Teriyaki Chicken Bowls Quick and Tasty Dinner Idea

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner that impresses? Teriyaki chicken bowls are your answer! They blend tender chicken, fresh veggies, and brown rice, all drenched in a sweet and savory sauce. This meal is simple to make and packed with flavor. Stick around for a step-by-step guide to whip up this delightful dish in no time. Let’s dive into the world of teriyaki goodness!
Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup brown rice, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup broccoli florets, bite-sized
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced into strips
– 1 medium carrot, julienned or cut into matchsticks
– 1/3 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey, or to taste
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Additional Seasoning
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced or grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (for thickening)
Garnishes
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– Chopped green onions for garnish
When making teriyaki chicken bowls, the right ingredients make all the difference. I start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and stay tender. I cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Next, I use brown rice as my base. It adds a nutty flavor and keeps the meal hearty. I rinse it well to remove excess starch. This helps it cook better and not become gummy.
Fresh vegetables are a must! I love adding broccoli for a nice crunch. Thinly sliced red bell pepper adds sweetness, while julienned carrots give a pop of color. Together, they make the dish vibrant and healthy.
For the sauce, I mix reduced sodium soy sauce with honey. It balances the saltiness and adds sweetness. I also add minced ginger and garlic for a warm, fragrant touch.
To thicken this sauce, I use cornstarch mixed with cold water. This step is key for that perfect glaze over the chicken.
Finally, I like to garnish my bowls with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. These little touches add flavor and make the dish look nice.
Remember, you can find the full recipe linked here. Enjoy crafting your teriyaki chicken bowls!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Rice
– Rinse brown rice.
– In a medium pot, boil 2 cups of water.
– Add rinsed rice to boiling water.
– Cover and reduce heat to low.
– Simmer for 45 minutes until water is gone.
– Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
Preparing the Chicken
– Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet.
– Add diced chicken pieces in a single layer.
– Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
– Ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching 165°F.
Making the Teriyaki Sauce
– In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup soy sauce and 2 tablespoons honey.
– Pour the mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
– Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
– Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to blend flavors.
Adding Vegetables
– Fold in 1 cup broccoli, 1 sliced bell pepper, and 1 julienned carrot.
– Stir everything together and cook for 4-5 minutes.
– Aim for a tender-crisp texture for the veggies.
Assembling the Bowls
– Place a generous scoop of brown rice in each bowl.
– Top the rice with chicken and vegetables for a colorful look.
Garnishing
– Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for crunch.
– Add chopped green onions for fresh flavor.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chicken
To cook chicken perfectly, aim for the right temperature. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and juicy. Avoid overcooking; it can make the chicken dry. Cook it just until golden brown and cooked through.
Enhancing Flavor
For the best teriyaki flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb the sauce better. If you like it sweeter, add more honey to the sauce. Taste the sauce before serving to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Quick Meal Prep Ideas
Pre-cooking rice and chicken saves time on busy nights. Cook a big batch of rice and store it in the fridge. You can also grill or sauté chicken ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers for easy access during the week. This way, you can whip up teriyaki chicken bowls in no time. For the full recipe, check the earlier sections!
Variations
Protein Substitutes
You can switch chicken for tofu or shrimp. Tofu gives a great vegetarian option. It will soak up the teriyaki sauce well. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice seafood twist. If you crave a heartier meat, try beef or pork. Thinly sliced beef cooks quickly and adds rich flavor. Pork can also work well with teriyaki sauce.
Vegetable Alternatives
Feel free to use seasonal vegetables. Carrots and bell peppers are classic, but others work too. Try zucchini, asparagus, or even mushrooms. For added greens, use spinach or snap peas. They add color and crunch to your bowl.
Sauce Modifications
You can make teriyaki sauce from scratch. Mix soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic to taste. This way, you control the sweetness and flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, look for tamari. It has a similar taste and works great in this recipe. You can also use coconut aminos for a unique twist.
For the full recipe, check the complete instructions above.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store your teriyaki chicken bowls in the fridge. Keep them at 40°F or lower. Use airtight containers for best results. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them before sealing.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your chicken bowls, use a microwave or stovetop. If using a microwave, cover the bowl to trap steam. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps warm the meal evenly. For stovetop, add a splash of water and heat on low. This keeps the rice fluffy and avoids soggy rice.
Freezing Options
You can freeze cooked teriyaki chicken bowls. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. They will last for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above to ensure a tasty meal.
FAQs
How do I make Teriyaki Chicken Bowls?
To make Teriyaki Chicken Bowls, start by cooking your rice. Rinse the brown rice under cold water. Then boil it and let it simmer until soft. While the rice cooks, heat sesame oil in a skillet. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown. Next, stir in minced garlic and ginger for flavor. Mix soy sauce and honey in a bowl, then pour it over the chicken. Cook for a few minutes, then thicken the sauce with cornstarch mixed in water. Finally, add your veggies and stir. Serve over rice for a colorful, tasty meal.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker for Teriyaki Chicken Bowls. Start by searing the chicken in a pan. This adds flavor. Then, add the chicken to the slow cooker with soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and veggies. Cook on low for about 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This method makes the chicken very tender and keeps the flavors strong.
What can I serve with Teriyaki Chicken Bowls?
You can serve Teriyaki Chicken Bowls with several sides. Steamed edamame adds protein. A simple cucumber salad brings crunch. You might also enjoy pickled carrots for extra zing. Rice paper spring rolls can be a fun side too. Feel free to mix and match to enhance your meal.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, Teriyaki Chicken Bowls can be healthy! Chicken provides lean protein. Brown rice offers fiber and nutrients. Fresh veggies add vitamins and minerals. You can adjust the sauce to lower sugar by using less honey. For a lighter meal, consider using more vegetables and less rice.
Where can I find the full recipe?
You can find the full recipe by following this link to the complete instructions and ingredient list.
In this blog post, I shared how to make easy Teriyaki Chicken Bowls from scratch. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and tips to perfect your dish. You can even explore various protein and vegetable substitutions.
Remember, these bowls not only taste great but also allow for creativity in your kitchen. Enjoy crafting a dish that everyone will love!
