When it comes to quick, flavorful, and satisfying meals, Chicken Teriyaki and Rice reigns supreme. This beloved dish combines juicy chicken with a glossy, sweet-savory teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy white or brown rice. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or serving dinner for the whole family, this recipe checks every box: it’s easy, healthy, and packed with bold flavor.
Why Chicken Teriyaki and Rice is a Go-To Weeknight Favorite
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One-pan friendly: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor
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Customizable with veggies, grains, and toppings
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Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
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Sweet, tangy, and umami-rich flavor profile
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Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters
What Is Teriyaki Sauce?
Teriyaki sauce is a traditional Japanese glaze made with a combination of soy sauce, mirin (or rice vinegar), sugar, and ginger. It’s known for its shiny appearance and balance of sweet, salty, and savory elements. When cooked down, it thickens into a sticky, caramelized coating that clings perfectly to the chicken.
Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki and Rice
For the Teriyaki Chicken:
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1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
For the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce:
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½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
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3 tablespoons brown sugar
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2 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry to thicken)
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Optional: 1 tablespoon mirin or sake for deeper flavor
For Serving:
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2 cups cooked white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice
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1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
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2 stalks green onions, sliced
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Optional: steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas
How to Make Chicken Teriyaki and Rice at Home
1. Cook the Rice
Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions. You can also use a rice cooker or Instant Pot for fluffier results. Keep it warm and covered until ready to serve.
2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and whisk until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Set aside.
Tip: Taste and adjust—add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter, or more vinegar for tang.
3. Sear the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping occasionally until fully cooked and lightly golden. Add garlic during the last minute of cooking to prevent burning.
4. Coat in Teriyaki Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the teriyaki sauce over the meat. Toss to coat all pieces evenly. Let the sauce simmer for another 2–3 minutes, allowing it to glaze and cling to the chicken beautifully.
5. Assemble and Serve
Spoon a generous portion of rice into each bowl or plate. Top with the glossy teriyaki chicken, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Add steamed veggies on the side for extra nutrients and crunch.
Variations to Try
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Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: Add bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini for a full stir-fry meal
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Spicy Teriyaki: Stir in a teaspoon of sriracha or red chili flakes to the sauce
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Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist
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Grilled Version: Marinate chicken in teriyaki sauce, grill it, then glaze with extra sauce
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Meal Prep Bowls: Store chicken, rice, and veggies in containers for a full week of ready-to-eat lunches
Tips for Success
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Use chicken thighs for juicier texture and more flavor
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Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry—it creates that iconic sticky texture
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Always cook sauce separately and combine with chicken later to avoid burning sugars
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Double the sauce recipe if you like your rice well-sauced too
Healthy and Nutritious
This dish is not only delicious—it can be a balanced, nutrient-rich meal. Here’s how to make it even healthier:
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Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for added fiber
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Reduce sugar and use low-sodium soy sauce
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Add extra vegetables for more vitamins and antioxidants
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Use air-fried or grilled chicken for lower fat content
Perfect Pairings
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Miso soup or edamame for a Japanese-inspired starter
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A side of seaweed salad
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A glass of iced green tea or sparkling cucumber water
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For dessert, try mango sticky rice or mochi
Conclusion: The Ultimate Chicken Teriyaki Bowl
Chicken Teriyaki and Rice is the kind of meal that brings comfort, nutrition, and bold flavor to your dinner table. With minimal ingredients and maximum satisfaction, it’s no surprise that this dish is a staple in kitchens around the world. Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this easy homemade version rivals your favorite takeout, with the bonus of being fresher, healthier, and more customizable.
