This Teriyaki Chicken Bowl is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender chicken coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice with crisp, colorful vegetables. The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates an irresistible umami depth that makes every bite incredibly satisfying. Garnished with sesame seeds and fresh green onions, this dish brings a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal right to your home kitchen.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility—swap white rice for brown rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a healthier twist. Adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season, or add a protein boost with tofu or shrimp. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick, delicious dinner, this Teriyaki Chicken Bowl is guaranteed to be a hit!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over the chicken and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Divide the cooked rice into bowls and top with the teriyaki chicken.
- Add steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and sliced red bell pepper.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls: A Flavorful and Nutritious Meal
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls bring together the rich, umami-packed flavors of Japanese cuisine in an easy-to-make and satisfying meal. Juicy, bite-sized chicken pieces are coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, and ginger, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Served over a fluffy bed of rice and complemented by fresh, colorful vegetables, this dish is both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.
The Origins of Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki is a classic Japanese cooking technique that involves grilling or pan-frying proteins, typically chicken, beef, or fish, while basting them with a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. The word “teriyaki” itself comes from “teri”, meaning luster or shine, and “yaki”, meaning grilled or broiled. This cooking method became widely popular worldwide, particularly in Hawaii and the United States, where variations of teriyaki sauce often include additional ingredients like pineapple juice or garlic.
This Teriyaki Chicken Bowl recipe is inspired by the traditional Japanese flavors but adapted for home cooking. Instead of grilling, the chicken is cooked in a skillet, allowing it to absorb all the flavorful sauce while remaining tender and juicy.
Why This Recipe Is the Best Choice
-
Quick & Easy to Make
- Ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or quick meal prep sessions.
- Uses simple pantry ingredients, so you don’t need any special trip to the grocery store.
-
Healthier Than Takeout
- Most restaurant teriyaki chicken dishes contain added preservatives and excessive sugar. This homemade version allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the sweetness and sodium to your preference.
- You can make it gluten-free by swapping soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
-
Perfect for Meal Prep
- Can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for lunch or dinner.
- Easily customizable – switch up the vegetables, swap the rice for quinoa, or even use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
-
Balanced and Nutritious
- High in protein from the chicken, which keeps you full and satisfied.
- Loaded with fiber from vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, supporting digestion and overall gut health.
- A good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, making it a well-rounded meal for energy and muscle recovery.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
-
Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. This homemade sauce will give the dish an authentic sweet-savory depth.
-
Cook the Chicken
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them in a hot skillet until browned. This step ensures a juicy texture and helps lock in the flavors.
-
Thicken the Sauce
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer. Add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce and coat the chicken evenly.
-
Assemble the Bowl
- Place a scoop of cooked white or brown rice in a bowl.
- Add steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers for crunch and color.
- Spoon the glazed teriyaki chicken over the top.
-
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations to Elevate This Dish
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
- Extra Crunch: Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for added texture.
- Boost the Protein: Mix in scrambled eggs or edamame for a protein-packed meal.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick and Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✔ Healthier Than Takeout – Less sodium, sugar, and no preservatives compared to restaurant versions.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
✔ Customizable – Swap out the protein, adjust the sweetness, or add extra veggies.
✔ Packed with Flavor – A homemade sauce that delivers sweet, savory, and umami in every bite.
Nutritional Benefits of Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s nutritionally balanced, making it a great choice for a wholesome meal.
- High in Protein – Chicken provides a lean protein source that supports muscle growth and keeps you feeling full.
- Rich in Fiber – Brown rice and vegetables like broccoli and carrots help with digestion.
- Healthy Carbohydrates – Provides long-lasting energy, perfect for busy days.
- Packed with Antioxidants – Garlic, ginger, and bell peppers contain immune-boosting compounds.
- Low in Unhealthy Fats – The dish is cooked with minimal oil, making it a heart-healthy option.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what makes this dish so flavorful:
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for juicy bites.
- Soy Sauce – The base of teriyaki sauce, adding deep umami flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier version.
- Honey & Brown Sugar – Natural sweeteners that create a rich caramelized glaze.
- Garlic & Ginger – Essential aromatics that enhance the sauce with warmth and depth.
- Rice Vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Cornstarch Slurry – Helps thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.
- Vegetables – Broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers add crunch, color, and nutrients.
- Rice – White rice for a classic feel or brown rice/quinoa/cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
- Sesame Seeds & Green Onions – Garnish for added flavor and presentation.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. This homemade sauce has the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a pan over medium heat and add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Thicken the Sauce
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and let the sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes, ensuring each piece is coated in the glossy glaze.
4. Assemble the Bowls
- Scoop cooked rice into bowls.
- Add steamed or sautéed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots).
- Top with teriyaki-glazed chicken.
5. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for extra flavor and texture. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ways to Customize This Dish
💡 Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for a kick.
💡 Low-Carb Option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
💡 Extra Protein: Mix in scrambled eggs, shrimp, or tofu.
💡 More Veggies: Try mushrooms, snap peas, zucchini, or bok choy.
💡 Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Best Ways to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
✔ As a Bowl: Classic with rice and vegetables.
✔ With Noodles: Swap rice for soba or udon noodles.
✔ In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb, fresh alternative.
✔ As a Meal Prep Option: Store in containers for grab-and-go lunches.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Teriyaki chicken freezes well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat in a pan with a splash of water.
Perfect Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
🌿 Miso Soup – A light and comforting side.
🥗 Asian Slaw – Crunchy and tangy for a refreshing contrast.
🍙 Steamed Edamame – A protein-packed appetizer.
🥟 Dumplings or Gyoza – A delicious side treat.
🍵 Green Tea – The perfect drink pairing for a Japanese-inspired meal.
Conclusion
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls are easy, customizable, and bursting with flavor. This homemade version is a healthier alternative to takeout, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.
Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight meal, meal prep lunches, or family dinner, this dish will always be a hit. Make it your own by swapping proteins, adjusting the sweetness, or adding your favorite veggies.
🔥 Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home! 🍛🥢