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If you’re craving a dish that brings together the irresistible flavors of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the perfect hint of sweet-savory sauce, then the Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole Recipe is just what you need. This casserole is a comforting, yet exciting meal that’s packed with texture and bold taste, all coming together in a simple, fuss-free way. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but special enough to impress family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole Recipe is straightforward but plays an essential role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. From protein to veggies and all the way to the sauce, every component contributes to making this casserole both delicious and satisfying.
- 1 pound raw diced chicken: Tender, juicy chicken forms the hearty base of the casserole, delivering satisfying protein in every bite.
- 2 cups instant rice: Quick and convenient, instant rice cooks fast while providing a soft, fluffy texture that complements the other ingredients.
- 3 cups frozen mixed vegetables: A colorful blend of carrots, peas, and broccoli adds crunch, nutrition, and vibrant hues.
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce: This sauce is the magic touch, infusing the entire casserole with that signature sweet and savory glaze everyone loves.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Necessary for cooking the chicken evenly without sticking—bringing out its golden-brown goodness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a fragrant layer of flavor that deepens the overall taste without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate and balance every ingredient to perfection.
- Optional garnish – sesame seeds and sliced green onions: Small touches that bring texture, color, and a little extra freshness when serving.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Marinate
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bake the casserole when you are. In a large bowl, toss the diced chicken with half a cup of teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Letting the chicken marinate for about five minutes allows those flavors to seep in, giving the meat a head start on being tender and tasty.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Adding the marinated chicken to the hot pan, cook it for 5 to 7 minutes or until it’s mostly cooked through and beautifully browned on the outside. This step is crucial for locking in juices and building flavor before combining everything in the casserole dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice
While your chicken is cooking, follow the package instructions to prepare the instant rice. Typically, this involves boiling water, adding the rice, and letting it sit covered for about five minutes. The rice’s light and fluffy texture provides a perfect counterpoint to the hearty chicken and crisp vegetables.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once your chicken and rice are ready, it’s time to bring the casserole together. In a large casserole dish, mix the cooked chicken, prepared rice, frozen mixed vegetables, and the remaining half cup of teriyaki sauce. Stir everything thoroughly so that every bite will have a balanced taste of protein, starch, vegetables, and sauce.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your casserole dish tightly with foil to keep the moisture in, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, just long enough to heat the vegetables through and let the flavors meld into a rich, comforting dish. The result is a warm, inviting casserole that smells as amazing as it tastes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven, and if you like, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top. These garnishes add a lovely crunch and a fresh brightness that elevates the entire dish, making it visually appealing and extra tasty.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sesame seeds bring a nutty crunch that complements the sticky teriyaki sauce, while sliced green onions add a fresh, oniony bite. Together, these garnishes highlight the comforting yet vibrant character of the casserole.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple when serving sides to let the casserole shine. A crisp green salad or steamed edamame pairs wonderfully by adding extra texture and wholesome balance without overpowering the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve this casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a cozy, personal touch. Alternatively, layering the casserole in a clear baking dish lets the layers showcase their colors beautifully at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole Recipe can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making for some tasty meals later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, you can freeze the casserole before baking or after it has cooled. Wrap tightly with foil or place in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot throughout. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating can help maintain moistness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like diced carrots, chopped broccoli, and peas can be used and will provide a wonderful crunch and flavor. Just adjust the baking time slightly to ensure they cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free teriyaki sauce and confirm that your instant rice or any seasonings used do not contain gluten. This way, the casserole stays safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I substitute brown rice for instant white rice?
You can, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook. It’s best to prepare the brown rice ahead of time separately and then assemble the casserole just before baking.
How spicy is this casserole?
This casserole is mild and family-friendly, with a gentle sweetness from the teriyaki sauce. If you love a kick, you could add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce either during cooking or at the table.
Can I add other proteins?
Definitely! Shrimp, tofu, or even sliced beef work well in this casserole; just adjust cooking times to suit the protein you choose to keep everything perfectly cooked.
Final Thoughts
The Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole Recipe is a warm, inviting dish that brings together simple ingredients with brilliant flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress guests effortlessly, this casserole promises comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to weeknight favorite!
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Print
Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-American
Description
This Teriyaki Chicken & Stir Fry Casserole is a delightful blend of tender chicken, flavorful teriyaki sauce, and nutritious mixed vegetables, all combined with convenient instant rice. Easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner, this casserole offers a savory-sweet Asian-inspired flavor baked to perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 pound raw diced chicken
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups instant rice
- 3 cups frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, broccoli, or your choice)
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce (remaining)
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the diced chicken with ½ cup teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Allow it to marinate for about 5 minutes so the flavors infuse the meat.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is mostly cooked through and slightly browned.
- Prepare the Rice: While cooking the chicken, prepare the instant rice according to the package instructions, typically involving boiling water, adding the rice, and covering it for about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked chicken, prepared rice, frozen mixed vegetables, and the remaining ½ cup of teriyaki sauce. Stir everything thoroughly until well mixed.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving for an added crunch and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Use any frozen mixed vegetables you prefer or have on hand, such as bell peppers or snap peas for variation.
- Marinating the chicken enhances the flavor but can be skipped if short on time; just cook immediately after tossing with sauce and seasoning.
- Ensure the casserole is covered while baking to retain moisture and help cook the vegetables evenly.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade or the casserole mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in an oven or microwave.
