Easy Teriyaki Chicken and Fried Rice Dinner

This Easy Teriyaki Chicken and Fried Rice Dinner is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines sweet and savory teriyaki chicken with flavorful fried rice. It’s a perfect weeknight dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with classic Asian-inspired flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite vegetables or protein to make it your own.
• Balanced Meal: It combines protein, carbs, and veggies in one dish.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet teriyaki glaze is a hit with kids.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepping the rice or chicken in advance makes it even faster.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Teriyaki Chicken:

• Chicken thighs or breasts
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Honey
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Cornstarch (optional for thickening)

For the Fried Rice:

• Cooked and cooled white or jasmine rice
• Eggs
• Frozen peas and carrots mix
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Green onions

Directions

1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook over medium heat until it thickens slightly. If desired, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce for additional thickness.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken pieces until golden and fully cooked. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and simmer for a few minutes until well coated.
3. Make the Fried Rice:
   • Heat sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
   • Scramble the eggs and push them to the side of the pan.
   • Add the cooked rice, peas, and carrots, and stir to combine.
   • Season with soy sauce and mix everything thoroughly.
4. Serve: Plate the fried rice and top it with the teriyaki chicken. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or beef instead of chicken.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Include bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
• Grain Options: Substitute white rice with brown rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa.
• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if needed to restore moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought sauce for convenience, but homemade adds a fresh, customizable flavor.

2. What kind of rice works best for fried rice?

Day-old cooked jasmine rice is ideal for achieving the right texture.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

4. How do I prevent fried rice from becoming mushy?

Ensure the rice is fully cooled before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the fried rice and teriyaki chicken separately for up to 2 months.

6. How can I thicken the teriyaki sauce?

Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the sauce while simmering.

7. Can I use brown rice for this recipe?

Absolutely, brown rice works well and adds a nutty flavor.

8. What vegetables can I add to the fried rice?

You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or bok choy for variety.

9. Do I need to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is optional but enhances the flavor if you have extra time.

10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and adjust the sauce ingredients.

Conclusion

This Easy Teriyaki Chicken and Fried Rice Dinner is a quick, versatile, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right from the comfort of your home!

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