Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Chicken Teriyaki Bowl is not only incredibly flavorful but also versatile and simple to prepare. With a balance of protein, vegetables, and rice, it makes for a well-rounded meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. The homemade teriyaki sauce is sweet, tangy, and savory, adding depth to the dish. It’s a great choice for meal prep as well, making it easy to enjoy a healthy and filling meal throughout the week.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups steamed rice (white or brown)
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional for added tang)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the teriyaki sauce and bring it to a simmer. If you like a little extra tang, you can add rice vinegar to the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Once the sauce has thickened, return the chicken to the skillet. Coat the chicken with the sauce and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
While the chicken is simmering, steam the broccoli and prepare the rice.
To assemble the bowls, start with a layer of rice at the bottom. Add a portion of broccoli and julienned carrots on top of the rice. Slice the teriyaki-coated chicken and place it on top of the veggies and rice.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of the dish. Simply press and cube the tofu or tempeh before pan-frying.
Add More Veggies: You can customize the bowl with more vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
Spicy Teriyaki: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, microwave the bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I make the teriyaki sauce from scratch?

Yes, making teriyaki sauce at home is easy and you can control the sweetness and saltiness to your preference. Simply combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a bit of cornstarch for thickening.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a great alternative and adds a nutty flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for brown rice, as it takes a bit longer to cook than white rice.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. They are a great option if you prefer dark meat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce or make your own, this recipe can be made gluten-free. Just make sure the soy sauce you use is gluten-free.

Can I freeze the Chicken Teriyaki Bowl?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the rice and veggies. To reheat, defrost the chicken and sauce, then cook the rice and veggies fresh.

How do I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?

If you like a thicker sauce, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water (1 tablespoon cornstarch to 2 tablespoons water) to the simmering sauce to thicken it up.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just be sure to steam or cook them properly before assembling the bowls.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply add the chicken, teriyaki sauce, and seasonings, then cook on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender. Finish by adding steamed rice and veggies before serving.

How do I make this bowl spicier?

To add heat, drizzle sriracha sauce over the top of the bowl or stir in chili flakes into the teriyaki sauce.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken, sauce, rice, and veggies in advance. Store everything separately and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

The Chicken Teriyaki Bowl is a perfect weeknight meal that brings bold flavors and a satisfying combination of ingredients. It’s easy to customize and can be made ahead for meal prep, making it a practical and delicious option for busy days. Whether you make it as a quick dinner or prepare it for lunch throughout the week, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household.