This Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is a tasty one-dish wonder! Made with juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a sweet teriyaki sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
I love how easy this meal is to whip up—just mix, pour, and bake. Perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy with little fuss. Plus, the leftovers taste even better! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Rice: I recommend using white or jasmine rice for a fluffy texture. If you’re looking for something healthier, brown rice or cauliflower rice work perfectly too. Just adjust cooking times if using brown rice since it takes longer to cook.
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is a lean choice, but you can easily substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option. For a vegetarian twist, try tofu or chickpeas instead!
Broccoli and Carrots: These veggies add color and nutrition, but feel free to swap them for any favorites! Snap peas or bell peppers are great options. Frozen veggies work in a pinch, just add them to the casserole while still frozen.
Teriyaki Sauce: Store-bought sauce is convenient, but you can make a quick homemade version with soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Green Onions: They add a fresh crunch. However, you might use shallots or chives if you don’t have green onions on hand.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Properly in a Casserole?
Cooking chicken in a casserole needs some attention to ensure juicy, fully-cooked pieces. Here’s what to do:
- Start with evenly diced chicken pieces; this helps them cook at the same rate.
- Combine chicken with the sauce and rice before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Cover the dish with foil initially to keep moisture in, then uncover to get a nice, slightly crispy top.
By following these tips, you’ll have tender and flavorful chicken in your casserole every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or jasmine)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (optional)
Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to cook. With just a little bit of mixing and some baking time, you’ll have a warm, comforting dish to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it ready for baking your casserole perfectly.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked rice, diced chicken, broccoli florets, diced carrots, and sliced green onions. Stir them together gently to mix everything up nicely.
3. Make the Sauce:
In another bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger if you’re using it. This flavorful sauce will add a delicious taste! Pour it over the rice and chicken mixture, and stir until everything is well-coated with the sauce.
4. Season and Transfer:
Now, season your mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Once seasoned, transfer everything into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly so it cooks nicely.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake it for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. The kitchen will smell fantastic!
6. Add a Little Crisp:
After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will help the top brown slightly and enhance the flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven, and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with some extra sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like, then serve and enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking! Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave using the defrost setting. This helps ensure even cooking in the casserole.
What Can I Substitute for Broccoli and Carrots?
Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand! Bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini are great alternatives. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking. If you’re using softer vegetables like spinach, add them in the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
