When I first made this teriyaki chicken rice bowl, I couldn’t believe how incredibly easy it was to create something this flavorful at home. It’s a meal that hits all the right notes with tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and fresh veggies.
Plus, the homemade teriyaki sauce is such a game changer! If you’ve been exploring options for quick yet satisfying meals, this will soon become your go-to recipe. Love Asian-inspired meals? You can also enjoy similar recipes, like this Moroccan roasted potatoes for a tasty side dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect teriyaki chicken rice bowl, gathering fresh, high-quality ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need along with a couple of handy tips to elevate the recipe.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (4 pieces): These are lean and absorb the teriyaki sauce beautifully. Alternatively, chicken thighs can add a richer flavor.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Extra virgin olive oil enhances browning.
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce (1/2 cup): Helps control the saltiness of the dish while providing rich umami.
- Water (1/2 cup): Essential for thinning the sauce.
- Brown Sugar (3 tablespoons): Opt for dark brown sugar if you want a deeper molasses flavor.
- Rice Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Gives the sauce its signature tang.
- Sesame Oil (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a toasty, nutty essence.
- Ground Ginger (1 teaspoon): For zesty warmth. Fresh ginger can be a great substitute for more pungency.
- Minced Garlic (2 teaspoons): Use fresh garlic for its boldness.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Sweetens and thickens the sauce naturally.
- Cornstarch (3 teaspoons): Thickens the sauce enough to coat the chicken perfectly.
- Rice (as needed for serving): Jasmine rice or short-grain rice works best.
- Steamed Vegetables (as desired): Carrots, broccoli, or snap peas complement the dish.
Note: This recipe serves four generously but can be scaled easily.
Variations to Try
Make this recipe your own with these variations to suit dietary needs or preferred flavors!
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Spicy Twist: Add red chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce.
- Sugar-Free: Substitute honey and brown sugar with erythritol or stevia.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable stock instead of water.
For more dinner inspiration, explore our collection of amazing dinner recipes to enrich your weekly menu.”
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
Here’s a quick list of items you’ll need to whip up this meal effortlessly.
- Large Skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly.
- Mixing Bowl: To whisk together the sauce.
- Whisk: Ensures smooth sauce consistency.
- Chef’s Knife: For cutting the chicken into cubes.
- Chopping Board: To prep chicken and veggies.
- Rice Cooker or Pot: To cook the rice to perfection.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls are a delicious and easy meal perfect for any time of the day. The combination of tender chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and steamed rice makes for a satisfying dish. Here’s how to prepare this tasty bowl:
Start with the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the cubed chicken breast pieces. Cook them until golden brown, ensuring they’re fully cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. Draining any excess liquid will help maintain a good sear.
Create Your Signature Teriyaki Sauce
While the chicken is browning, whisk soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch in a bowl. The cornstarch helps the sauce thicken to a glaze-like texture as it cooks.
Combine and Cook
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together and simmer gently. Over the next few minutes, the sauce will thicken beautifully and coat the chicken evenly.
Prepare the Rice and Veggies
While your chicken and sauce are coming together, cook your rice and steam your favorite vegetables. This duo serves as the perfect base and side. Don’t forget to fluff the rice for that light and airy texture.
Plate and Garnish
Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy rice, with steamed carrots and broccoli on the side. Drizzle some extra sauce over the rice if you’ve made a bit more. Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a professional-looking garnish.
Additional Tips for Perfect Results
After trying this multiple times, here are some tips I swear by to make every bowl shine!
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet while cooking the chicken; cook in batches if needed.
- Always taste the sauce as it thickens to maintain balance. Adjust sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess, if needed.
- Preheat your skillet to ensure the chicken sears rather than steams.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic whenever possible; the difference in flavor is noticeable.
- For crunch lovers, sprinkle roasted cashews on top.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Presentation matters for an inviting meal! Arrange the chicken on a plate of rice alongside the veggies. Add a final drizzle of sauce and top with sesame seeds and green onions. For a cozy dinner vibe, serve in bowls with chopsticks for an authentic touch. Want more comforting bowl recipes? Try dishes like chili mac for variety!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown per serving so you know exactly what you’re getting in this nutritious recipe.
- Calories: 214
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 23.9g
- Fat: 8.3g
How to Store the Dish
Refrigerating
Keep leftovers in airtight containers, separating the rice and chicken to avoid sogginess. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze cooked chicken and sauce in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Remember to cook fresh rice and veggies when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat chicken and sauce on the stovetop or microwave on medium, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish has stolen my heart, and it might steal yours too!
- Quick and Convenient: It’s on the table in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable: From gluten-free to low-carb, the possibilities are endless.
- Balanced Flavor: Sweet, salty, and savory combine in perfect harmony.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal.
- Better Than Takeout: Homemade freshness wins every time!
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?
Absolutely, just steam or sauté them before adding to the bowl. Frozen broccoli works particularly well for this recipe.
What’s the Best Way to Make This Dish Spicy?
Stir in Sriracha or chili flakes while making the sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to your spice tolerance.
Is This Recipe Good as a Meal-Prep Option?
Yes! Divide the cooked chicken, rice, and steamed veggies into portioned containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days for quick weekday meals.
Can I Grill the Chicken Instead?
Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the teriyaki sauce. Slice it after grilling and toss it in the sauce for a delicious alternative.
What Other Sides Can I Serve?
Noodles, edamame, or these hearty Moroccan roasted potatoes make excellent sides to round out the meal.