Are you looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that combines sweet, savory, and umami goodness? This Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or family dinners. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a delectable homemade teriyaki sauce, this dish offers a wholesome, balanced meal in every bite. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also uses common pantry ingredients. Let’s dive into the details of this crowd-pleasing recipe.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 3/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
For the Casserole:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 2 cups steamed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, snap peas, or your choice)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
- Gradually add the slurry to the saucepan while stirring. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken in a skillet or bake in the oven until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and set aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Steam or blanch your vegetables until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Set aside and keep warm.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Layer the shredded chicken on top of the rice.
- Add the steamed vegetables as the next layer.
- Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce evenly over the entire dish. Use a spatula to gently spread the sauce, ensuring everything is coated.
5. Bake and Serve:
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the edges to crisp slightly.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired, before serving.
Tips for Success
- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or microwaveable rice.
- Customize the vegetables based on your family’s preferences.
- For an extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the teriyaki sauce.
This Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is the ultimate one-dish meal that brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for meal prep or sharing with loved ones, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you’re a busy parent or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it hot, enjoy the fusion of flavors, and bask in the compliments from your dining companions. Bon appétit!