Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

Name: Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup snap peas; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Highlighted under: Wellness Table Creations

I love making this Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl because it brings together vibrant flavors and tons of nutrients in one dish. The combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a homemade teriyaki sauce feels indulgent while remaining light. With this recipe, I can easily customize each bowl with whatever vegetables I have on hand, ensuring that we eat healthily without sacrificing taste. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-28T00:29:34.665Z

When I first tried making a teriyaki chicken bowl at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was. I replaced store-bought sauces with a simple DIY teriyaki sauce that cuts down on sugar while enhancing the flavor. The secret is using fresh ginger and garlic—they really elevate the dish.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can swap out the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option, or add whatever veggies you like. Each time I make it, I discover new combinations that are equally delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious homemade teriyaki sauce that’s low in sugar
Fresh and colorful vegetables for a nutrient boost
Easy to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies

Perfecting the Teriyaki Sauce

The homemade teriyaki sauce in this dish is what truly elevates it. I recommend tasting the sauce as you cook to ensure it meets your flavor profile. If you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce, feel free to add a touch more honey or maple syrup. For those looking to reduce sodium, a low-sodium soy sauce works well without compromising flavor.

When mixing the cornstarch with water, ensure there are no lumps. This mixture acts as a thickener, giving the sauce that lovely glossy finish. Be attentive to the cooking time—you’ll want to cook until the sauce coats the back of a spoon, which usually takes around two minutes. If you find it too thick, adding a splash of water can help adjust the consistency.

Choosing and Preparing Vegetables

This Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl is incredibly versatile when it comes to vegetables. While broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas offer great texture and flavor, you can easily substitute with zucchini, carrots, or even bok choy. Just ensure that whatever vegetables you choose are cut into similar sizes to promote even cooking.

For the stir-fry, I recommend using a non-stick skillet or a wok to prevent sticking and ensure even charring. Keep the heat at medium-high to quickly sear the vegetables while maintaining their crispness. Always remember to keep them moving in the pan to avoid burning, stirring frequently for about 4–5 minutes until they turn vibrant but maintain some crunch.

Assembling Your Bowl

Layering your bowl effectively can enhance both the presentation and the eating experience. Start with a generous base of brown rice, as it's not only filling but also provides essential fiber and nutrients. Use a measuring cup to portion out the rice for consistency and to prevent overloading your bowl.

Drizzling leftover teriyaki sauce on top not only adds extra flavor but also assists in melding the tastes together. If you're serving this for guests, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or sliced green onions to add a pop of color and a contrasting texture. This simple addition can make a homemade meal feel more gourmet.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal:

For the Chicken Bowl

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup snap peas
2 cups cooked brown rice

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to create a delicious bowl!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your teriyaki chicken bowl:

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook until thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In another pan, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 4–5 minutes until just tender but still crisp.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide cooked brown rice among bowls. Top with teriyaki chicken and stir-fried vegetables. Drizzle any leftover sauce over the top and serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade healthy teriyaki chicken bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand for a different flavor each time. For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This teriyaki chicken bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the teriyaki sauce and chop vegetables in advance to save time on busy weeknights. The sauce can be refrigerated for up to a week—just remember to give it a quick stir or heat to re-emulsify the ingredients before using.

The cooked chicken and vegetables can also be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. For those who prefer fresh vegetables, consider sautéing them just before serving to maintain their crisp texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your teriyaki sauce turns out too salty, try adding a pinch of brown sugar or honey to balance out the flavors. Alternatively, using unsweetened pineapple juice can add a nice sweetness and cut through the saltiness effectively.

Overcooked chicken can happen if you leave it in the skillet for too long. If this happens, pulling it off the heat just when it achieves a golden hue will ensure it stays tender. Also, continually stirring the chicken in the sauce can help coat it without overcooking.

Serving Variations

Feel free to experiment with different grains as the base for your bowl. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be excellent substitutes for brown rice, providing varied textures and flavors. This option is particularly appealing for those looking to reduce carbohydrates.

For added protein, consider including a hard-boiled egg or some edamame on the side. These not only enhance the nutritional value but also provide additional color and texture contrast to your bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use the same teriyaki sauce.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! You can add any vegetables you like, such as carrots, zucchini, or even leafy greens.

→ Is the teriyaki sauce gluten-free?

To make the sauce gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce.