There’s something irresistibly comforting about a steaming bowl of teriyaki chicken with rice. The moment I pop that sweet and savory marinade into the fridge, I know the evening is on its way to becoming a delicious memory. Picture this: a quick marinade that infuses each juicy bite of chicken with a burst of flavor, all while the rice softens into fluffy perfection.
This dish emerged from a spontaneous craving one night when takeout was not an option, and I wanted something fresh and homemade. With just a handful of simple ingredients like soy sauce, mirin, and ginger, I transformed ordinary chicken breast into a delightful meal that my whole family devoured. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this teriyaki chicken is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table—and trust me, they won’t be able to resist asking for seconds! Get ready to whip up a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also reignites your love for home-cooked meals.
Why is teriyaki chicken with rice so loved?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory marinade creates a uniquely rich taste that transforms simple ingredients into a flavor-packed feast.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to devour in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Crowd Pleaser: This dish is a family favorite, certain to impress guests at dinner parties or casual get-togethers.
Versatile Preparation: Serve it over fluffy rice or toss in some veggies for a nutritious twist.
Healthier Alternative: Ditch the takeout and enjoy a homemade version that satisfies your cravings while keeping it wholesome.
By the way, if you’re interested in making this dish even more versatile, consider adding some seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition!
Teriyaki Chicken with Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1 lb chicken breast – lean and easy to cook, this is your protein star!
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – this salty powerhouse imparts umami depth to the dish.
• 1/4 cup mirin – adds a sweet touch and helps balance the flavors beautifully.
• 2 tbsp brown sugar – enhances the sweet and savory profile of your teriyaki chicken.
• 1 tbsp ginger – fresh ginger brings a zesty kick that invigorates the dish.
For Serving
• 2 cups rice – fluffy rice serves as the perfect base for soaking up that teriyaki sauce.
• 2 green onions – chopped for garnish, they add a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
Feel free to experiment with these ingredients, making this teriyaki chicken with rice a delightful weeknight go-to!
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken
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Cook the rice: Begin by cooking the rice according to package instructions, allowing it to steam until fluffy and tender. This will serve as a lovely base for your teriyaki chicken.
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Mix the marinade: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and ginger. This sweet and savory marinade will infuse your chicken with rich flavor—mix until well blended.
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Marinate the chicken: Place your chicken breast in the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
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Cook the chicken: After marinating, grill or sauté the chicken over medium heat until fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes per side. Look for a nice golden brown color to appear!
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Slice and serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, slice it into strips. Serve it over the fluffy rice and garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness and flavor.
Optional: Drizzle extra teriyaki sauce on top for an added flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken?
When you think of a satisfying meal, you can’t go wrong pairing this savory delight with complementary sides that will complete your dining experience.
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Steamed Broccoli: The crisp texture and mild flavor of steamed broccoli balance the sweetness of the teriyaki chicken perfectly, adding color and nutrition.
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Fried Rice: For a delightful twist, serve your teriyaki chicken over fried rice, complete with peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs. The added textures will satisfy the heartiest of appetites!
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a cool crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken, making every bite a delicious discovery.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy brings a tender-crisp experience, enhancing the meal with its lightness and subtle flavor.
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Miso Soup: Start your meal with a warm bowl of miso soup; its umami flavors harmoniously resonate with the teriyaki chicken, elevating your dining enjoyment.
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Green Tea: Pair your feast with a calming cup of green tea. Its earthy undertones cleanse the palate, leaving you refreshed and ready for another bite.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, opt for mango sticky rice; its sweetness will complement the teriyaki chicken, creating a delightful end to your meal.
Each of these pairings not only complements the teriyaki chicken with rice but also adds its unique flair, making for a complete and memorable dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These teriyaki chicken with rice preparations are a game changer for busy home cooks! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to soak up all those wonderful flavors. Simply mix your marinade and coat the chicken, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can cook the rice ahead of time; it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, store the rice in an airtight container and reheat it gently before serving. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, just grill or sauté the marinated chicken, slice it, and serve it over the reheated rice for a delicious and hassle-free dining experience!
Storage Tips for Teriyaki Chicken with Rice
Fridge: Store any leftover teriyaki chicken with rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you have more leftovers, feel free to freeze the chicken separately without rice for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or teriyaki sauce to keep it moist. Heat until entirely warmed through.
Wrapping: Ensure that the chicken and rice are tightly wrapped or sealed to prevent freezer burn, preserving the savory quality of your homemade dish.
Teriyaki Chicken with Rice Variations
Customizing your teriyaki chicken with rice allows you to personalize this dish to your taste buds! Dive in and explore these delightful twists.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for a fun heat that balances beautifully with the sweetness of teriyaki.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu, marinating it the same way for a plant-based version that everyone can enjoy.
- Sweet Pineapple: Toss in chunks of fresh pineapple during cooking to create a tropical twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas while cooking the chicken for a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.
- Coconut Rice: Substitute regular rice with coconut jasmine rice for an exotic touch that brings a creamy richness to each bite.
- Zesty Citrus: Squeeze fresh lime or orange juice over the finished dish right before serving to add a bright citrus flavor that elevates the taste.
- Herb Infusion: Top with fresh cilantro or basil after serving for a fragrant herbal twist that makes every bite exciting.
Helpful Tricks for Teriyaki Chicken
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Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, try marinating your chicken for 2-4 hours, or even overnight, giving the teriyaki chicken with rice even more depth.
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Grill for Flavor: If possible, grill the chicken instead of sautéing. This adds a smoky flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the marinade.
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Watch the Heat: Cook chicken on medium heat to avoid burning the marinade. If it caramelizes too quickly, it can become bitter.
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Tweak the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sugar or soy sauce levels according to your palate. Make the dish sweeter or saltier to match your ideal flavor.
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Serve Fresh: Always serve your teriyaki chicken immediately after slicing for the best texture and flavor. It tends to lose its juicy goodness when left to sit.
Teriyaki Chicken with Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for teriyaki chicken?
Absolutely! For teriyaki chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great due to their tenderness and quick cooking time. You can also try thighs for added juiciness!
How should I store leftover teriyaki chicken with rice?
Store any leftover teriyaki chicken with rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing, which helps maintain its delicious flavors.
Can I freeze teriyaki chicken?
Very! To freeze, first, let the chicken cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of teriyaki sauce to keep it moist.
What if my teriyaki chicken is tough after cooking?
If your teriyaki chicken turns out tough, it might be due to overcooking. Always cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and try marinating it longer next time—2 to 4 hours is ideal!
Is teriyaki chicken safe for pets?
While the chicken itself is safe for pets, the soy sauce in teriyaki can be high in sodium and should be avoided for pets. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing any human food with your furry friends.
Savory Teriyaki Chicken with Rice for Effortless Dining
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy and tender.
- In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and ginger.
- Place the chicken breast in the marinade, fully coating it. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill or sauté the chicken over medium heat until fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes per side.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips, serve over rice, and garnish with green onions.