Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl

Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl is a delicious and colorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. This recipe combines tender chicken strips with vibrant vegetables and a flavorful teriyaki sauce, all served over fluffy rice. It’s not only easy to make but also customizable, making it suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this tasty meal in no time.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory kick that elevates the dish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies like broccoli and bell peppers, this bowl is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Options: You can easily swap chicken for tofu or shrimp to suit your preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for leftovers or packed lunches.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet or wok
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cooking spoon or spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet or wok: Ensures even cooking and prevents food from sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Measuring cups: Provides accurate measurements for ingredients, ensuring consistent flavor every time.
• Whisk: Helps to mix sauces smoothly, preventing lumps in your teriyaki sauce.

Ingredients

Prep time: 15 min
Cooking time: 20 min
Servings: 3
Calories per serving: ~560 kcal

For the Rice

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
• 3 cups water
• Pinch of salt

For the Chicken & Veggies

• 400 g chicken breast, sliced into strips
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (or olive oil)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup sweet corn
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for topping)

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 4 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Cook rice in salted water until fluffy. Keep warm while you prepare the chicken and veggies.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
1. Add chicken strips to the pan.
2. Season lightly with salt.
3. Cook until golden brown.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Toss in broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, and sweet corn into the pan.
1. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.

Step 4: Prepare Teriyaki Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch slurry.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and veggies in the pan.
1. Cook until the sauce thickens.
2. Serve over warm rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

You can swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for variation. If you like some heat, add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick. This dish stores well in the fridge for up to four days!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl

Serving your Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl can elevate the meal experience. Consider these suggestions to enhance flavor and presentation.

Garnish Ideas

• Green Onions: Sprinkle additional chopped green onions for a fresh taste and vibrant color.
• Sesame Seeds: Add toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and added nutrition.

Sauce Variations

• Spicy Mayo: Drizzle spicy mayo on top for a creamy, spicy twist.
• Chili Oil: A few drops of chili oil can introduce an exciting heat to the dish.

Serving Style

• Bowl Style: Serve in deep bowls to keep the ingredients warm and allow for easy mixing.
• Layering: Layer rice first, then chicken and veggies, finishing with sauce on top for an appealing look.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl

Perfecting your Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl involves a few key techniques to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and quality chicken make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Marinate Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken strips in soy sauce and ginger before cooking.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: Ensure the sauce is thick enough to coat the chicken and vegetables by adjusting cornstarch as needed.
• Cook at High Heat: Stir-fry over medium-high heat for quick cooking that retains crispness in veggies.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is a nutritious snack that complements the main dish.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing adds crunch and acidity.
3. Miso Soup: Warm miso soup offers umami flavors that balance out sweetness from teriyaki sauce.
4. Steamed Dumplings: Soft steamed dumplings provide a delightful texture contrast to the rice bowl.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and are great when roasted with a hint of sesame oil.
6. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing brings brightness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can result in less flavor. Always let it sit in the teriyaki sauce for at least 15 minutes.
• Overcooking the veggies: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Stir-fry just until they’re tender-crisp for the best texture.
• Neglecting rice preparation: Failing to rinse rice can lead to a sticky texture. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear before cooking.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: Subpar soy sauce can ruin the dish’s flavor. Opt for a good quality brand for the best results.
• Not adjusting sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, not adding enough honey or brown sugar might disappoint your taste buds. Taste and adjust as needed!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Use parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a delicious Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl.

Can I use tofu instead of chicken?

Yes! Tofu is a great plant-based alternative that absorbs flavors well. Just press it beforehand and marinate like you would with chicken.

What vegetables work best?

Feel free to mix and match! Carrots, snap peas, and zucchini also complement this dish beautifully.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce, ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep and store all components separately and assemble when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

The Teriyaki Chicken & Veggie Rice Bowl is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. This dish makes a satisfying meal any day of the week, so give it a try!