Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole

A Flavorful and Easy One-Dish Meal

This Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp vegetables, all coated in a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner, offering a balance of protein, grains, and veggies in one simple dish. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and great for meal prep!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience – Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Homemade Teriyaki Sauce – A healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought versions.
• Great for Meal Prep – Leftovers store and reheat well for lunches throughout the week.
• Customizable – Swap out vegetables and proteins to suit your preferences.
• Kid-Friendly – The sweet and savory sauce is a hit with children and adults alike.

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Ingredients

For the casserole:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup frozen peas
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• ½ cup diced green onions
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the teriyaki sauce:

• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together soy sauce, water, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
2. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, carrots, peas, and bell pepper.
3. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until heated through.
3. Garnish with diced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

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Recipe Variations

• Swap the Protein – Try using shrimp, tofu, or beef instead of chicken.
• Change the Veggies – Add broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for variety.
• Make It Spicy – Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Use Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb option, substitute cauliflower rice.
• Try Quinoa – Swap out rice for quinoa for an extra protein boost.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce tastes fresher and allows you to control the sweetness and sodium levels.

What type of rice works best?

Both white and brown rice work well, but brown rice will add extra fiber and nutrients. You can also use jasmine or basmati for a fragrant touch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or miso soup make great accompaniments.

Can I cook the chicken in the casserole instead of pre-cooking it?

It’s best to use pre-cooked chicken to ensure even cooking. If using raw chicken, cut it into small cubes and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Covering the dish with foil while baking helps retain moisture. Adding a little extra sauce before reheating also helps.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13-inch pans for larger portions.

What other toppings can I add?

Try adding crushed peanuts, crispy fried onions, or a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce for extra flavor.

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Conclusion

This Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is a fantastic dish for busy weeknights, meal prep, or potlucks. With its delicious homemade sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a complete meal in one pan. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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