Welcome to my world of mouthwatering flavors and delightful culinary adventures!
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to one of my all-time favorites chicken meal prep recipes: Chicken Teriyaki Bowls.
Brace yourself for a taste sensation like no other as tender chicken dances in a savory teriyaki sauce.
While an array of fresh veggies adds a burst of color and nutrition. Are you ready to indulge in a meal that’s both convenient and satisfying?
Picture this: you stroll through your front door after a long day, and the aroma of a wholesome feast engulfs your senses.
With chicken teriyaki bowls, you can transform this dream into reality in a matter of minutes.
Each mouthful will teleport you to a world of perfectly-balanced flavors.
(Leaving you pondering why you ever accepted anything inferior)
In this article, I’ll be your guide on an epic cooking journey.
From marinating the chicken to stir-frying those glorious veggies and assembling the bowls with finesse, I’ve got you covered every step of the way.
So buckle up, grab your apron, and let’s dive into a week’s worth of irresistible prepared meals. (Your taste buds will be taken by surprise!)
What Are the Ingredients Of A Chicken Teriyaki Bowl?
To embark on this culinary escapade, gather the following vibrant ingredients:
- Chicken breast: Tender and lean, this boneless, skinless marvel will be the star of our bowls.
- Teriyaki sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, this magical elixir of soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic will make your taste buds sing!
- Rice (white or brown): Take your pick based on personal preference or dietary needs; both white and brown rice play perfectly with the teriyaki flavors.
- Assorted vegetables: Get creative and add a splash of color and nutrients. Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers. (feel free to mix and match!)
- Sesame seeds: These teeny-tiny gems bring a nutty crunch to the party. Toasted sesame seeds are the ultimate game-changer.
- Green onions: Finely chopped for freshness and that mild, tantalizing oniony goodness.
- Olive oil: A splash of this liquid gold will work wonders—stir-frying veggies and grilling or pan-searing the chicken will be a breeze.
Remember, these ingredients are just the starting point. Feel free to customize your bowls to fit your wildest desires and dietary needs.
Now that your ingredients are assembled, let’s dive into the marvelous world of preparing this quick and easy recipe.
Chicken Teriyaki Bowls
Course: MainCuisine: JapaneseDifficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes25
minutes400
kcalIngredients
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
2 cups assorted vegetables (broccoli florets, sliced carrots, diced bell peppers)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
2 green onions, finely chopped
Directions
- Start by marinating the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour in the teriyaki sauce.
Close the bag securely and gently massage it to coat the chicken evenly.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor. - In the meanwhile, follow the cooking instructions on the rice package. Once cooked, set it aside.
- Get the vegetables ready by washing and cutting them into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Warm up some olive oil in a generously sized skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add the vegetables to the pan and stir-fry them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are crisp-tender.
Take out the vegetables from the pan and keep them aside. - In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Extract the chicken from the marinade and put it in the hot skillet.
Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through. Discard any remaining marinade. - After it’s cooked, move the chicken to a cutting board and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Then, thinly slice the chicken.
- Assemble the Chicken Teriyaki Bowls: Start by dividing the cooked rice evenly among four bowls.
Arrange the sliced chicken and stir-fried vegetables over the rice. - Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top of each bowl for added flavor and freshness.
- Serve the Chicken Teriyaki Bowls immediately and enjoy!
These chicken teriyaki bowls are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a meal prep superhero.
Prepare them in advance, store them in handy meal prep containers, and conquer the week with deliciousness at your fingertips.
Say goodbye to dull meals and hello to a burst of homemade goodness!
Versatile Variations and Customizations for your chicken teriyaki bowls
Chicken teriyaki bowls are versatile, allowing you to tailor the recipe to suit your dietary preferences and restrictions.
Here are some suggestions for modifying and adding your own personal touch to this family meal prep recipe:
Modify for Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free: If you’re gluten-conscious, fear not!
Choose a gluten-free teriyaki sauce from the store or whip up your own using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Low-Sodium: Keep that sodium in check by opting for a reduced-sodium or low-sodium teriyaki sauce.
Your taste buds will still dance but with a healthier beat.
- Spicy Kick: Craving some heat for your intimate dinner for two?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha sauce to the teriyaki marinade. (Spiciness level: dialed up!)
