When the dinner hour creeps up and you find yourself staring into the pantry, it’s often a battle between wanting something homemade and the allure of takeout. That’s where my Quick & Easy Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl comes to the rescue! Imagine biting into tender chicken glazed in a luscious teriyaki sauce, paired with fragrant jasmine rice and vibrant, crisp vegetables. Each mouthful bursts with a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to your favorite Asian restaurant, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
In a mere 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying, family-friendly meal that’s not only easy to make but also highly customizable. Whether you prefer a medley of colorful veggies or a twist with tofu instead of chicken, this dish invites creativity while keeping the essence of traditional teriyaki cuisine. Let’s dive into the recipe and elevate your weeknight dinners beyond the mundane!
Why is Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl a Must-Try?
Deliciously Simple: This recipe guarantees a hassle-free cooking experience, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Goodness: Tailor your bowl with various veggies or protein options, making it adaptable for everyone.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its balance of sweet and savory flavors ensures delightful satisfaction for both kids and adults alike.
Quick Preparation: Enjoy this meal on your table in just 30 minutes, allowing you to savor family time without the stress.
Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with fresh ingredients, this bowl offers a nutritious option compared to greasy takeout, keeping your family happy and healthy.
Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl Ingredients
For the Rice
• Jasmine Rice – A fragrant base that adds an aromatic touch to your bowl.
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – Tender and quick to cook, allowing the teriyaki flavors to shine; chicken thighs can also be used for added juiciness.
For the Vegetables
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing vegetables and chicken while adding flavor.
• Carrots – Provides a sweet crunch; slice thin for even cooking.
• Broccoli – Fresh and colorful; feel free to swap for your favorite veggies.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
• Soy Sauce – The heart of the sauce, delivering umami flavor; Kikkoman brand is recommended for authenticity.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens the sauce; can be substituted with honey or agave syrup.
• Honey – Balances the salty soy sauce with sweetness; optional for those watching their sugar intake.
• Fresh Garlic – Minced for maximum flavor, crucial for the teriyaki sauce.
• Ginger Paste – Adds warmth and depth; fresh ginger can also be a wonderful substitute.
• Sesame Oil – Cultivates a nutty flavor essential for authentic teriyaki sauce.
• Cornstarch – Needed to thicken the sauce for a glossy coat; mix with cold water to prevent clumps.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional addition for heat; adjust according to your preference.
For Garnishing
• Sesame Seeds – A delightful finishing touch that adds texture.
• Green Onions – Chopped for freshness and color, elevating your bowl’s presentation.
Treat your taste buds to this delicious Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl, which embodies a beautiful balance of flavors and customizable options for every palate!
How to Make Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl
Cook the Rice: Bring water to a boil in a medium pot, add jasmine rice, cover, and let it simmer until tender, about 15-18 minutes. The rice should be fluffy and fragrant when done.
Prepare Vegetables: While the rice cooks, slice the carrots and broccoli. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the vegetables with garlic powder and a sprinkle of salt until they’re tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, add the boneless, skinless chicken pieces. Sauté until they’re golden brown and cooked through, which should take around 6 minutes. The chicken should be no longer pink in the middle.
Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together water, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ginger paste, and sesame oil until well blended. This will be your delicious teriyaki sauce!
Thicken Sauce: Mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, and then add it to the pan with the chicken. Stir continuously and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely and coats the chicken.
Assemble Bowls: Serve the fluffy rice into bowls, top with the sautéed vegetables and teriyaki chicken, drizzling any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that extra flair.
Optional: Adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes if desired.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl?
Looking to elevate your Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl into a full, satisfying meal?
Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy, light rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a delightful crunch, complementing the flavors of the teriyaki bowl effortlessly. Perfect with a side of dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a cool, crisp contrast to the warm, savory teriyaki chicken. Toss it with rice vinegar and sesame seeds for an aromatic finish.
Edamame: These protein-packed pods offer a satisfying snack that balances the sweet and savory notes of the teriyaki. A sprinkle of sea salt enhances their natural flavor.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a delightful starter, with its umami taste preparing your palate for the rich teriyaki experience. Plus, it’s soothing and comforting!
Steamed Bok Choy: This tender, leafy green adds an elegant touch to your meal, enhancing both the flavor and nutritional value. A quick steam with a drizzle of sesame oil makes them irresistible.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Finish your meal with a light and refreshing fruit salad, incorporating seasonal fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries. Their natural sweetness will cleanse your palate delightfully.
Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea provides a soothing beverage that is not only refreshing but also complements the flavors of your dish, making it a satisfying choice for pairing.
Expert Tips for Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl
- Perfect Chicken: Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness, ensuring chicken reaches 160°F without cutting, which can dry it out.
