Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl : A Weeknight Favorite

If you’re craving a meal that’s savory, sweet, satisfying, and fast, this Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is the answer. Juicy chicken glazed in a thick, homemade teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice with your favorite veggies—it’s the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping lunches for the week, this bowl delivers everything you want in a wholesome, flavorful dinner.

Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also an excellent option for chicken lunch bowls healthy enough for clean eating goals, while still feeling like a delicious treat. This is one of those easy Asian bowl recipes that will quickly become a regular on your meal plan.

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What Makes This Chicken Bowl Teriyaki Recipe Stand Out?

There are plenty of Asian inspired rice bowls out there, but this one strikes the perfect balance:

• Homemade teriyaki sauce that’s better than takeout
• Lean protein with perfectly seared chicken breast or thighs
• Customizable veggies to suit your taste or fridge contents
• Rice for bowls that satisfies any craving—white, brown, or even cauliflower
• Great for dinner or meal prep lunches all week long

Whether you’re looking for a post-gym protein rice bowl recipe or an easy weeknight win, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Asian-Inspired Rice Bowl

One of the best parts of this recipe is how simple the ingredient list is. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening)

For the Bowl:

• 2–3 cups cooked rice (white, jasmine, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• Steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds, green onions, red pepper flakes

These ingredients create a delicious and versatile chicken bowl teriyaki that works for lunch, dinner, or even next-day leftovers.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir well and bring to a low boil. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth, then slowly whisk into the sauce. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until thick and glossy.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden on the edges.

Step 3: Glaze the Chicken

Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and toss to coat. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes to let the sauce cling and caramelize slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Spoon cooked rice into bowls. Top with teriyaki chicken and steamed or sautéed veggies. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

You’ve got yourself a restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken rice bowl in under 30 minutes.

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How to Make a Thick and Glossy Homemade Teriyaki Sauce

The real star of this dish? That sticky, savory-sweet sauce. Here’s how to nail it every time:

• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt
• Simmer gently to let flavors develop
• Add a cornstarch slurry to thicken
• Finish with a touch of sesame oil for depth

This homemade sauce rivals any takeout joint—and it’s made without preservatives or artificial ingredients.

The Best Rice for Bowls – White, Brown, or Grain-Free Options

Your choice of rice can change the texture and nutrition of the meal. Here’s how to choose the best rice for bowls:

• White rice – Classic and fluffy, perfect with bold sauces
• Brown rice – Higher fiber, slightly nutty flavor
• Jasmine or basmati rice – Aromatic and elegant
• Cauliflower rice – Great for low-carb or keto options
• Quinoa – Gluten-free, protein-rich base for added nutrition

No matter what you choose, the teriyaki chicken will shine.

High Protein Chicken Teriyaki: A Bowl That Fuels You Right

Looking for a meal that satisfies and supports your health goals? This high protein chicken teriyaki bowl delivers:

• ~35 grams of protein per serving (with white rice)
• Lean chicken + complex carbs = steady energy
• Keeps you full longer—perfect for post-workout recovery
• Supports muscle repair and overall health

This is one of those rare protein rice bowl recipes that tastes like comfort food but performs like fuel.

Add Veggies to Make It a Balanced Veggie Teriyaki Bowl

What makes this a truly well-rounded meal? Veggies! They add color, crunch, and nutrients to balance the richness of the sauce. Try:

• Broccoli – A classic teriyaki companion
• Carrots – Shredded or sautéed for sweetness and color
• Bell peppers – Bright and crisp
• Snow peas or snap peas – Great texture
• Cabbage – Raw or lightly cooked for crunch

Mix and match your favorites to turn this into a full veggie teriyaki bowl that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Easy Asian Bowl Recipes: Meal Prep Tips and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping chicken lunch bowls healthy enough for the whole week.

To Meal Prep:

• Cook rice and let cool
• Make chicken and sauce in one batch
• Portion rice, veggies, and chicken into containers
• Add toppings and garnish just before eating

Storage Tips:

• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh
• For freezing, store the rice and chicken separately to maintain texture

These easy Asian bowl recipes make life simpler and tastier.

Toppings, Garnishes & Sauce Pairings for Extra Flavor

Elevate your bowl with bold garnishes and add-ons:

• Sesame seeds – Add crunch and nuttiness
• Chili flakes or sriracha – For heat
• Scallions or green onions – Fresh zing
• Pickled ginger – A tangy contrast
• Lime wedges – A pop of citrus
• Drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce – Always welcome

These little extras turn your meal from great to unforgettable.

Rice Bowl Recipes for Dinner: When and How to Serve

This teriyaki chicken rice bowl is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Lunchbox-friendly meals
• Post-workout fuel
• Casual dinner parties with an Asian theme
• Family dinners when everyone wants something different

Set out all components buffet-style and let everyone build their own bowl—fun, interactive, and customizable.

How to Customize Your Chicken Lunch Bowls Healthy and Flavorful

Make this bowl work for your dietary goals and preferences:

• Gluten-free – Use tamari instead of soy sauce
• Low-carb – Serve with cauliflower rice
• Vegan – Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh
• Whole30/Paleo – Use coconut aminos and honey (skip the cornstarch)
• Kid-friendly – Keep the sauce mild and offer plain rice and chicken separately

No matter your needs, there’s a way to make this one of your go-to rice bowl recipes for dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Rice Bowls

Don’t let simple mistakes sabotage your dinner:

• Overcooking the chicken – It becomes dry and chewy
• Undercooking rice – Results in hard or gummy texture
• Skipping the thickener – Sauce will be too runny
• Not seasoning the veggies – A dash of salt goes a long way
• Forgetting to rest the chicken – Let it sit for a few minutes to retain juices

Stay mindful and your bowls will come out perfect every time.

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FAQs About Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls and Meal Prep

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Yes, but homemade is fresher and lets you control ingredients and sugar.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze the chicken and rice separately for best results.

Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely—add sriracha, chili paste, or crushed red pepper to the sauce.

How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I serve it cold?
Yes, it also makes a great chilled lunch—like a teriyaki rice salad.

Conclusion: Why This Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl Will Be Your Go-To Dinner

Simple to make, endlessly customizable, and bursting with flavor, this Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is one of those recipes that will live on repeat in your kitchen. It’s the perfect fusion of sweet, savory, and satisfying—and it suits everyone from picky eaters to clean-eating fans.

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