In just 15 minutes, whip up some diced chicken into a dinner that tastes like it’s straight from a restaurant
When the craving for something delicious and hearty strikes, few dishes can deliver the comfort and taste quite like a Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole. Combining the rich, savory-sweet notes of teriyaki sauce with tender chicken and crisp vegetables, this casserole is a perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors and homestyle goodness. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or planning a dish for a potluck, this casserole will be a showstopper. The combination of textures—juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and fluffy rice—ensures every bite is full of satisfying flavor.
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Why This Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole Stands Out
What makes this casserole truly special is its versatility and convenience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited but you still want to serve something nutritious and delicious. With a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, this dish comes together quickly, while still delivering robust flavors. The use of frozen vegetables makes it an accessible option year-round, and the teriyaki sauce brings everything together with its unique balance of sweet and savory.
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Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s break down the key ingredients you’ll need for this delectable dish:
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Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Raw diced chicken (breast or thighs) | 1 pound | |
Instant rice | 2 cups | For a quick and easy preparation |
Frozen mixed vegetables | 3 cups | A colorful blend of carrots, peas, and broccoli |
Teriyaki sauce | 1 cup | Store-bought or homemade for a personalized touch |
Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons | To cook the chicken and lock in flavor |
Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | For an extra punch of flavor |
Salt and pepper | To taste | To season the chicken |
Optional garnish | – | Sesame seeds and sliced green onions |
These simple ingredients come together to create a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful. Each component adds its own texture and flavor profile, making the casserole both satisfying and rich in taste.
Step-by-Step Directions to Prepare Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven to 375°F (190°C)
Before starting, make sure to preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and comes out perfectly golden on top.
2. Marinate and Cook the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, toss your diced chicken with half a cup of teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors of the teriyaki marinade.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s mostly cooked through. The goal is to get a nice sear on the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor without overcooking it, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
3. Prepare the Instant Rice
While your chicken is cooking, prepare the instant rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling water, adding rice, and letting it sit covered for about 5 minutes. Using instant rice is a time-saver, and its texture complements the casserole beautifully.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Once the chicken and rice are ready, it’s time to assemble the casserole. In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked chicken, prepared rice, and frozen mixed vegetables. Pour the remaining half-cup of teriyaki sauce over the top and stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with sauce.
5. Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to ensure that the vegetables steam and soften during the baking process. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have fully melded together. Baking the casserole covered allows the teriyaki sauce to infuse into every component, enhancing the overall taste.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once your casserole has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. For an added layer of flavor and texture, sprinkle the top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. These optional garnishes add a nutty crunch and a burst of freshness to the dish, elevating its presentation and taste.