If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and wonderfully comforting, this Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Recipe is an absolute treasure. Imagine tender, juicy chicken paired with fluffy rice and vibrant, crunchy vegetables all brought together by a glossy, homemade teriyaki sauce that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and savory. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for a family dinner yet easy enough for busy weeknights or meal prep. Once you try it, this casserole will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward, fresh ingredients is the key to the magic in this casserole. Each component adds its own layer of texture, color, and flavor, making the dish harmonious and satisfying from the first bite to the last.
- Cooked white or jasmine rice (2 cups): Acts as the comforting, fluffy base that absorbs all those delicious teriyaki flavors.
- Cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded (2 cups): Tender protein that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Broccoli florets (1½ cups): Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and vibrant color.
- Carrots, sliced thin (1 cup): Offers a subtle sweetness and delightful crunch.
- Red bell pepper, diced (1): Brings a pop of color and mild flavor that brightens the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté the vegetables for gentle caramelization.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (½ cup): The salty, umami base of our homemade teriyaki sauce.
- Brown sugar or honey (â…“ cup): Adds that essential sweet counterbalance.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Lends a slight tang that keeps the sauce fresh and lively.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Infuses a toasty nuttiness that defines teriyaki.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Boosts savory depth with its aromatic punch.
- Fresh grated ginger (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and a subtle zing.
- Cornstarch + water slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water): Ensures the sauce thickens to a glossy finish.
- Optional toppings – shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack (½ cup): Adds gooey richness when melted on top.
- Sesame seeds: For an extra nutty crunch and pretty garnish.
- Sliced green onions: Fresh bite and color contrast to brighten the finished casserole.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup simpler. This step sets the stage for a perfectly baked casserole with a golden finish.
Step 2: Create the Teriyaki Sauce
In a medium saucepan set to medium heat, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all those flavors to mingle and build depth. Next, whisk in your cornstarch slurry; this will thicken the sauce within 1 to 2 minutes, giving it that beautiful, glossy texture that clings to every bite. Once thickened, remove the sauce from heat to avoid overcooking.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets, carrot slices, and diced red bell pepper, sautéing for about 3 to 4 minutes. Your goal here is tender-crisp veggies that still retain their vibrant color and texture. This step adds both freshness and a welcome contrast to the soft rice and chicken.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and about three-quarters of the teriyaki sauce. Stir everything together until evenly coated and full of flavor. Transfer this savory mixture into your prepared baking dish, then pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top. This layering ensures every forkful bursts with the sweet-savory goodness of teriyaki.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through. If you’re adding cheese, remove the foil after the first baking phase, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack over the top, and return it to the oven uncovered for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once you’ve pulled that gorgeous casserole out of the oven, sprinkle sesame seeds across the top for a subtle crunch and burst of nutty flavor. Finish off with sliced green onions, adding a fresh pop of color and mild onion bite that balances the richness of the dish.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sesame seeds and green onions are classic garnishes that elevate this casserole visually and texturally. For a little extra flair, drizzle a bit more teriyaki sauce on top or sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice.
Side Dishes
This Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Recipe stands well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad, steamed edamame, or even some pickled vegetables can add contrast and freshness. Light miso soup also complements the deep umami flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins or bake the casserole in smaller, single-serving dishes for a fun, personalized presentation. Garnish each with extra sesame seeds and a green onion curl for a restaurant-quality look at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Recipe leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This makes it ideal for quick lunches or dinners later in the week when time is tight.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this casserole ahead for a later date, it freezes beautifully. Cover the baked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this casserole?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, making it a healthier alternative. Just be sure to cook it beforehand as you would with white rice, and the casserole may need a little extra time to bake through evenly.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Cooked chicken breast is ideal for tender, lean meat, but rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds extra flavor. You can also use thighs for a juicier, richer taste if you prefer.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth when preparing rice if needed. Adding mushrooms can also introduce a meaty texture that pairs wonderfully with the teriyaki sauce.
Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the homemade teriyaki sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This makes assembling the casserole quicker when you’re ready to cook.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Feel free to customize the veggies based on your preference or what’s in season. Snap peas, baby corn, or mushrooms would all work deliciously well with the flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Recipe is such a delightful way to bring everyone around the dinner table. It’s packed with flavor, colors, and textures that make every bite exciting and comforting at the same time. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing taste. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become one of your favorite dinners to make again and again!
Print
Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-American
Description
This Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is a sweet and savory family-friendly dish featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant sautéed vegetables all coated in a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce. Baked to perfection and optionally topped with melted cheese, sesame seeds, and green onions, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
- 1½ cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced thin
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- â…“ cup brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Toppings (Optional)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and diced red bell pepper for 3–4 minutes. Cook until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp for best texture.
- Assemble: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken breast, sautéed vegetables, and three-quarters of the teriyaki sauce. Mix thoroughly to coat everything evenly, then transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish. Pour the remaining teriyaki sauce over the top evenly.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. If using cheese, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Once baked, garnish the casserole with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful teriyaki chicken casserole.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy shortcut.
- Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa to increase fiber and nutrition.
- Add pineapple chunks for a sweet, tropical twist.
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
