A One-Pan Comfort Dish
If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dinner, this Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is a must-try! With tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich teriyaki glaze, this dish is both hearty and simple to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this casserole is a family-friendly meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks together in a single dish, making cleanup a breeze.
- Flavor-Packed: The teriyaki sauce infuses every bite with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
- Nutritious and Filling: With protein, veggies, and rice all in one dish, it’s a complete meal on its own.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for meal prep, and leftovers taste just as good the next day.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 diced onion
- Water (as needed)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
- Measuring cups
- Aluminum foil
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, rinsed rice, teriyaki sauce, frozen mixed vegetables, diced onion, and water. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before removing the foil. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water and warm in a pan over medium heat.
Variations and Recipe Swaps
- Protein Swap: Use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts, or try shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
- Rice Options: Substitute brown rice for extra fiber, but increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
- Vegetable Variations: Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms can be used instead of frozen.
- Sauce Enhancements: Mix in a tablespoon of honey, ginger, or garlic for more depth of flavor.
Best Food and Drink Pairings
- Side Dish: A crisp Asian-style slaw or steamed edamame pairs well with the rich teriyaki flavors.
- Beverages: Enjoy with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing glass of iced green tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant rice?
Instant rice is not recommended as it may overcook and become mushy. Stick with long-grain rice for best results.
What if my rice isn’t fully cooked?
If the rice is still firm, add a splash of water, cover, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time if cooking from cold.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional teriyaki sauce contains soy sauce, which has gluten. Use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delicious, no-fuss dinner that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or just treating yourself to a cozy, homemade meal. If you give this recipe a try, let us know how it turned out!
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