Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

Name: Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup carrots, sliced; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Wellness Meals Co.

I love preparing a Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl for dinner because it always feels like a treat, yet it's packed with nutrition. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a homemade teriyaki sauce creates a delightful balance of flavors. I enjoy customizing the bowl with my favorite toppings, and it's a great way to sneak in some extra greens. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it a staple in my household for busy weeknights. Let me show you how to make this nourishing dish.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-02-27T15:37:37.054Z

When I first attempted to make a Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl, I wanted it to be both satisfying and packed with nutrients. I experimented with various marinades until I landed on a quick, homemade teriyaki sauce that perfectly complemented the chicken without being overly sugary. The result was a bowl full of flavor that didn't compromise on health!

To elevate our meals, I focused on using fresh vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, which add vibrant colors and crunch. I found that lightly steaming the veggies helped to retain their nutrients while keeping them crisp. Definitely a dish that's as nutritious as it is delicious.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory teriyaki sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and umami
Packed with vibrant vegetables for added nutrition and crunch
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce in this Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl is essential for delivering that classic Japanese flavor. The balance of soy sauce, sweetness from honey or maple syrup, acidity from rice vinegar, and the nutty aroma of sesame oil work together to create a rich umami profile. While low-sodium soy sauce helps in keeping the dish healthier, it's important to ensure no step is skipped in the whisking process; aim for a smooth, well-combined sauce that will cling beautifully to the chicken.

If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, tamari can be used instead of soy sauce. The subtle change in flavor won’t detract from the dish but will offer that nice salty tang essential for a good teriyaki. Also, adjusting the sweetness by either increasing or decreasing the honey can be based on personal preference; just keep in mind that the sauce should always balance the salty and sweet elements.

Perfecting the Chicken

Cooking the chicken properly is crucial for the texture of this dish. When sautéing the diced chicken, make sure to avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to allow for even browning and to ensure that the pieces cook through without becoming dry. The chicken should be golden on the outside and no longer pink in the center—this typically takes about 5-7 minutes at medium heat. A well-cooked chicken piece should feel firm to the touch yet remain juicy inside.

Once you pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, it’s important to keep the heat on medium-low to avoid caramelizing the sauce too quickly. You want to achieve a glossy finish that coats the chicken without burning. Stir occasionally, and watch closely as the sauce thickens; a good indication is when it starts to bubble slightly and adhere nicely to the chicken pieces.

Tasty Vegetable Combinations

The selection of vegetables in this recipe not only adds nutrition but also provides a delightful crunch. Broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots complement the tender chicken well, both in flavor and texture. For a vibrant presentation, consider slicing the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. If you're short on time, pre-cut vegetables or frozen versions can serve as a great substitute—just remember to adjust cooking times as needed since frozen vegetables may release extra moisture.

To add more variety, feel free to include snap peas, zucchini, or even mushrooms, depending on what you have on hand. Each vegetable brings its own unique flavor profile, and feel free to experiment seasonally. For a twist, toss in some leafy greens like spinach or kale right before serving for a nutrient boost, ensuring they wilt slightly but still retain a fresh taste.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Chicken and Sauce

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger

For the Vegetables and Rice

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup carrots, sliced
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of sesame oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken. Stir and cook on medium-low for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.

Prepare the Vegetables

In another skillet, add a splash of water and the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Steam them for 3-4 minutes until they are bright and tender-crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

To serve, place a scoop of brown rice in each bowl. Top with the teriyaki chicken and steamed vegetables. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for garnish.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what's in season. You can also substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl, presentation matters! Layer the brown rice first, making sure it's fluffy and warm, then artfully arrange the teriyaki chicken and colorful veggies on top. The contrasting colors not only make for a beautiful dish but also highlight the variety of nutrients you're getting in one meal. Drizzling a bit extra teriyaki sauce on top before garnishing can really elevate the flavor further.

For an extra crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts, like sesame seeds or sliced almonds, which can provide a nice contrast to the dish's tender elements. Additionally, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can cater to those who enjoy some heat.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the chicken and vegetables are warmed evenly without becoming overcooked or dry. Adding a splash of water can help create steam, making the reheating process quicker and preventing the chicken from toughening up.

For meal prep, consider making a larger batch of the teriyaki sauce and chicken in advance. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even tastier when served later. Just make sure to store the cooked chicken and sauce separately from the rice and vegetables until you're ready to serve, to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Absolutely! Just check the label for lower sugar options.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add avocado slices, nuts, or even different sauces for extra flavor.