Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls are bound to impress and satisfy. Let’s dive in!
Why You'll Love This Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
- This Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls recipe is incredibly easy to make, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors in the teriyaki sauce elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying.
- Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it adaptable to various tastes and preferences.
- Not only is it visually appealing with vibrant colors from the broccoli and garnishes, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls Ingredients
• Ready to create a delicious dish?
For the Chicken
- 1 pound chicken breast – use boneless, skinless for tender results.
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce – the star of this dish, offering that signature sweet and savory flavor.
For the Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice – any variety works, but jasmine rice adds a nice fragrance.
For the Veggies
- 1 cup broccoli florets – steam until bright green for maximum nutrition.
- 2 green onions – sliced thin for a fresh crunch and garnish.
For the Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – this adds a lovely depth of flavor to your chicken.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
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Heat the Oil: In a pan over medium heat, add the sesame oil. Allow it to warm for a minute, filling the air with a lovely aroma.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breast to the pan and sauté until it turns golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure each piece is cooked through for the best flavor.
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Add the Sauce: Pour your teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Stir well to coat all pieces, then let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and infuse the chicken with flavor.
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Steam the Broccoli: While the chicken is cooking, steam your broccoli until it’s bright green and tender, roughly 3-5 minutes. This keeps your veggies fresh and flavorful.
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Assemble the Bowls: Serve the juicy chicken and sizzling sauce over a bed of warm rice. Top it off with the steamed broccoli, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an elegant touch.
Optional: For extra flavor, drizzle a bit more teriyaki sauce over the finished bowls.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls?
Elevate your dining experience with vibrant accompaniments that play beautifully with the bold flavors of your teriyaki dish.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These delightful bites add a crunchy texture and flavor, perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots lightly sautéed brings color and additional crunch to your meal.
- Peanut Slaw: The creamy, nutty goodness of a refreshing slaw can enhance the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce, providing a delightful contrast.
- Edamame: Steamed and sprinkled with sea salt, edamame makes for a satisfying finger food that complements the dish beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with juicy pineapple and crisp apples can cleanse the palate and balance the savory flavors.
- Sake or Green Tea: Pouring some chilled sake or fragrant green tea alongside the meal can turn dinner into a soothing experience, enhancing the flavors.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat pairs world-class with your savory dish, creating a delightful symphony of tastes.
Each of these pairings brings something special to the table, making your Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls a centerpiece for a truly memorable meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the diced chicken in teriyaki sauce up to 24 hours in advance to enhance flavor, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cook the rice and steam the broccoli up to 3 days ahead—just make sure to cool them completely before refrigerating to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious bowls, simply sauté the marinated chicken until cooked through, heat the rice and broccoli, and assemble as directed. This approach not only saves you precious time on busy weeknights but also ensures that your meal is just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Freezer: Freeze leftover teriyaki chicken rice bowls in portioned airtight containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave.
Reheating: Reheat only once to maintain quality. Add a splash of water if the dish appears dry, ensuring moisture during warming.
Storage Tips: For best results, store chicken and rice separately if possible, as the rice can become mushy when stored with the sauce.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls Variations
Feel free to make this dish uniquely yours by incorporating some exciting twists and substitutions!
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Vegetarian: Substitute diced tofu or tempeh for the chicken, marinating them in teriyaki sauce for added flavor. This option provides a great plant-based protein alternative.
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Spicy: Add a splash of sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for an exciting kick that balances the sweetness.
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Brown Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice for a heartier texture and added nutrients, making your meal both filling and healthier.
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Mixed Veggies: Use a blend of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to add color and variety. Each can bring its unique crunch and flavor that brightens the dish!
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Pineapple Teriyaki: Include fresh or canned pineapple chunks in the teriyaki sauce during simmering for a tropical twist that adds sweetness and acidity.
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Coconut Rice: Cook your rice with coconut milk instead of water for a creamy, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
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Noodle Bowls: For a fun twist, serve your teriyaki chicken over soba or udon noodles instead of rice, creating a delightful change in texture and flavor.
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Sesame Soy Sauce: Replace teriyaki sauce with a mix of soy sauce and toasty sesame oil for an umami-packed alternative that brings a different spin on the classic.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For teriyaki chicken rice bowls, make sure to dice the chicken breast evenly for uniform cooking.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become tough; cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside.
- When adding the teriyaki sauce, let it simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld without burning the sugar in the sauce.
- Steam the broccoli just until bright green and tender to retain its nutrients and vibrant color.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for my Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breast, look for meat that is pale pink with a smooth texture. Avoid any chicken with dark spots or an off smell, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh chicken will have a slight sheen and no strong odor, ensuring a juicy, delicious meal.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftover Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend separating the chicken and rice to preserve the texture. When ready to enjoy, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot, and you’re good to go!
Can I freeze Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls?
Very! To freeze, portion your Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls into airtight containers, and they will stay good for up to 2 months. Make sure the bowls are cooled completely before sealing. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave. If it seems dry, add a splash of water to keep it moist and flavorful.
What if my chicken turns out tough?
If you find that your chicken is tough, it might be overcooked. Chicken should be cooked until it’s just no longer pink inside; the golden color outside means it’s cooked perfectly. If you’re unsure, using a meat thermometer can help—chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For future dishes, consider marinating the chicken in a little extra teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking; this adds moisture and tenderness!
Can I modify this recipe to make it healthier or cater to dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a lighter option, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. If you’re watching your carb intake, switch out regular rice for cauliflower rice, which is a great lower-carb alternative. Always check labels on teriyaki sauces to avoid added sugars or allergens; some brands offer low-sodium or gluten-free options, making this recipe easily adaptable for various dietary needs and preferences.
How can I incorporate different vegetables into my Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls?
The more the merrier! You can get creative with veggies—try bell peppers, sugar snap peas, or even carrots for a pop of color and crunch. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and sauté them along with the chicken, or steam them separately and add them to your finished bowls for a fresh touch.
Equipment
- Pan
- Steamer
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound chicken breast use boneless, skinless for tender results
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce the star of this dish, offering that signature sweet and savory flavor
For the Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice any variety works, but jasmine rice adds a nice fragrance
For the Veggies
- 1 cup broccoli florets steam until bright green for maximum nutrition
- 2 green onions sliced thin for a fresh crunch and garnish
For the Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil adds a lovely depth of flavor to your chicken
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch and visual appeal
Instructions
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
- In a pan over medium heat, add the sesame oil. Allow it to warm for a minute, filling the air with a lovely aroma.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the pan and sauté until it turns golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure each piece is cooked through for the best flavor.
- Pour your teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Stir well to coat all pieces, then let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and infuse the chicken with flavor.
- While the chicken is cooking, steam your broccoli until it’s bright green and tender, roughly 3-5 minutes. This keeps your veggies fresh and flavorful.
- Serve the juicy chicken and sizzling sauce over a bed of warm rice. Top it off with the steamed broccoli, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an elegant touch.
