Description
A sweet-savory, family-friendly Teriyaki Chicken Casserole featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful sautéed vegetables all coated in a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce. This comforting bake is perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights, with optional cheese and garnishes to elevate the dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
- 1½ cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced thin
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Toppings (Optional)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare it for the casserole.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and fresh grated ginger. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water). Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens, then remove it from heat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets, thinly sliced carrots, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp, which keeps their vibrant color and fresh texture.
- Assemble: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken breast, sautéed vegetables, and three-quarters of the prepared teriyaki sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution. Transfer this mixture into the greased baking dish, then pour the remaining teriyaki sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). If you choose to add cheese, remove the foil after the initial 20 minutes, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Once baked, garnish the casserole with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added texture and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this wholesome and delicious meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and time-saving.
- Substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
- Add pineapple chunks for a delightful sweet tropical flavor contrast.
- For a crispier cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Low-sodium soy sauce keeps the dish balanced in saltiness and healthier.
- Make sure to sauté vegetables just until tender-crisp to preserve nutrients and color.
