Let me tell you, making *easy teriyaki chicken and fried rice* is one of the best decisions you can make for dinner! It’s super quick to whip up—seriously, you’ll have it on the table in about 25 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was juggling work and family commitments, and I needed a meal that wouldn’t turn into a stress-fest. I threw everything together, and wow, my family devoured it! The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce combined with the fluffy fried rice and colorful veggies is just a match made in heaven. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your *easy teriyaki chicken and fried rice*. I like to have all my ingredients prepped and ready to go, so it’s super easy to throw everything together. Let’s dive in!

• 2 chicken breasts, diced: Make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce: This is what brings that delicious sweet and savory flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount to your taste!
• 2 cups cooked rice: Leftover rice works great here! Just make sure it’s cold to get that perfect fried texture.
• 1 cup mixed vegetables: Use any mix you love—frozen or fresh! Bell peppers, carrots, and peas are my favorites.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: This helps keep everything from sticking and gives a nice sear to the chicken.
• 2 green onions, chopped: These add a fresh crunch as a garnish, plus they look pretty on top!
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds so much flavor! You can use more if you love garlic like I do.
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced: The ginger gives a lovely warm spice that complements the teriyaki sauce perfectly.

How to Prepare *Easy Teriyaki Chicken and Fried Rice*

Okay, let’s get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s super straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Step 1: Heat the Pan

First up, grab your favorite skillet and pour in the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium heat—this is key! Medium heat lets the chicken cook evenly without burning. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts to shimmer a bit. If you see any smoke, back off the heat a little; we don’t want that!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Now, toss in your diced chicken breasts and spread them out in the pan. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want those pieces to turn a beautiful golden brown. This browning adds so much flavor, so don’t rush it! Just make sure they’re cooked through—no one likes undercooked chicken!

Step 3: Add Flavor

Once your chicken is nicely browned, it’s time to add in the good stuff! Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger. Stir them in and let them cook for about 1 minute until they’re fragrant. Oh, the aroma will be heavenly! Just be careful not to let them burn; we want flavor, not bitterness!

Step 4: Simmer with Sauce

Next, pour in that 1 cup of teriyaki sauce. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully. You’ll see the sauce thicken a bit as it cooks—yum! If you like a saucier dish, feel free to add a little more sauce. Taste it and adjust if needed; you’re the chef here!

Step 5: Prepare Fried Rice

In another pan, heat a bit more oil if needed and stir-fry your 1 cup of mixed vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still crisp. Then, add your 2 cups of cooked rice along with a splash of soy sauce. Mix it all together well! I like to really get in there and break up any clumps of rice. You want every grain coated in that delicious soy sauce and veggie goodness.

Step 6: Serve the Dish

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Spoon the fried rice onto your serving plates and top it with the teriyaki chicken. Don’t forget to garnish with those lovely chopped green onions for that fresh crunch. I always love a little extra drizzle of teriyaki sauce on top, too! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal without the hassle.
• Delicious Flavors: The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and colorful fried rice, creating a flavor explosion in every bite!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the vegetables or protein to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Feel free to get creative!
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Leftover Magic: If you have any leftovers, they’re perfect for lunch the next day! Just toss the chicken in a salad or enjoy it cold.
• Gluten-Free Option: With the right teriyaki sauce, this recipe can easily fit into a gluten-free diet without sacrificing flavor!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s talk about some pro tips to make your *easy teriyaki chicken and fried rice* absolutely perfect! These little nuggets of wisdom can really elevate your dish, trust me!

• Prep Ahead: If you can, chop your chicken and veggies ahead of time. This makes the cooking process super smooth and quick. You won’t be scrambling around looking for your ingredients at the last minute!
• Use Cold Rice: For the best fried rice texture, always use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice can get mushy, and we want those grains to be perfectly individual and fluffy!
• Don’t Skip the Searing: Make sure to allow your chicken to sear properly before adding the garlic and ginger. This caramelization adds a depth of flavor that’s just unbeatable!
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to mix things up! If you want a little kick, try adding a splash of sriracha or chili sauce to your teriyaki. You can even use a honey-garlic sauce if you want something a bit different!
• Vegetable Variations: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand! Broccoli, snap peas, or even zucchini can work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time so they’re tender but still crisp.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t be shy with your garnishes! A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce can really take your dish to the next level.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious meal that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to change things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize your *easy teriyaki chicken and fried rice*! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Protein Swaps: While chicken is a classic choice, you can easily swap it out for shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times depending on what protein you choose!
• Veggie Medley: Experiment with different vegetables! Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking!
• Spicy Kick: If you love spice, drizzle some sriracha or add a dash of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for an extra kick. You can also toss in some diced chili peppers with the garlic and ginger!
• Coconut Rice: Change up the rice by cooking it in coconut milk instead of water for a tropical twist. It’ll add a creamy richness that complements the teriyaki sauce perfectly!
• Asian Slaw: Serve your teriyaki chicken on a bed of crunchy Asian slaw instead of rice for a lighter meal. Just toss together some shredded cabbage, carrots, and a bit of sesame dressing for added flavor!
• Sauce Variations: Don’t be afraid to switch out the teriyaki sauce for something different. A sweet chili sauce or hoisin sauce can create a whole new flavor profile while still being delicious!

The beauty of this dish is its versatility! So go ahead, mix and match to your heart’s content, and create a version that’s uniquely yours. Enjoy the culinary adventure!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for your *easy teriyaki chicken and fried rice*! Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes, but they give you a good idea of what to expect.

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Cholesterol: 70mg

This dish packs a punch with protein and keeps things balanced with carbs from the rice and veggies. Plus, it’s gluten-free if you grab the right teriyaki sauce! So dig in without guilt and savor every delicious bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic option for this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, so if you have those on hand, go for it! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a couple of extra minutes to cook through.

What can I substitute for teriyaki sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing soy sauce, honey, and a splash of rice vinegar. Or, use a store-bought sweet chili sauce for a different but equally delicious flavor!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can definitely prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time! Just store them separately in the fridge and cook everything fresh when you’re ready to eat. This way, you’ll enjoy that fresh, just-cooked taste!

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it can be gluten-free! Just make sure to use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce and soy sauce. There are plenty of great options available in stores now, so you can enjoy this dish without worry.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. Just add a splash of water to keep the rice from getting too dry!

For more information on the benefits of teriyaki sauce, check out this Healthline article.

For tips on cooking chicken perfectly, visit this The Spruce Eats guide.

Easy Teriyaki Chicken and Fried Rice: 25-Minute Delight

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A simple recipe for teriyaki chicken served with fried rice.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

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Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Add teriyaki sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In another pan, stir-fry mixed vegetables.
6. Add cooked rice and soy sauce to vegetables, mixing well.
7. Serve chicken over fried rice, garnished with green onions.

Notes

• Adjust sauce quantity to taste.
• Use any vegetables you prefer.
• Leftover chicken can be used in salads or sandwiches.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-fry
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: easy teriyaki chicken, fried rice, quick dinner