This teriyaki chicken rice bowl is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Tender chicken is glazed with a homemade teriyaki sauce and served over fluffy white rice, topped with fresh veggies and sesame seeds. It’s an easy, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Key Information:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Number of servings: 4
- Serving size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 60g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 450g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 60ml (¼ cup) soy sauce
- 60ml (¼ cup) mirin
- 60ml (¼ cup) sake (optional, or use additional water)
- 30ml (2 tbsp) honey or sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water, for thickening)
For the Rice Bowl:
- 300g (1½ cups) jasmine or white rice
- 480ml (2 cups) water
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 50g (½ cup) edamame (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for drizzling)
Detailed Method of Preparation:
Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 480ml (2 cups) of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and keep warm.
Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), honey, ginger, and garlic. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil if needed. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- In the same skillet, pour the teriyaki sauce mixture. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
Glaze the Chicken:
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet, tossing it in the thickened teriyaki sauce to coat each piece evenly. Let the chicken absorb the sauce for 2-3 minutes before removing from heat.
Assemble the Rice Bowls:
- Divide the cooked rice between four bowls. Top each bowl with glazed teriyaki chicken slices. Add fresh cucumber slices, julienned carrots, and edamame (if using) on the side.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Drizzle with a bit of sesame oil for added flavor, if desired.
Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious teriyaki chicken rice bowl!
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Use chicken thighs: They remain juicy and tender, but chicken breasts work if you prefer a leaner option.
- Marinate for extra flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking to deepen the flavors.
- Don’t overcook the sauce: Keep an eye on the teriyaki sauce as it thickens quickly once the cornstarch is added.
- Customize the veggies: You can swap out or add more veggies like broccoli, avocado, or bell peppers based on what you like or have on hand.
- Meal prep friendly: This rice bowl makes great leftovers. Store the rice, chicken, and veggies separately, and assemble fresh for an easy next-day meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce? Absolutely. Store-bought teriyaki sauce works in a pinch, but the homemade version offers a fresher, more customizable flavor.
- How can I make the chicken crispy? For extra texture, lightly coat the chicken in cornstarch before pan-frying for a crispy exterior.
- What rice works best for this bowl? Jasmine or short-grain white rice works well, but you can also use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
- Can I grill the chicken instead? Yes! Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.
With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh ingredients, this teriyaki chicken rice bowl is an easy yet satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Japanese cuisine right to your table. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving it for a quick dinner, this bowl is bound to become a favorite!