This Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is a perfect comfort dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. With a perfect balance of tender chicken, sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, wholesome brown rice, and mixed vegetables, it’s an ideal meal for families looking for a wholesome dinner option that is simple to prepare and satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a dinner for friends and family, this casserole will surely be a hit. The sweetness of pineapple and the zing of ginger blend beautifully with the richness of the teriyaki sauce, while the chicken remains juicy and tender.
Ingredients with Quantities
Before you begin, gather all the ingredients for the Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ cup water
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
For the Casserole:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups cooked brown rice
- 32 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and peas)
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits, drained
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds, chopped green onions
Directions and Preparation Method
1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
The first step in making this dish is to prepare the teriyaki sauce. This is where all the savory flavors come together to create a rich and tangy sauce for your chicken and rice. In a small saucepan, combine the following ingredients: soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, ground ginger, olive oil, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, and the sauce begins to come to a boil.
As the sauce heats, create the cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a separate bowl. Once the sauce is boiling, slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the pan while stirring constantly. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. After the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside. This sauce is the key to bringing everything together in the casserole.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour about 1 cup of the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure that they are evenly coated with the sauce. This will allow the chicken to marinate and absorb all the flavors.
Bake the chicken for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred.
3. Prepare the Vegetables and Rice:
While the chicken is baking, cook the frozen mixed vegetables according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves heating them in a pot with some water until they’re tender. Once they’re done, set them aside.
If you haven’t already, cook your brown rice. You can either use a rice cooker or cook it on the stovetop according to the package directions. The brown rice adds a nice, nutty flavor and texture to the casserole, making it more filling and nutritious.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Once the chicken is shredded and the vegetables and rice are prepared, it’s time to assemble the casserole. In the same 9×13-inch baking dish that you used to cook the chicken, combine the shredded chicken, cooked vegetables, pineapple tidbits, and cooked brown rice.
Pour most of the remaining teriyaki sauce over the top of the mixture, reserving a small amount to drizzle on top just before serving. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly combined. This is the stage where you’ll get a glimpse of how delicious the casserole will be, as the sauce coats the rice, chicken, and vegetables, making each bite flavorful.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Now that everything is combined, place the baking dish back in the oven. Bake the casserole for an additional 15 minutes, or until it is heated through. This step ensures that the flavors meld together and that the casserole is piping hot when it’s ready to serve.
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This resting period lets the sauce thicken further and makes it easier to serve.
6. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, drizzle the reserved teriyaki sauce over the top of the casserole. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. These garnishes not only enhance the flavor but also add a nice visual appeal to the dish.
Serve the casserole warm, and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors that come from the combination of teriyaki sauce, chicken, vegetables, and rice. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can use white rice if you prefer, but brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber to the dish. Brown rice also holds up better in casseroles and helps to make the dish more filling.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used in place of frozen ones. Simply chop your choice of vegetables and steam or sauté them until tender. Broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers work wonderfully in this casserole.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They will provide a slightly richer flavor and a more tender texture, making the casserole even more juicy.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover it with foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, just place it in the oven and follow the baking instructions.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is an easy and delicious dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple and honey with the savory flavors of soy sauce and ginger. This casserole is a one-pan wonder that is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or serving guests at a gathering. With minimal preparation, it delivers maximum flavor, making it a go-to dinner for families looking for something healthy and satisfying. The balance of chicken, rice, vegetables, and teriyaki sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser, and the addition of pineapple brings a unique twist that takes this dish to the next level. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with a side salad, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.