- Cornstarch Magic: Gradually add cornstarch slurry while stirring to create a lump-free sauce, achieving that glossy finish for your Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl.
- Veggie Vigor: Sauté vegetables separately for ideal texture; overcooking can lead to mushy veggies that overpower the chicken.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the sauce to simmer adequately; if it seems too thick, adjust by adding water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
- Customize Wisely: Experiment with various proteins or veggies, but remember to maintain the balance of flavors for the best teriyaki experience!
Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this dish your own with these exciting customizations that will elevate your Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl experience!
Vegetable Swap: Replace broccoli with snap peas or bell peppers for a sweeter crunch. Their bright colors will make your bowl visually appealing too!
Tofu Twist: For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with firm tofu, sautéing it until golden brown. Tofu will soak up the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
Flavor Boost: Add pineapple or mango chunks to the mix for a tropical flair that complements the teriyaki sauce’s sweetness. They’ll add a juicy burst of flavor!
Noodle Base: Instead of rice, serve your chicken and veggies atop a bed of soba or rice noodles for a delightful twist. The noodles will soak up the sauce wonderfully!
Protein Variety: Chicken can be swapped out for shrimp or beef for a more substantial meal, adjusting cooking times to suit the chosen protein.
Heat Level: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra spicy kick! Adjust as needed to match your heat preference.
Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted cashews or sliced almonds for delightful crunch and nutty flavor. They’ll add additional texture to your bowl!
Creamy Sauce: For a richer sauce, stir in a spoonful of peanut butter or cashew cream just before serving. It adds creaminess and a delicious nutty undertone to the dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowls are perfect for meal prep aficionados looking to save time during busy weekdays! You can cook the jasmine rice and prepare your selected vegetables up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can marinate the chicken breast with the teriyaki sauce overnight for enhanced flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the marinated chicken until cooked through, reheat the rice and vegetables, and combine everything in a bowl. With just a few finishing touches, you’ll have a homemade meal that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh that day!
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl
Room Temperature: Leftovers can sit out for no more than 2 hours to ensure safety and freshness.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Microwave for 2 minutes or sauté in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a little water to keep the chicken moist.
Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for the Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl?
I highly recommend using jasmine rice for its delightful aroma and fluffy texture, which pairs perfectly with the flavors of the teriyaki sauce. However, if you prefer, you can also use brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
How should I store leftovers from the Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl?
Absolutely! Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for 2 minutes or in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I freeze the Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl for later?
Yes, it freezes quite well! To freeze, store in a sealed container, making sure to let the dish cool completely first. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat thoroughly before serving.
What should I do if my teriyaki sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find your sauce has thickened too much, simply add a bit of water while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time and stir well. This will help achieve that lovely glossy coating on your chicken without losing flavor.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce in the Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos instead. Both give a similar umami flavor without the gluten. Just be sure to adjust any additional salt in the recipe since they may differ in saltiness.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Very! The Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl is naturally dairy-free as it does not include any dairy ingredients. Just make sure any additional sauces or marinades you choose to include are also dairy-free. Enjoy the scrumptious flavors without any worries!
Delicious Sticky Chicken Teriyaki Bowl in Just 30 Minutes
Equipment
- - Medium pot
- - Large skillet
- small bowl
Ingredients
For the Rice
- 1 cup Jasmine Rice A fragrant base that adds an aromatic touch to your bowl.
For the Chicken
- 1 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Tender and quick to cook.
For the Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for sautéing vegetables and chicken.
- 2 medium Carrots Provides a sweet crunch; slice thin for even cooking.
- 2 cups Broccoli Fresh and colorful; feel free to swap for your favorite veggies.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce The heart of the sauce, delivering umami flavor.
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Sweetens the sauce; can be substituted with honey.
- 1 tablespoon Honey Balances the salty soy sauce with sweetness.
- 3 cloves Fresh Garlic Minced for maximum flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Ginger Paste Adds warmth and depth.
- 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil Cultivates a nutty flavor essential for teriyaki.
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Needed to thicken the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional addition for heat.
For Garnishing
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds A delightful finishing touch.
- 2 tablespoons Green Onions Chopped for freshness and color.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the Rice: Bring water to a boil in a medium pot, add jasmine rice, cover, and let it simmer until tender, about 15-18 minutes.
- Prepare Vegetables: Slice the carrots and broccoli. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the vegetables until they’re tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, add the boneless, skinless chicken pieces. Sauté until they're golden brown, about 6 minutes.
- Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together water, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ginger paste, and sesame oil until well blended.
- Thicken Sauce: Mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then add it to the pan with the chicken. Stir continuously and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Assemble Bowls: Serve fluffy rice into bowls, top with sautéed vegetables and teriyaki chicken, drizzling any remaining sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.