After a long day, the final thing you need to do is spend hours in the kitchen cooking dinner. But what if I told you that you could create a wholesome, flavorful meal in just one pan? This is where the magic of One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice comes in. The savory teriyaki sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice come together in an easy, no-fuss recipe that will leave you feeling satisfied without all the cleanup.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make the perfect One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice, while also providing tips and tricks to help you make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone just starting to explore the joys of cooking, this recipe is for you. Let’s dive in!
Why One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Is the Perfect Meal
One-pan meals have become a staple for busy people everywhere. And for good reason—these meals save time, reduce mess, and can be prepared with minimal ingredients, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. So, why should you try One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice?
1. Convenience and Time-Saving
You get all the flavors of a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of one-pan recipes is that you’re essentially throwing everything together in one place, letting the ingredients work their magic. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for the whole family, you’ll love how quickly this dish comes together.
2. Flavors that Pop
The star of this formula is the teriyaki sauce. It’s sweet, savory, and slightly tangy—perfect for complementing the tender chicken and rice. The sauce seeps into the rice, making every bite burst with flavor. Add garlic and ginger for an aromatic base, and you have a dish that is both comforting and exciting to the taste buds.
3. Nutrient-Packed Meal
This dish is the epitome of balance. With protein-packed chicken, healthy carbs from the rice, and the option to add colorful vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, you’re making a complete meal in one pan. It’s a victory for both your palate and your well-being.
4. Customizable to Your Preferences
Another reason this dish stands out is its incredible flexibility. Whether you want to switch up the protein or add more veggies, this recipe allows you to experiment with different ingredients while keeping the flavor intact.
Ingredients Needed for One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
Before you get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. This recipe is simple, and most of these items you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) | 4 pieces |
| White or brown rice | 1 cup |
| Teriyaki sauce | ⅓ cup |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Ginger (fresh, grated) | 1 tsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Onion (diced) | 1 small |
| Bell pepper (optional) | 1, sliced |
| Chicken broth or water | 1 ½ cups |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | For garnish |
| Green onions (optional) | For garnish |
You can find most of these ingredients at your local grocery store, and some of them may already be in your pantry.
How to Make One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
Now that we’ve got all the ingredients ready, let’s get to cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice. Each step is designed to bring out the best flavors in your ingredients, while keeping things as straightforward as possible.
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. While the pan is heating up, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, put the chicken breasts in the pan. Sear them on both sides for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. The goal here is to lock in the flavor and moisture before the chicken simmers with the rice.
Once the chicken is burned, expel it from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll return it to the pan later.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
In the same pan, add sesame oil and sauté the diced onion, garlic, and grated ginger for 2-3 minutes. This step infuses the oil with aromatic flavors that will form the base of your sauce. The goal is to soften the onion and release the fragrance of the garlic and ginger.
Next, add the rice to the pan. Stir the rice into the fragrant mixture, letting it toast slightly for about a minute. This will give the rice a nutty flavor and make it even more delicious once it cooks.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
Once the rice is slightly toasted, it’s time to add the liquid. Pour in the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and chicken broth (or water) and stir to combine. The soy sauce adds an extra layer of saltiness, and the broth helps the rice cook perfectly.
After stirring, add the chicken back into the pan. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s nicely coated. Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. The rice should absorb all the flavors, and the chicken will cook through during this time.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (check the internal temperature—165°F or 75°C), remove the pan from the heat. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
For a bit of extra flavor and texture, garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. These small touches will elevate your dish visually and add a satisfying crunch.
Tips for Perfect One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
To make sure your One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips and tricks:
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic and ginger are key to infusing the dish with rich flavor. Don’t skip these ingredients, as they make a big difference.
2. Brown Rice Option
If you prefer brown rice, simply substitute it for white rice. However, be prepared to increase the cooking time and liquid slightly, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
3. Add Veggies for More Color and Nutrition
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to your dish. These can be added halfway through the cooking process for extra color and nutrients. Frozen vegetables also work well in this recipe.
4. Meal Prep-Friendly
This dish is great for meal prep! Simply cook in advance and store it in airtight containers in the fridge. It will keep for up to 4 days. You can too solidify person parcels for up to 3 months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
While this dish is easy to prepare, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid. These tips will help ensure that your One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time.
1. Overcooking the Chicken
Chicken breasts can dry out if they’re overcooked. Always utilize a meat thermometer to check the inside temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, simply cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
2. Not Adding Enough Liquid
The rice needs enough liquid to cook properly. If you’re using brown rice or adding extra veggies, you may need to add more liquid (broth or water) to compensate. Keep an eye on the pan while it’s cooking to make sure the rice is absorbing the liquid and cooking evenly.
3. Skipping the Searing Step
Searing the chicken locks in moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step! If you skip searing, your chicken may turn out dry and less flavorful.
Customizing Your One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
One of the best things around this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here’s how you can make One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice your own:
Protein Variations
- Boneless chicken thighs: They add extra flavor and are more forgiving than chicken breasts if you’re concerned about overcooking.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for tofu. Firm tofu will absorb the teriyaki sauce and create a satisfying meal.
- Shrimp: If you love seafood, shrimp is another excellent option. Simply cook the shrimp until pink and tender.
Vegetable Variations
- Add extra vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach to enhance the dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with whatever vegetables you have on hand.
- You can also try adding frozen peas or edamame for a quick and easy veggie addition.
Sauce Adjustments
- Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce by adding a little honey or brown sugar.
- Tanginess: For a tangy kick, add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice to the sauce.
- Heat: If you like a little spice, add some red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to the pan.
How to Store and Reheat One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice:
Storing
Store scraps in an waterproof holder in the ice chest for up to 4 days. You can moreover solidify person parcels in freezer-safe holders for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, place the dish in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can too warm in the microwave in 1-minute interims, mixing in between.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice with brown rice?
Yes, brown rice can be substituted for white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid.
Can I utilize boneless chicken thighs instep of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs add extra flavor and stay moist during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the thighs.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To add heat, simply add red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chili peppers, or a drizzle of sriracha sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas is a great way to enhance the dish. Add them halfway through the cooking process for the best texture.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Rice is an easy, delicious, and customizable meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The combination of savory teriyaki sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful rice creates a balanced and satisfying meal. Plus, the fact that it all comes together in just one pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Ready to try it? Grab your ingredients and give this tasty dish a go—you won’t regret it!