I can hardly contain my excitement as I share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you: Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl! This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it never fails to evoke wonderful memories. I remember the first time I made it — I was hosting a dinner party for some friends, and I wanted to impress them with something special. Little did I know, this savory, sweet, and slightly sticky meal would become a regular request at all get-togethers!
There’s just something so comforting about a rice bowl, topped with juicy chicken and slathered in that delectable homemade teriyaki sauce. It’s quick to throw together on a weeknight, yet fancy enough to serve at get-togethers. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies — what’s not to love?
What’s in Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl?
Chicken: The star of the show! I usually opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work just fine if that’s your preference. You can even try this recipe with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based kick!
Teriyaki Sauce: A magical mix of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar that gives this dish its rich flavor. I like to use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness; I mean, we want flavor, not a sodium rush, right?
Rice: The comforting bed for your teriyaki chicken! I typically use jasmine rice, but feel free to substitute with brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly!
Vegetables: Whether it’s bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots, the added crunch and color make the dish visually appealing and even more nutritious. I love adding fresh scallions on top for that pop of flavor!
Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful nutty flavor and a beautiful finishing touch.
Is Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl Good for You?
Let’s dive into the nutritional goodness of this dish!
Chicken: Packed with protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. If you’re using skinless options, you’re also reducing saturated fat intake.
Vegetables: Bursting with vitamins and minerals, they provide fiber, which promotes digestive health. Plus, they keep this dish colorful and vibrant!
Rice: Depending on your choice, brown rice offers whole grains and more fiber, while jasmine rice is tasty and fragrant. Both provide carbohydrates to fuel your day!
However, keep an eye on the amount of teriyaki sauce you use, as it can be high in sugar. Moderation is key!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
– 1 cup uncooked jasmine or brown rice
– 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1/4 cup mirin (or rice vinegar, if you can’t find mirin)
– 1/4 cup sake (or water)
– 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots)
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
– Optional: red pepper flakes for some heat
Serves: 4
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl?
1. Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, so you can multitask!
2. While the rice is cooking, mix the teriyaki sauce: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar or honey. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil, then cook the chicken thighs or breasts until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb all that delicious flavor.
5. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until they’re tender but still crisp.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it among four bowls. Top each bowl with the teriyaki chicken and veggies, then sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Tips and Serving Suggestions:
– Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Stir-fried or roasted vegetables also work beautifully.
– If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or select spicier veggies.
– For an added twist, serve with pickled ginger or a side of edamame for a complete meal!
I hope you give this Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl a try! It’s a dish that’s sure to please both family and friends alike. Don’t forget to share your experience — I can’t wait to hear about your delicious creation! Happy cooking!
