Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that comes together in one satisfying dish. This recipe combines tender chicken with a rich teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice and topped with fresh vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that can be prepped in advance, this Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is sure to please.
Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
For the Teriyaki Chicken:
- 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for absorbing the teriyaki sauce.
- 1/2 cup Soy Sauce: Adds the essential salty, umami base for the sauce.
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness with sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Honey: Enhances the sweetness and gives the sauce a glossy finish.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, savory depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger, grated: Provides a warm, slightly spicy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil: For a nutty, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons Water: Helps thicken the sauce.
For the Rice Bowl:
- 2 cups Cooked White Rice: Serves as the base for the bowl.
- 1 cup Broccoli Florets: Adds color and nutrients to the bowl.
- 1 cup Carrot Slices: Provides crunch and sweetness.
- 1/2 cup Sliced Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: For garnish, adds a subtle crunch and flavor.
- Optional: Sriracha or Chili Flakes: For those who like a bit of heat.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and blend the ingredients. Set the sauce aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until it is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Thicken the Teriyaki Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the prepared teriyaki sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Stir the cornstarch and water mixture, then slowly add it to the sauce, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer the sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Chicken to the Sauce
Slice the cooked chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet with the teriyaki sauce. Stir to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken is simmering, steam the broccoli florets and carrot slices until they are tender but still crisp. This usually takes about 5 minutes. You can steam the vegetables in a steamer basket over boiling water or in the microwave with a little water.
Step 6: Assemble the Rice Bowls
Divide the cooked white rice into bowls. Top each bowl with a generous portion of the teriyaki chicken. Arrange the steamed broccoli and carrot slices around the chicken. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls hot. For an extra kick, drizzle with sriracha or sprinkle with chili flakes. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite.
Variations and Customizations
Vegetarian Teriyaki Rice Bowl
Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Marinate and cook the tofu or tempeh in the same way as the chicken, ensuring it soaks up the teriyaki sauce.
Low-Carb Option
For a low-carb version, swap the white rice with cauliflower rice. It provides a similar texture with fewer carbs and calories.
Add More Vegetables
Feel free to add more vegetables to your bowl. Snap peas, bell peppers, and zucchini all make excellent additions, adding more color and nutrients.
Make It Spicy
If you enjoy spicy food, increase the heat by adding more chili flakes to the sauce or by mixing sriracha into the teriyaki sauce.
Nutritional Benefits of Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
High in Protein
The chicken provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The vegetables in this dish, particularly broccoli and carrots, are loaded with vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber.
Balanced Meal
This dish offers a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a well-rounded meal that will keep you satisfied.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used instead of thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, especially when simmered in the teriyaki sauce.
Q2: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The teriyaki sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it gently before using it with the chicken.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the rice. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q5: What can I use instead of soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari or coconut aminos are great substitutes for soy sauce in the teriyaki sauce.
Conclusion
The Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is a delicious, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your liking, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe offers a quick and nutritious option that the whole family will love.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that comes together in one satisfying dish. This recipe combines tender chicken with a rich teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice and topped with fresh vegetables. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that can be prepped in advance, this Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is sure to please.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 Tbsp. packed light brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp. rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp. sesame oil (optional)
- 1 tsp. ground ginger
- 2 tsp. minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp. honey
- 3 tsp. cornstarch
- sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
- rice for serving
- steamed veggies for serving
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet on medium high heat.
- Add cubed chicken and brown chicken until cooked through and it is no longer pink.
- While Chicken is browning, prepare your teriyaki sauce! In a medium size mixing bowl whisk together soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch.
- Once Chicken is browned and cooked through, add your homemade teriyaki sauce to your skillet and continue to cook stirring until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve immediately with white or brown rice and vegetables of your choice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 200