Looking for a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of teriyaki chicken and stir-fry vegetables? Look no further than Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole! This delightful dish combines tender diced chicken, fragrant garlic and ginger, savory teriyaki sauce, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all baked together with rice for a hearty and satisfying meal. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to make this mouthwatering casserole step by step, along with variations, tips, and answers to frequently asked questions, so you can enjoy a flavorful and fuss-free dinner that’s sure to impress.
Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole is a fusion of two beloved Asian-inspired dishes – teriyaki chicken and stir-fry vegetables – transformed into a convenient and comforting casserole format. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this dish brings together the best of both worlds with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and adapts well to different dietary preferences. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this flavorful fusion dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb. (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups chicken stock/broth, no sodium
- 3/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 cups (475g) uncooked instant white or brown rice
- 1 lb. (450g) frozen bag stir-fry vegetables*
- 5 cloves garlic, grated or finely chopped
- 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Rice: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and sauté the grated garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat with the oil and aromatics.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the rice. Add the chicken stock/broth and teriyaki sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the frozen stir-fry vegetables evenly over the top.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil from the baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for garnish, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the flavorful goodness of Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to customize the stir-fry vegetables based on your preferences. You can use a mix of bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or any other vegetables you like.
- Homemade Teriyaki Sauce: If you prefer homemade teriyaki sauce, you can easily make it by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch in a saucepan and simmering until thickened.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the chicken and rice mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to the Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole recipe:
- Cauliflower Rice: Substitute cauliflower rice for the traditional rice to reduce the carbohydrate content of the dish.
- Low-Carb Teriyaki Sauce: Use a low-carb or sugar-free teriyaki sauce to keep the carb count low while still enjoying the flavors of teriyaki chicken.
- Vegetable Substitutions: Choose low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for the stir-fry component.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: Can I use fresh stir-fry vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use fresh vegetables if you have them on hand. Just be sure to slice or chop them into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the casserole.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. Allow the casserole to come to room temperature before baking, and adjust the baking time as needed.
Q: Can I add additional seasonings or herbs to the dish?
A: Of course! Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite seasonings or herbs to suit your taste preferences. Fresh cilantro, green onions, or sesame oil would all be delicious additions.
Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With its tender chicken, fragrant garlic and ginger, and colorful stir-fry vegetables, this casserole offers a delightful fusion of Asian-inspired flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a delicious and convenient meal option, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole tonight!