Fresh Vegetable and Healthy Protein Options
- More Vegetables: Let your creativity soar! Go beyond the classic broccoli and carrots.
Snap peas, zucchini, mushrooms, or baby corn—let them join the veggie party for extra flavor and excitement.
- Protein Alternatives: Embrace the plant-based path by replacing it with tofu or tempeh for a delightful vegetarian twist in your meal prep journey.
Feeling adventurous? Dive into the sea with shrimp or thinly sliced salmon.
- Fruit Infusion: Add a touch of fruity sweetness to your bowls.
Pineapple chunks or mango slices mingling with the veggies will make your taste buds sing a tropical serenade.
Vegetarian or Vegan Version of your chicken teriyaki bowls
- Vegetarian: Bid chicken farewell and welcome tofu, tempeh, or your favorite meat substitute to the spotlight.
Marinate them in the teriyaki sauce before stir-frying or grilling to soak up that irresistible flavor.
- Vegan: Embrace a plant-powered rendition by ensuring your teriyaki sauce is vegan-friendly for your meal prep endeavors.
(Free from animal-based ingredients).
Swap honey for agave syrup or maple syrup in the teriyaki sauce. Tofu or tempeh will be your protein heroes, and skip any animal-based toppings.
Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly when experimenting with different proteins and vegetables to achieve perfection on your plate.
These delightful creations effortlessly combine convenience and flavor, making them the ultimate mealtime heroes.
Whether you’re gluten-free, seeking a low-sodium option, or craving a spicy twist.
Chicken teriyaki bowls are your versatile companions, ready to adapt and satisfy your every whim.
Unleash your inner chef and explore a universe of possibilities.
Play with an array of colorful veggies, and experiment with alternative proteins like tofu or tempeh.
Or infuse a touch of tropical paradise with succulent pineapple or juicy mango.
But it doesn’t stop there. These bowls hold the secret to a stress-free meal prep experience.
They save precious minutes, allowing you to savor more moments of enjoyment and still indulge in delicious, nourishing meals.
So, my fellow food enthusiasts, embrace the convenience, revel in the flavors.
And elevate your meal prep game to new heights with the incredible chicken teriyaki bowls.
Prepare yourself for an epicurean escapade that will tempt your palate and leave you yearning for additional flavorsome experiences.
Bon appétit!
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FAQ
Are Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Healthy?
Teriyaki chicken and rice can be a healthy option when prepared with the right ingredients.
Opt for lean chicken breast, brown rice, and a homemade teriyaki sauce with reduced sodium and sugar.
Load up on colorful vegetables to boost the nutritional value and fiber content.
With mindful portion sizes and balanced ingredients, teriyaki chicken and rice can be a delicious and nutritious meal.
What to Serve with Chicken Teriyaki?
Chicken teriyaki pairs well with a variety of delicious sides. Consider serving it with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers for added nutrition.
A side of edamame or a fresh green salad can provide additional texture and freshness.
For a complete meal, serve it with a side of fluffy white or brown rice or even noodles for a satisfying dining experience.
Is Teriyaki Chicken Chinese or Japanese?
Teriyaki chicken is a Japanese dish that has gained popularity worldwide.
The term “teriyaki” originates from the Japanese language, where “Teri” signifies a lustrous or gleaming texture, and “yaki” refers to grilling or broiling.
It involves marinating chicken in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce, then grilling or broiling it to perfection.
While teriyaki-inspired dishes can be found in Chinese cuisine, teriyaki chicken itself is rooted in Japanese culinary tradition.
What is Teriyaki Sauce Used For?
Teriyaki sauce is a versatile condiment that adds incredible flavor to various dishes.
Its sweet and savory profile works well as a marinade for proteins like chicken, beef, or tofu, imparting a rich umami taste.
It can also be used as a glaze for grilling or broiling, a dipping sauce for dumplings or sushi, or even as a stir-fry sauce to elevate the flavors of vegetables and noodles.
What Soy Sauce is Best for Teriyaki?
For the best teriyaki sauce, opt for a high-quality soy sauce. Traditional Japanese soy sauce, such as Shoyu or Tamari, is recommended for an authentic taste.
Look for options labeled as “low sodium” or “reduced sodium” to control salt intake.
If you prefer a gluten-free version, choose Tamari soy sauce, which is typically made without wheat.
Experiment with different brands to find the soy sauce that suits your palate.