Rice & Bowls

Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1/2 cup (120ml) teriyaki sauce; 1 cup (180g) short-grain Japanese rice; 2 tbsp (30ml) sesame oil; 1 tsp (5g) grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup (115g) mixed vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas; 1/4 cup (30g) chopped scallions, for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp (30g) soy sauce; 1 tbsp (15g) sake; 1 tbsp (15g) mirin

By Nina Lee · June 18, 2026 · Rice & Bowls

Prep15 min

Cook15 min

Total30 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I had a Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl at a small Japanese restaurant near my home. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, the tender chicken, and the fluffy rice all came together to create a dish that I couldn't get enough of. Since then, I've been on a mission to recreate that same flavor and experience in my own kitchen.

After months of experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, I finally landed on a recipe that I'm excited to share with you. This Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is a quick and easy meal that's perfect for weeknights, and it's packed with all the flavors and textures that I love.

The key to this recipe is in the balance of flavors. The teriyaki sauce is sweet and savory, with a depth of flavor that comes from using a combination of soy sauce, sake, and mirin. The chicken is tender and juicy, with a nice char from cooking it in a hot skillet. And the rice is fluffy and flavorful, with a hint of sesame oil and scallions.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Asian-inspired cuisine, and it's also a great option for those looking for a quick and easy meal. The best part is that it's ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if you'd like any variations or substitutions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes.
The teriyaki sauce is sweet and savory, with a depth of flavor that comes from using a combination of soy sauce, sake, and mirin.
The chicken is tender and juicy, with a nice char from cooking it in a hot skillet.
The rice is fluffy and flavorful, with a hint of sesame oil and scallions.
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Asian-inspired cuisine.
It's a great option for busy weeknights, and can be made with a variety of ingredients and substitutions.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is in the balance of flavors and textures. The teriyaki sauce is sweet and savory, with a depth of flavor that comes from using a combination of soy sauce, sake, and mirin. The chicken is tender and juicy, with a nice char from cooking it in a hot skillet.

The cooking technique is also important. Cooking the chicken in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil helps to create a nice crust on the outside, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. And cooking the rice with a combination of water and sesame oil helps to add flavor and texture.

Finally, the resting time is crucial. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few key ingredients, including chicken breasts, teriyaki sauce, rice, and sesame oil. You can find these ingredients at most Asian markets or well-stocked supermarkets.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to look for high-quality items that are fresh and flavorful. For example, choose chicken breasts that are plump and have a good texture, and opt for short-grain Japanese rice for the best flavor and texture.

1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, boneless and skinlessChoose chicken breasts that are plump and have a good texture. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
1/2 cup (120ml) teriyaki sauceYou can make your own teriyaki sauce using a combination of soy sauce, sake, and mirin, or use store-bought sauce.
1 cup (180g) short-grain Japanese riceShort-grain Japanese rice is the best choice for this recipe, as it's sticky and clingy. You can also use other types of rice, but the flavor and texture may be different.
2 tbsp (30ml) sesame oilSesame oil has a distinct nutty flavor and is often used in Asian cuisine. You can also use other oils, such as vegetable or canola oil, but the flavor may be different.
1 tsp (5g) grated gingerFresh ginger adds a nice spice and warmth to the dish. You can also use ground ginger if you don't have fresh ginger on hand.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in many Asian dishes, and adds a nice depth of flavor to the recipe.
1 cup (115g) mixed vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and snap peasYou can use a variety of vegetables in this recipe, so feel free to get creative and use your favorites.
1/4 cup (30g) chopped scallions, for garnishScallions add a nice freshness and flavor to the dish. You can also use other herbs, such as cilantro or basil, if you prefer.
Salt and pepper to tasteUse salt and pepper to taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
2 tbsp (30g) soy sauceSoy sauce is a fundamental ingredient in many Asian dishes, and adds a nice depth of flavor to the recipe.
1 tbsp (15g) sakeSake is a type of Japanese rice wine that adds a nice flavor and aroma to the dish. You can also use dry white wine or omit it if you don't have it on hand.
1 tbsp (15g) mirinMirin is a type of Japanese sweet wine that adds a nice sweetness and flavor to the dish. You can also use sugar or honey if you don't have mirin on hand.

