Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Collection
I love making this Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl because it’s a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal that’s packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a homemade teriyaki sauce creates a satisfying dish I crave time and time again. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be customized with various veggies that I have on hand. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!
Creating the perfect Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl has been a delightful journey for me. I found that marinating the chicken in a homemade sauce not only infuses it with flavor but also keeps it juicy and tender. Utilizing fresh seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli adds not only color but essential nutrients to the dish, making it incredibly satisfying.
One of the best tips I discovered is to use a mix of freshly grated ginger and garlic in the teriyaki sauce for an aromatic punch, elevating the overall taste. This bowl can also be served over brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal that's as nutritious as it is delicious!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed teriyaki sauce that you can make from scratch
- Wholesome ingredients that make for a balanced meal
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins
Ingredient Variations
One of the best aspects of the Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl is its flexibility. While the recipe calls for bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Snap peas, zucchini, or even mushrooms can bring unique flavors and textures to the dish. Just remember to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking, and adjust the cooking time slightly if your choices require it.
For a twist on the protein, try substituting tofu or tempeh for the chicken to make a delicious vegetarian version. You can cube the tofu and pan-fry it until golden, or marinate tempeh for a deeper flavor. Additionally, using cooked shrimp or diced beef can add variety while still perfectly complementing the teriyaki sauce.
Making Ahead and Storing
This Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl is great for meal prepping. You can make the chicken and vegetables in advance, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider keeping the rice or quinoa separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.
The homemade teriyaki sauce can also be made a few days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. If you find your sauce has thickened too much after sitting, simply add a splash of water to loosen it up while reheating. This will maintain its glossy finish and rich flavor.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your chicken isn't browning as desired, consider increasing the heat slightly or giving it a bit more space in the skillet. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than searing, preventing that lovely golden color. A high heat can help achieve that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy, so don’t be afraid to adjust the heat as needed.
Should your teriyaki sauce turn out thicker than you prefer, simply thin it with a little extra water, adding it gradually until you achieve your desired consistency. Remember, the sauce should coat the chicken and veggies evenly, enhancing the entire bowl without overwhelming it. And if you enjoy a spicy kick, a dash of sriracha can elevate the flavor profile.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
For the Bowls
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, etc.)
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch (if using). Set aside.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Add Sauce and Vegetables
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are just tender.
Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa among four bowls. Top each bowl with the teriyaki chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. Additionally, experimenting with seasonal vegetables can bring new flavors to your teriyaki bowl!
Serving Suggestions
For a more elevated presentation, consider serving the Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl in large lettuce leaves for a fresh wrap-style meal. This not only adds crunch but also lightens the dish for those looking for a lower-carb option. Garnishing with edible flowers can also make the dish visually appealing for gatherings.
You might also add a side of pickled ginger for an extra tangy note that pairs beautifully with the flavorful teriyaki sauce. This balance of tastes contrasts perfectly with the savory components and adds a refreshing touch to the meal.
Flavor Enhancements
If you want to enhance the umami flavor in your teriyaki sauce, consider adding a splash of mirin or a tablespoon of miso paste. These ingredients can introduce a depth that elevates the dish even further. Additionally, using low-sodium soy sauce can provide a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
A sprinkle of toasted sesame oil just before serving can also intensify the dish's aroma and flavor. It gives a nutty finish that works wonderfully with the teriyaki sauce, creating a complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
→ What vegetables work best?
Any vegetables you enjoy can work great, but bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas offer nice textures and flavors.
→ Can I use a store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought sauce to save time, but making it from scratch adds a personal touch.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
I love making this Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl because it’s a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal that’s packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a homemade teriyaki sauce creates a satisfying dish I crave time and time again. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be customized with various veggies that I have on hand. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!
Created by: Prudence Whitby
Recipe Type: Clean Healthy Food Collection
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
For the Bowls
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, etc.)
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch (if using). Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are just tender.
Divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa among four bowls. Top each bowl with the teriyaki chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. Additionally, experimenting with seasonal vegetables can bring new flavors to your teriyaki bowl!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 30g