There’s something undeniably comforting about gathering around the table with a baked dish that’s bubbling and fragrant straight from the oven. Teriyaki Chicken Casserole brings together savory chicken, crisp-tender vegetables, fluffy rice, and a homemade teriyaki sauce that soaks into every bite. It’s the kind of satisfying, colorful casserole that easily becomes a family staple—wholesome, packed with flavor, and just as perfect for a busy weeknight as for sharing with guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, no-fuss ingredient list—each component adds something special, whether it’s texture, vibrant color, or a pop of bold flavor. Don’t underestimate the power of each element for making this Teriyaki Chicken Casserole unforgettable!
- Cooked brown rice: Provides a nutty, hearty base that soaks up all that lovely teriyaki sauce.
- Cooked and shredded chicken breast: Lean, tender protein that melds seamlessly into the casserole.
- Broccoli florets: Adds color, crunch, and a dose of green goodness that makes every bite more vibrant.
- Julienned carrots: Offer sweetness and beautiful orange strands throughout the dish.
- Sliced red bell pepper: Delivers a touch of sweetness and a burst of red color to keep things visually exciting.
- Frozen peas: Simple, quick, and convenient, peas bring a sweet pop and a tender texture.
- Chopped green onions: Gives a gentle bite and a hint of oniony flavor that brightens up the casserole.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: The foundation for a well-balanced teriyaki sauce that isn’t too salty.
- Water: Lightens up the sauce and helps it blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Honey: Adds just the right amount of natural sweetness to complement the savory elements.
- Rice vinegar: Brings a subtle tang that keeps the sauce lively and bright.
- Sesame oil: A drizzle of depth, aroma, and unmistakable toasted flavor.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the teriyaki sauce so it perfectly coats every piece in the casserole.
- Minced garlic: Intensifies the aroma and infuses the sauce with a classic, savory layer.
- Grated fresh ginger: Offers warmth and a zingy freshness that defines teriyaki dishes.
- Sesame seeds (optional): A final sprinkle for a touch of crunch and extra visual flair.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Preheat
Before anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This tiny step keeps clean-up easy and ensures every serving of Teriyaki Chicken Casserole lifts out beautifully later on.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a light simmer—you’ll smell that signature teriyaki aroma almost instantly. In a separate small bowl, blend the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water until smooth, then pour it into the saucepan. Stir constantly as the sauce gently thickens in about 2 to 3 minutes, becoming glossy and irresistibly fragrant.
Step 3: Mix the Chicken, Rice, and Veggies
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the cooked brown rice, shredded chicken, broccoli, carrots, red bell pepper, peas, and green onions. These colors and textures mixed together already look like a celebration, but soon they’ll be united by that rich teriyaki sauce.
Step 4: Combine with Sauce and Assemble
Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce right over the bowl of chicken, rice, and veggies. Stir everything together until each bit is evenly coated and the flavors begin to mingle. Spoon this vibrant mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer for consistent baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes so everything melds together. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes—this finishes it off with a slightly crispy, golden top that makes Teriyaki Chicken Casserole utterly irresistible. For the perfect finish, sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving (if you’d like that tiny bit of crunch).
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Casserole
Garnishes
For a casserole that looks as good as it tastes, top each serving with a fresh scatter of sesame seeds or a sprinkle of sliced green onions. These last touches add texture and a pop of color, making the meal feel extra welcoming and festive.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out your table, serve it with a crisp side salad, some roasted edamame, or a bowl of miso soup. Each of these makes for an easy pairing and helps soak up every last bit of that luscious teriyaki sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re in the mood for fun, serve Teriyaki Chicken Casserole in individual ramekins or mini cocottes—perfect for dinner parties or lunchbox-friendly leftovers. You could also spoon it into lettuce cups for a playful, fresh twist that’s great for lighter occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, so it’s a delicious next-day lunch or dinner you’ll look forward to eating again.
Freezing
Teriyaki Chicken Casserole freezes like a dream! Portion into individual containers or wrap the whole (cooled) casserole tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to label for easy meal planning!
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop a portion in the microwave until piping hot, or warm the casserole in a 350°F oven, covered, until heated through. If it’s looking a bit dry, add a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce to bring back its signature sauciness.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of brown?
Absolutely! White rice works beautifully and will yield a slightly softer, creamier texture. You can also try quinoa or cauliflower rice if you’re looking to switch things up.
Is there a way to make Teriyaki Chicken Casserole vegetarian?
Yes—swap the shredded chicken for cubes of tofu or a medley of extra veggies. Use vegetable broth in the sauce if desired, and you’ll have a hearty, plant-based dinner ready in no time.
Can I add more veggies?
Of course! Feel free to toss in snap peas, baby corn, mushrooms, or even spinach. This casserole is super flexible and ideal for using up whatever you have on hand.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?
Two forks work great to pull apart cooked chicken breast, or pulse it a few times in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for super speedy shredding. Leftover rotisserie chicken is also a tasty shortcut.
How can I add some heat?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, stir in a squeeze of Sriracha, or serve hot sauce on the side for anyone who likes a spicy kick with their Teriyaki Chicken Casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to slow down, share good food, and enjoy a colorful, home-cooked dish with the ones you love. It’s simple, versatile, and brimming with flavor, so don’t wait to give it a try. I can’t wait to hear how you make it your own!
Print
Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a homemade teriyaki sauce, all baked to perfection. A comforting meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Garnish:
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Simmer and thicken with cornstarch slurry.
- In a mixing bowl, combine rice, chicken, vegetables, and teriyaki sauce. Transfer to baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10 more minutes until crispy.
- Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice with white rice or quinoa.
- Use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
