Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s equal parts comforting, flavorful, and easy to make, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe. This Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, sticky-sweet teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice into a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good casserole, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.
Let’s dive in, shall we?
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Trust me, having all your ingredients prepped and ready will make this process a breeze.
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (you can use breasts, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful)
- 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice (or any long-grain rice you have on hand)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (this adds depth to the dish)
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought is fine, but homemade is even better—more on that later)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn work beautifully)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, but it adds a lovely nutty flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, chop your onion and mince the garlic. If you’re using homemade teriyaki sauce, now’s the time to whip it up. (Pro tip: A simple teriyaki sauce can be made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a splash of cornstarch slurry to thicken it. It’s worth the extra 5 minutes!)
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them through—they’ll finish in the oven. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. This step builds the flavor base for your casserole, so don’t skip it!
4. Combine Everything
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir it around to coat it in the oils and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and teriyaki sauce, then stir in the frozen vegetables. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, making sure they’re partially submerged in the liquid.
5. Bake to Perfection
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Let it bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. If you want a bit of browning on top, remove the cover during the last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with a little extra teriyaki sauce if desired, then sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Pro Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Homemade Teriyaki Sauce: If you have the time, make your own teriyaki sauce. It’s fresher, less salty, and you can adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Rice Choice: Jasmine rice is my go-to because it’s fragrant and slightly sticky, but basmati or even brown rice will work too. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Vegetable Swap: Not a fan of frozen veggies? Use fresh! Just chop them into small, even pieces so they cook through.
- Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for a quick meal later.
Why This Recipe Works
This Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. It’s hearty, flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup—what’s not to love? The teriyaki sauce infuses every bite with a sweet-savory umami flavor, while the rice soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken and broth. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one dish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be as enjoyable as eating, and this recipe delivers on both fronts. It’s simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress even the pickiest eaters. So, the next time you’re craving something cozy yet exciting, give this Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole a try. I promise, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Now, go grab that skillet and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.
