Teriyaki Chicken with Rice Recipe
If you love a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet comes together in a flash, then you’re in for a treat with this Teriyaki Chicken with Rice. Imagine tender chicken glazed in a glossy, sweet, and savory teriyaki sauce, perfectly paired with fluffy white or wholesome brown rice. This dish brings restaurant-quality taste straight to your kitchen without any fuss. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, Teriyaki Chicken with Rice hits all the right notes for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first delightful step toward making Teriyaki Chicken with Rice. Each one plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken to the glossy sauce, creating a balanced dish that’s both comforting and vibrant.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless and skinless for quick cooking and easy slicing.
- Soy sauce: The salty backbone giving that distinct teriyaki flavor.
- Brown sugar or honey: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the soy sauce.
- Garlic and ginger: Freshly minced for aromatic depth and zing.
- Rice vinegar or mirin: Brings a subtle acidity that brightens the sauce.
- Sesame oil: Just a small drizzle for rich, nutty undertones.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the teriyaki glaze to that irresistible shiny finish.
- White or brown rice: Fluffy and warm, the perfect base to soak up all that teriyaki goodness.
- Sesame seeds: For a delightful crunch and a beautiful garnish.
- Green onions (optional): Adds a fresh, crisp pop of color and mild onion flavor.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken with Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking your choice of white or brown rice according to the package instructions. This allows the rice to be hot and ready by the time the chicken is glazed and plated. Cooking the rice perfectly fluffy sets a solid foundation for your Teriyaki Chicken with Rice bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Teriyaki Sauce
Combine soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, freshly minced garlic and ginger, a splash of rice vinegar or mirin, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Whisk these together until the sugar dissolves, delivering a balanced sauce that is sweet, savory, and aromatic. This homemade sauce elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a touch of oil. Add the chicken pieces and sear them until golden brown on each side, about 5 minutes per side depending on thickness. This step locks in moisture while building flavor through a nice caramelized crust—key for tender yet flavorful chicken.
Step 4: Glaze the Chicken
Reduce heat to medium and pour your teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the pan. Let it simmer gently, turning the chicken to coat every bit in the sticky, shiny glaze. If the sauce seems thin, stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it up, creating that perfect glossy finish you crave in Teriyaki Chicken with Rice.
Step 5: Serve Hot Over Rice
Once the chicken is fully cooked through and beautifully glazed, slice it against the grain and place it over your steamed rice. The combination of textures and flavors in this simple yet stunning presentation is what makes Teriyaki Chicken with Rice such a crowd-pleaser in any home kitchen.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken with Rice
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds generously over the top for that wonderful crunch and nutty aroma. Thinly sliced green onions add freshness and a dash of vibrant green that makes the dish pop visually and flavor-wise. A wedge of lime on the side can also offer a hint of zing if you like a little brightness with your meal.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy for a crisp, colorful contrast. Pickled cucumbers or a light Asian slaw also pair beautifully, adding a refreshing counterpoint that balances the richness of the teriyaki glaze.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, transform this into a teriyaki chicken bowl topped with avocado slices, shredded carrots, and crunchy peanuts for extra texture. Or, serve the chicken sliced thinly in lettuce wraps to create bite-sized Asian-inspired appetizers that your guests will love. The versatility of Teriyaki Chicken with Rice means you can tailor it to whatever mood you’re in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Teriyaki Chicken with Rice in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken and rice separately for best texture. Pack each in freezer-safe containers or bags, and they should keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the freshness and flavor.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat to keep the glaze intact and juicy. Reheat rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a sprinkle of water to prevent drying out. This way, your Teriyaki Chicken with Rice will taste almost as good as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and often more forgiving during cooking, making them a fantastic choice for Teriyaki Chicken with Rice. Just adjust cooking time slightly if they’re thicker.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Make sure to press the tofu well and pan-fry it until golden before glazing it with the teriyaki sauce for equally delicious results.
Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?
Definitely! The sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This makes your cooking process even faster when assembling Teriyaki Chicken with Rice on busy days.
What type of rice works best?
Both white and brown rice work wonderfully here. White rice offers a soft, neutral base, while brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Choose what you prefer or have on hand!
How can I make the dish gluten-free?
Simply swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. This little switch keeps the flavors true to the classic Teriyaki Chicken with Rice without any gluten concerns.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and joyful about Teriyaki Chicken with Rice. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug through your taste buds—sweet, savory, and effortlessly satisfying. I encourage you to try making this at home, experiment with your favorite sides and garnishes, and see just how quickly it becomes one of your go-to meals. Happy cooking!
