Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl

Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this bowl is sure to impress. The sticky teriyaki sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and crisp broccoli, creating a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce is rich in flavor, adding a delicious twist that surpasses store-bought versions.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, this bowl offers a healthy option for any meal.
• Versatile Serving: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for different dietary needs and preferences.
• Customizable Options: Add your favorite toppings like sesame seeds or chili flakes to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Steamer basket
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Essential for sautéing the chicken evenly while allowing the teriyaki sauce to glaze beautifully.
• Steamer basket: Perfect for cooking broccoli while preserving its nutrients and vibrant color.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in your ingredients, leading to consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 500g chicken breast, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/2 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

Cook rice in salted water until fluffy. Follow package instructions for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

While the rice is cooking, steam broccoli until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Set aside once done.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a frying pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well. Pour this mixture into the pan with cooked chicken.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes. In another small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir into the pan and cook until thickened into a glossy glaze.

Step 6: Serve Your Bowl

Serve chicken over fluffy rice with steamed broccoli on the side. Drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce on top if desired.

Notes & Variations

Feel free to add sesame seeds or sliced green onions to enhance flavor. If you prefer some heat, consider adding chili flakes or sriracha. For a lighter meal option, swap traditional rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl

This Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Add Extra Crunch

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Sliced Green Onions: Garnish with fresh green onions for a burst of freshness and color.

Create a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with chicken, broccoli, and rice for a fun hand-held option.
• Nori Sheets: Roll the ingredients in nori sheets for a sushi-inspired twist.

Serve with Additional Sauces

• Spicy Sriracha: Add a drizzle of sriracha sauce for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the teriyaki.
• Peanut Sauce: Serve with peanut sauce on the side for those who love rich, creamy flavors.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl

To ensure your Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and crisp broccoli enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
• Marinate the Chicken: For added depth, marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Cook Rice Properly: Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch. This results in fluffier rice.
• Control Sauce Thickness: Adjust the cornstarch slurry amount based on how thick you want your teriyaki sauce to be.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce while cooking to adjust seasonings according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl

Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to complement your Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl.

1. Cucumber Salad: A light salad with cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil adds refreshing contrast.
2. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a protein-packed, tasty addition.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick stir-fried bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas create vibrant colors and textures on your plate.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comforting flavors that pair well with teriyaki dishes.
5. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro brings a healthy grain option alongside.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil add sweetness that complements the savory teriyaki glaze.
7. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors beautifully while adding bulk to your meal.
8. Seaweed Salad: A nutritious seaweed salad adds umami flavor along with health benefits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience with the Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Always check for doneness when it’s golden brown and cooked through.
• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken means missing out on flavor. Allow the chicken to soak in the teriyaki sauce for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
• Neglecting to Thicken Sauce: If you skip the cornstarch slurry, your sauce may be too thin. Always remember to stir it in for a glossy finish.
• Using Stale Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the dish’s taste. Ensure your ingredients are fresh for optimal flavor.
• Not Prepping Ingredients Ahead of Time: Improvising while cooking can lead to mistakes. Prepare all ingredients before starting to maintain a smooth cooking process.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl

• Place servings in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat with a splash of water or broth until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to the Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl.

What is a Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl?

A Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken coated in sweet teriyaki sauce, served with fresh broccoli over rice.

Can I use other vegetables in my bowl?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I prepare this bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep ingredients in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

The Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping rice for quinoa. Enjoy this sweet, savory dish any night of the week!