Teriyaki Chicken and Jasmine Rice

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and comforting dinner that the whole family will love? This Teriyaki Chicken and Jasmine Rice casserole combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and perfectly seasoned jasmine rice in a single dish. With minimal prep and an easy bake in the oven, it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner solution.

Introduction

Teriyaki chicken is a classic favorite for many reasons—its sweet-savory sauce, tender meat, and comforting aroma make it irresistible. Pairing it with fragrant jasmine rice and a touch of pineapple and peas transforms it into a complete, one-dish meal that’s both balanced and satisfying.

This recipe is:

• Quick and simple: About 40–45 minutes total
• Family-friendly: Mild flavors everyone enjoys
• Versatile: Easily adapted for vegetarian or gluten-free diets
• Meal-prep ready: Stores well for lunches or make-ahead dinners

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy dinners when you want flavor without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-dish convenience: Chicken, rice, and veggies baked together
• Balanced flavors: Sweet teriyaki, savory soy, and tender chicken
• Customizable: Swap chicken for tofu or brown rice for a healthier twist
• Kid-approved: Mild, sweet, and easy to eat
• Meal-prep friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for several days
• Quick assembly: Prep in 10–15 minutes and let the oven do the work

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup frozen peas

Sauce & Seasoning

• 1/3 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Garnish

• Fresh parsley (optional)

Optional Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with firm tofu
• Grain alternatives: Brown rice or quinoa instead of jasmine rice
• Flavor boosters: Add a dash of sesame oil for depth

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Baking dish (8×8 or similar)
• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or spoon
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced chicken and sauté until fully cooked and lightly browned, about 6–8 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
   • 1/3 cup teriyaki sauce
   • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
   • 1 tablespoon honey (if using)
   • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
   • 1 teaspoon ginger powder
2. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat the rice with sauce.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the cooked chicken, pineapple chunks, and frozen peas to the rice mixture.
2. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish.
2. Spread evenly and cover with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake covered for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is slightly golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Marinate chicken: For more flavor, marinate chicken in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Sesame flavor: Add 1 teaspoon sesame oil to the rice mixture for a more authentic taste.
• Extra veggies: Include bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle a small amount of mozzarella or cheddar on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey finish.
• Meal prep: Bake in advance, store in airtight containers, and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish balances:

• Sweetness: Pineapple and honey
• Savory notes: Teriyaki sauce and soy
• Tender texture: Chicken and jasmine rice
• Fresh pops: Parsley garnish

Suggested Sides

• Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, snap peas, or green beans)
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Stir-fried greens for extra color and nutrients

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving – 1/4 Recipe)

• Calories: ~380 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Cholesterol: 60 mg

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free (with low-sodium soy sauce), can be made vegetarian or vegan with tofu, high-protein and well-balanced carbs.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Assemble ahead: Combine the rice, chicken, sauce, and veggies in the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Reduce baking time slightly and ensure the dish is heated through.

Can I substitute pineapple with another fruit?
Mango or peaches can be used for a different sweet twist.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to cooking time.

Can I use a different type of rice?
Brown rice or quinoa works, but you may need extra liquid and longer baking time.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep	10 minutes
Cook Chicken	6–8 minutes
Mix & Assemble	5 minutes
Bake	30 minutes
Total	50–55 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot straight from the oven with parsley garnish.
• Plate with steamed vegetables for a colorful meal.
• Add a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce for flavor enhancement.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Teriyaki: Substitute chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh.
2. Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice.
3. Extra veggie: Add shredded carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers.
4. Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for heat.

Ingredient Spotlight

Jasmine Rice

Fragrant and slightly sticky, jasmine rice provides a delicate floral aroma and soft texture that complements the sweetness of teriyaki sauce.

Teriyaki Sauce

A combination of soy sauce, sweetener, and seasoning, teriyaki sauce adds a balanced sweet-savory flavor. Low-sodium versions reduce sodium without sacrificing taste.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use freshly cooked rice for fluffy, separate grains.
• Avoid overbaking chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
• Stir rice mixture gently to prevent mashing the grains.
• Cover the casserole during baking to retain moisture and prevent dryness.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store baked casserole in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, extending baking time by 10–15 minutes.
• Reheat: Microwave or oven; add a splash of water or teriyaki sauce to restore moisture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving – 1/4 Casserole)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	380 kcal
Protein	25 g
Fat	7 g
Carbohydrates	50 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	12 g
Sodium	550 mg
Cholesterol	60 mg

Expanded Conclusion

This Teriyaki Chicken and Jasmine Rice casserole is a delicious, easy, and versatile meal perfect for busy nights or family dinners. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant jasmine rice baked in a rich teriyaki glaze creates a flavorful, satisfying dish everyone will love.

Whether you serve it as a quick weeknight dinner, a make-ahead meal for lunchboxes, or a comforting family-style casserole, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Try it tonight and enjoy a sweet, savory, and comforting meal your whole family will request again and again.

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