Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in a satisfying meal. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is quick to prepare and serves as a great weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch option. The tender chicken paired with crisp broccoli creates a nutritious balance, while the homemade teriyaki sauce adds a unique twist that elevates this bowl to something truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of cook time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and ginger creates an irresistible teriyaki glaze.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies, this bowl is both nutritious and delicious.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients or add your favorites for a personal touch.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra servings for easy reheating throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Steamer basket or pot with lid
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking without sticking, making cleanup easier.
- Steamer basket or pot with lid: Allows for perfectly steamed broccoli while keeping it vibrant and crisp.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 500g chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water, for slurry
For the Broccoli:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Salt, for boiling
- Optional: drizzle of sesame oil
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking the rice in salted water until fluffy. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, set it aside.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Meanwhile, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, which should take about 5 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and fully cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine all teriyaki sauce ingredients except for cornstarch. Pour this mixture into the skillet with cooked chicken. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) into the pan. Continue simmering until it thickens into a glossy glaze, about another minute.
Step 6: Assemble Your Bowl
Serve the teriyaki chicken over fluffy rice with steamed broccoli on the side. If desired, drizzle any leftover sauce on top for extra flavor.
Notes & Variations
Feel free to get creative! Add sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added texture. If you like some heat, spice things up by incorporating chili flakes or sriracha into your dish. You can also substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter alternative that still packs plenty of flavor.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl
Serving your Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.
Garnish Options
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
- Sliced Green Onions: Add fresh green onions to enhance the dish’s freshness and color.
Serving Platters
- Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a personal touch, making it easier for guests to enjoy.
- Family Style: Present the chicken, broccoli, and rice on a large platter for everyone to help themselves.
Accompaniments
- Extra Sauce: Offer additional teriyaki sauce on the side for those who like more flavor.
- Chili Sauce: Provide chili flakes or sriracha for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl
To make your Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Marinate Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes adds depth of flavor.
- Adjust Texture: Ensure the broccoli is tender-crisp; overcooking can lead to mushy results.
- Thicken Sauce Properly: Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the sauce to avoid lumps.
- Experiment with Rice: Try different rice varieties or grains for varied textures and flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl
Pairing side dishes with your Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some great options.
- Steamed Edamame: These protein-packed pods are easy to prepare and add a delightful crunch.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar complements the savory chicken well.
- Miso Soup: A light miso soup can warm up your meal, providing a comforting contrast.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes of teriyaki.
- Fried Rice: Enhance your meal by serving fried rice with vegetables as a heartier option.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw adds texture and brightness with its tangy dressing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes that can affect your dish.
- Skipping ingredient prep: Always prepare your ingredients before starting to cook. This ensures you won’t miss anything important while you’re busy at the stove.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through, but avoid overcooking, which can result in dryness. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
- Ignoring sauce thickness: Not letting the teriyaki sauce thicken properly can lead to a watery dish. Always add the cornstarch slurry and simmer until you achieve that glossy finish.
- Neglecting broccoli texture: Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrant color and crunch. Steam it just until tender-crisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Using incorrect rice-to-water ratio: The right ratio is key for fluffy rice. Always use one cup of rice to two cups of water for perfect results.
- Not customizing flavors: Don’t shy away from adding your own twist! Experiment with spices or toppings like sesame seeds to enhance flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let the chicken and broccoli cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from the bag.
Reheating Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to retain moisture.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of water if needed.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method helps maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing the Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl.
How can I make my Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl healthier?
You can swap out white rice for brown rice or quinoa for added fiber. Additionally, include more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What is the best way to store leftover Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.
How do I make a vegetarian version of this bowl?
To create a vegetarian bowl, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in any sauces.
Final Thoughts
The Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl is a delightful combination of flavors that makes it both satisfying and versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to make!
Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl
Savor the delightful Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl, a quick and nutritious meal that combines tender chicken and crisp broccoli with a homemade teriyaki sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a flavorful lunch option. With its sweet and savory glaze, each bite is a burst of flavor that will satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste, making it a family favorite. Whip this up in just 15 minutes for a delicious dinner that doesn’t compromise on health.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water, for slurry
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Salt, for boiling
- Optional: drizzle of sesame oil
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Cook the rice in salted water for about 10-12 minutes until fluffy; set aside.
- Steam the broccoli until tender-crisp, approximately 5 minutes; set aside.
- In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté seasoned chicken until golden brown (7-8 minutes).
- Mix teriyaki sauce ingredients (except cornstarch) in a bowl and pour into the skillet with chicken; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce for another minute.
- Serve chicken over rice with steamed broccoli on the side, drizzling extra sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing/Steaming
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Feel free to add sesame seeds or green onions as garnishes for extra flavor and texture. You can also substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.