Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bake -

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults, then Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bake is just what you need. This wholesome casserole is packed with tender chicken, vibrant stir-fry vegetables, and fluffy rice, all wrapped in a savory teriyaki sauce that ties the dish together. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are numerous reasons to fall in love with the Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bake. First and foremost, it is incredibly versatile. You can swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Additionally, it can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep or busy weeknights. The ease of assembly also means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones. Finally, when baked, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is as flavorful as it is comforting.

Pro Tips for Making Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bake

To ensure that your Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bake turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

Use high-quality soy sauce: The flavor of your teriyaki sauce largely depends on the soy sauce you use. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Cook rice properly: Make sure your rice is fully cooked and fluffy before adding it to the casserole. This prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
Veggie variety: Feel free to mix in or substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or green onions. Frozen vegetables work well too!
Shredded chicken: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for a few hours before cooking.
Foil for moisture: Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking helps trap moisture, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bake:

1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 cup water
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp minced garlic
2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
1 lb boneless chicken breasts
12 oz stir-fry veggies (broccoli, carrots, peas)
3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make for easy cleanup.

Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a simmer to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 3: To thicken the sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Keep stirring until the sauce has thickened, then remove the pan from heat.

Step 4: Place the boneless chicken breasts in the greased baking dish and surround them with the stir-fry veggies. Pour 1 cup of the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring even distribution.

Step 5: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks right in the dish. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce and makes for easier serving.

Step 7: Add the cooked rice and the remaining teriyaki sauce (excluding the portion used for marinating) to the casserole. Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring that the rice, chicken, and veggies are evenly distributed.

Step 8: Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb the flavors of the sauce and brown slightly on top.

Step 9: Before serving, drizzle the remaining teriyaki sauce over the dish for an extra flavor boost.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even heat distribution.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, cover and cook directly from the fridge, allowing a few extra minutes for cooking time.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can easily substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or cooked shrimp to make this dish vegetarian or pescatarian-friendly.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to mix in or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or green beans to suit your taste.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bake is the perfect one-dish meal that offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a fantastic solution for busy weeknights and meal prep. The next time you’re in search of an easy and pleasing dinner idea, give this recipe a try. You’ll be rewarded with a comforting and delicious dish that everyone will love!