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWhiskSpatulaRice cooker or medium saucepan

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

1
In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sake, and mirin to make the marinade.
2
Add the grated ginger and garlic to the marinade and whisk to combine.
3
Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4
Preheat a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5
Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the preheated skillet, and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it's cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Typically, you'll want to combine 1 cup of rice with 1 3/4 cups of water in a medium saucepan, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
8
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they're tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9
To assemble the bowls, place a scoop of cooked rice in the bottom of a bowl, followed by a few slices of the chicken and some of the mixed vegetables. Drizzle with a little teriyaki sauce and garnish with chopped scallions.
10
Serve immediately and enjoy!
11
If you want to add some extra flavor to your dish, you can sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts over the top of the bowls.
12
You can also customize your bowls with your favorite toppings, such as diced green onions, sliced avocado, or pickled ginger.

Expert Tips

Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
Use a thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Don't overcook the vegetables, as they can become mushy and unappetizing.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it, as this allows the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay tender.
Experiment with different types of protein, such as tofu or shrimp, for a variation on the recipe.
Add some heat to your dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha into the marinade.
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers.
To make the dish more substantial, serve it with a side of miso soup or a simple green salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not letting the chicken rest before slicing it, which can cause the juices to run out and the chicken to become dry.
Overcooking the vegetables, which can make them mushy and unappetizing.
Not using a thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Not whisking the marinade ingredients together well, which can cause the flavors to not be evenly distributed.
Not cooking the rice according to the package instructions, which can cause it to be undercooked or overcooked.
Not customizing the dish to your taste, which can cause it to be bland or unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some heat to your dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha into the marinade.
Experiment with different types of protein, such as tofu or shrimp, for a variation on the recipe.
Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, for a vegetarian version.
Add some crunch to your dish by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts over the top of the bowls.
Customize your bowls with your favorite toppings, such as diced green onions, sliced avocado, or pickled ginger.
Use different types of rice, such as brown rice or cauliflower rice, for a variation on the recipe.
Add some extra flavor to your dish by using different types of oil, such as coconut oil or avocado oil.

What to Serve With Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

This Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of sides to make it more substantial. Some options include miso soup, a simple green salad, or a side of steamed vegetables.

You can also customize your bowls with your favorite toppings, such as diced green onions, sliced avocado, or pickled ginger. And don't forget to add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Miso soupSimple green saladSteamed vegetablesPickled gingerSliced avocadoDiced green onions

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This recipe makes 4-6 servings, and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat, simply microwave the dish for 1-2 minutes, or until it's warmed through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven, if you prefer.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it's easy to make ahead and reheat as needed. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights, or for meal prep on the weekends.

When reheating, be sure to not overheat the dish, as this can cause the chicken to become dry and the vegetables to become mushy. Instead, heat it until it's warmed through, then serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

You can use either chicken breasts or chicken thighs for this recipe, depending on your preference. Chicken breasts will yield a leaner dish, while chicken thighs will be more moist and flavorful.

Can I use different types of protein in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of protein, such as tofu or shrimp, for a variation on the recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and method accordingly.

How do I ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature?

Use a thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F. You can also check the chicken for doneness by cutting into it and checking that the juices run clear.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Simply reheat the dish when you're ready to serve it.

What are some variations on this recipe?

You can customize this recipe to your taste by adding different toppings, such as diced green onions or sliced avocado. You can also experiment with different types of protein, such as tofu or shrimp, or use different types of rice, such as brown rice or cauliflower rice.

How do I store and reheat this recipe?

Let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze. To reheat, simply microwave the dish for 1-2 minutes, or until it's warmed through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven, if you prefer.

Can I use different types of oil in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of oil, such as coconut oil or avocado oil, for a variation on the recipe. Just be sure to choose an oil with a high smoke point, as it will be used for high-heat cooking.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making this recipe?

Some common mistakes to avoid when making this recipe include not letting the chicken rest before slicing it, overcooking the vegetables, and not using a thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

The Full Recipe

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