A warm, fragrant kitchen filled with the savory aroma of teriyaki sauce is a moment that brings comfort and anticipation. The Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, rich sauce, and fluffy rice, taking just 30 minutes to prepare. Its simplicity lies in the combination of fresh ingredients and a flavorful homemade sauce that elevates this dish to something special.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. It’s an excellent choice for meal prepping, as the cooked chicken and sauce can be stored for later, making it easy to reheat and enjoy throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The chicken becomes perfectly tender while absorbing the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
- It takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick meal option.
- The homemade teriyaki sauce adds rich flavor without the preservatives found in store-bought versions.
- It’s easily customizable with your choice of vegetables to suit any palate.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a delightful meal.
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- 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
For Serving
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Rice, for serving
- Steamed veggies, for serving
Use low sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken breasts can be replaced with thighs.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup.
- Use broccoli or bell peppers for your steamed veggies.
- Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl.
Heat Oil
Heat oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Allow it to heat thoroughly before adding chicken for the best browning.
Brown Chicken
Add cubed chicken and brown until cooked through, making sure it’s no longer pink inside. This process will take about 6-8 minutes.
Prepare Sauce
While the chicken is browning, prepare your teriyaki sauce. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch until smooth.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the chicken is browned and cooked through, pour your homemade teriyaki sauce into the skillet. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce has thickened, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
Serve
Serve immediately over white or brown rice, accompanied by your favorite vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a finishing touch.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 2 months, but rice may become mushy.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure the chicken is cubed evenly for uniform cooking.
- Stir the sauce continuously while it thickens to prevent burning.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness with more honey if desired.
- Add extra veggies to the pan in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the flavors.
- Serve during a busy weeknight dinner for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Enjoy as part of a meal prep for easy lunches throughout the week.
