This Teriyaki Chicken & Rice Casserole is the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. It’s a delicious and filling meal that you can easily prepare in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. The tender chicken, fluffy rice, and mixed vegetables are all coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce that elevates the flavors of the dish. It’s a one-pan meal that requires minimal effort and is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients with Quantities
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown): Rice serves as the hearty base for this casserole. Whether you choose white or brown rice, both work well in this dish. Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber, while white rice will provide a lighter texture.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: The chicken is the protein source in this dish. Using shredded chicken is a great way to make use of leftovers or rotisserie chicken, saving you time in the kitchen.
- 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn): This mix adds color, texture, and essential nutrients to the casserole. You can use any frozen vegetable blend you prefer or fresh vegetables if available.
- ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium): Soy sauce brings the classic savory umami flavor to the dish. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce helps control the salt content.
- ¼ cup honey: Honey provides sweetness to balance the salty and savory elements of the teriyaki sauce. It also adds a bit of sticky richness to the casserole.
- 2 tbsp sesame oil: This oil adds depth and a nutty, aromatic flavor to the sauce. It’s a key component of traditional teriyaki sauce.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water): This mixture thickens the sauce and gives it a silky consistency that coats the rice and chicken beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must for adding a fragrant and bold flavor to the sauce. It complements the soy sauce and sesame oil perfectly.
- 1 tsp ginger, grated: Fresh ginger gives the dish a slight spiciness and warmth, which contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the honey.
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional): Garnishing with sesame seeds adds a crunchy texture and enhances the sesame flavor in the dish.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that balances the richness of the casserole.
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to ensure that the casserole doesn’t stick to the dish during baking.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Cook your rice according to the instructions on the package. Whether you’re using white rice or brown rice, ensure that it’s cooked and fluffy before moving on to the next step. Once done, set the rice aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and grated ginger. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the ingredients until they’re well combined. Allow the sauce to come to a simmer.
Next, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Slowly pour this into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously. Let the sauce cook for another 2 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and frozen mixed vegetables. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the mixture and stir everything together, ensuring that the rice and chicken are well-coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the rice, chicken, and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to keep it moist while baking, and place it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and discard the foil. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for added crunch and flavor. Serve the casserole warm, and enjoy the comforting and flavorful dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes! If you don’t have chicken on hand, you can substitute it with cooked turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just bake it for the same amount of time, but you may need to add a few extra minutes if it’s been refrigerated.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the soy sauce. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce alternative) instead of regular soy sauce.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Definitely! If you prefer fresh vegetables, you can use any combination of your favorites, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them briefly before adding them to the casserole.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like your teriyaki chicken to have a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or a small amount of sriracha to the sauce. Adjust the spice level to suit your preference.
Conclusion
Teriyaki Chicken & Rice Casserole is a satisfying and simple meal that’s packed with flavor. With tender chicken, savory rice, and sweet teriyaki sauce, this casserole is sure to please the whole family. It’s a versatile dish that you can customize with your choice of protein and vegetables, making it easy to adapt to what you have on hand. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Don’t forget to top it off with sesame seeds and green onions for a little extra crunch and color. So next time you’re craving a comforting, easy-to-make dish, this Teriyaki Chicken & Rice Casserole will hit the spot perfectly. Enjoy!