Teriyaki Chicken Sticky Rice Bowl

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Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that brings the vibrant flavors of Japanese cuisine to your dinner table? Our Teriyaki Chicken Sticky Rice Bowl is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines tender chicken coated in a savory teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy sticky rice, and garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, and will surely impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired dishes or just looking to try something new, this sticky rice bowl is a fantastic choice. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients—chicken breast, teriyaki sauce, sticky rice, and a few garnishes—you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time! Let’s get cooking and bring a taste of Japan right to your kitchen!

Ingredients

chicken breast

Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breast for a leaner dish. If you're looking for moisture and flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a bit of the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. If you need a substitute, turkey breast or tofu (for a vegetarian version) can work well.

teriyaki sauce

You can make your own teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your preference. If you want a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Store-bought sauces vary in sweetness and saltiness, so taste before adding the full amount.

sticky rice

Make sure to rinse the sticky rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which can make it gummy. If you can't find sticky rice, you can use sushi rice or even jasmine rice, but the texture will differ slightly. Soaking the rice for a few hours or overnight can also enhance its texture.

green onions

Use both the white and green parts of the green onions for flavor and color contrast. If you don't have green onions, chives or shallots can be good substitutes. For enhanced flavor, lightly sauté the green onions in the skillet before adding the chicken.

sesame seeds

Toasting the sesame seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes before using them will enhance their nutty flavor. If you don't have sesame seeds, chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews can add a nice crunch. For a different flavor profile, consider using furikake, a Japanese rice seasoning.

vegetable oil

Use a neutral oil like canola or grapeseed oil for frying the chicken. If you want to infuse more flavor, you can use sesame oil or peanut oil, but be mindful of their stronger flavors. If you're cooking at high temperatures, consider using oils with higher smoke points.

Cooking Steps

  • Step 1: Cook the Sticky Rice

    Rinse 1 cup of sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for better texture. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. After soaking, drain the rice and cook according to the package instructions—usually using a rice cooker or steaming method.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

    While the rice is cooking, take 1 pound of chicken breast and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
  • Step 3: Add Teriyaki Sauce

    Pour 1 cup of teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the pieces evenly. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 3 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Step 4: Fluff the Rice

    Once the sticky rice is cooked, use a fork to fluff it gently. This will separate the grains and give it a light, airy texture. Divide the rice into bowls as a base for your dish.
  • Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

    Top the fluffed sticky rice with the teriyaki chicken from the skillet. Make sure to spoon some of the extra sauce over the chicken for added flavor. Garnish with 2 stalks of sliced green onions and 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds for a nice crunch and additional flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare sticky rice?

To prepare sticky rice, rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Then, steam it in a bamboo steamer or a fine mesh sieve over boiling water for about 20-30 minutes until it's tender and sticky.

How do I cut chicken breast properly?

To cut chicken breast, place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife. Slice it into even, bite-sized pieces against the grain to ensure tenderness. Make sure to keep your fingers tucked in to avoid cuts.

What if I don't have teriyaki sauce?

If you don't have teriyaki sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing soy sauce, sugar, ginger, and garlic. Use 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon minced ginger, and 1 clove minced garlic for a simple homemade version.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer. Alternatively, the chicken should be no longer pink inside and the juices should run clear.

What’s the best way to fluff rice?

Once the sticky rice is cooked, let it sit for a few minutes off the heat. Then, use a fork to gently fluff the rice, which helps separate the grains and enhances its texture.

How can I safely handle raw chicken?

Always wash your hands before and after handling raw chicken. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other ingredients to avoid cross-contamination. Clean your utensils and surfaces thoroughly after use.

Can I add vegetables to my Teriyaki Chicken Sticky Rice Bowl?

Absolutely! You can add steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. Just sauté them in the skillet after cooking the chicken for a few minutes until tender.

How do I store leftover Teriyaki Chicken Sticky Rice Bowl?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

What can I use instead of sesame seeds?

If you don't have sesame seeds, you can use chopped nuts like peanuts or almonds, or simply skip them. They add a nice crunch, but the dish will still be delicious without them.

How can I make my Teriyaki sauce thicker?

To thicken teriyaki sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce while it simmers, and it will thicken up nicely.

Additional Information

Dietary Considerations

This dish can be easily adapted for various dietary preferences. For a gluten-free option, ensure that your teriyaki sauce is gluten-free or make your own using tamari instead of soy sauce. To make it a vegetarian or vegan option, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use a plant-based teriyaki sauce. Additionally, you can substitute sticky rice with quinoa or brown rice for a healthier grain option that increases fiber content.

Pairings

For a well-rounded meal, pair this Teriyaki Chicken Sticky Rice Bowl with steamed vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a pop of color and added nutrients. For a beverage, consider serving with a light, refreshing iced green tea or a crisp Japanese lager like Asahi or Sapporo. If you're looking for a wine pairing, a chilled Riesling or a fruity Sauvignon Blanc can complement the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Teriyaki Chicken Sticky Rice Bowl in deep, wide bowls to allow for easy mixing of the ingredients. Drizzle extra teriyaki sauce over the top for added moisture and flavor. For an added crunch, consider topping with crushed crispy onions or fried shallots. You can also serve it alongside pickled ginger or a small side of edamame for a delightful contrast in flavor and texture. For a bit of heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha on the side.

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Teriyaki Chicken Sticky Rice Bowl

Teriyaki Chicken Sticky Rice Bowl
25 min
$10
450 kcal
Difficulty: 20%
Servings: 4

Allergens:

SoySesame

Dietary Tags:

High ProteinLow Fat

Cuisine:

JapaneseAsian

Course:

Main Course

Tags:

EasyQuickComfort FoodAsian

Occasions:

Weeknight DinnerMeal PrepCasual Gathering

Description

A delicious and easy-to-make bowl featuring tender teriyaki chicken served over fluffy sticky rice, perfect for a quick meal!

Ingredients

  • chicken breast: 1 pound
  • teriyaki sauce: 1 cup
  • sticky rice: 1 cup
  • green onions: 2 stalks
  • sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon
  • vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon

Date Created:

2/2/2025