Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls Recipe

If you’ve been on the lookout for a delicious and hassle-free dinner that keeps well throughout the week, you simply must try these Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken drenched in a homemade, glossy teriyaki sauce paired with vibrant stir-fried vegetables and hearty brown rice or quinoa, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re nourishing yourself after a long day or preparing meals ahead for a busy week, these bowls offer a comforting taste of home with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls lies in a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the chicken provides satisfying protein, the sesame oil lends a toasty depth, and the stir-fried veggies add crunch and color. Meanwhile, the homemade teriyaki sauce brings a perfect sweet-savory glaze that ties everything together beautifully.

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, diced: Choose fresh or well-thawed chicken breast for tender, juicy bites.
• 1.5 tbsp sesame oil, divided: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances both chicken and veggies.
• 4 cups frozen stir-fry vegetables: Convenient and colorful mix for crunch and nutrients.
• 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa: Nutty and filling grains to base your bowl.
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish: Adds a subtle crunch and a touch of elegance.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with sharp, aromatic undertones.
• 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated: Offers zesty brightness and warmth to the teriyaki glaze.
• 1.5 tbsp raw honey: Balances the savory with natural sweetness.
• ⅓ cup coconut aminos: A soy sauce alternative that’s slightly sweeter and gluten-free.
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth: Adds depth and helps thin the sauce before thickening.
• ½ tbsp gluten-free flour: Used to create a luscious, thick sauce coating the chicken perfectly.

How to Make Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Step 1: Whip Up the Teriyaki Sauce

Start your culinary adventure by combining the fresh garlic, grated ginger, sweet honey, coconut aminos, and broth in a small pot. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Then whisk in the gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce, stirring constantly until it reaches a glossy, irresistible consistency. This homemade sauce truly elevates the dish, delivering that classic teriyaki charm without any preservative baggage.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat—this is where the magic begins. Toss in your diced chicken breasts and let them sizzle until they’re golden and perfectly cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once your chicken pieces are glistening and cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce over them, allowing the sauce to simmer and coat every morsel in its flavorful embrace for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

While the chicken soaks up all that delicious sauce, heat the remaining sesame oil in another pan. Add the frozen stir-fry vegetables straight from the freezer—they’ll cook quickly, becoming crisp-tender in just 5 to 6 minutes. This step keeps the vegetables fresh and vibrant in both color and texture, adding a lovely balance to the meal.

Step 4: Assemble Your Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa evenly into your meal prep containers or bowls. Spoon over the saucy teriyaki chicken and then add your sautéed vegetables on the side. A final sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a subtle crunch and makes the presentation pop. Your bowls are now ready to enjoy immediately or stash away for an easy weekday lunch or dinner!

How to Serve Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Garnishes

While sesame seeds are a classic topping here, don’t hesitate to get creative. Thinly sliced green onions or a handful of chopped fresh cilantro can add fresh, herbaceous notes that brighten the rich flavors. A light drizzle of sriracha or a squeeze of lime can offer a playful kick that keeps things exciting.

Side Dishes

Though these Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls are a complete meal on their own, pairing them with a simple miso soup or a crisp cucumber salad can elevate the dining experience. Light and refreshing sides contrast the hearty bowls perfectly, making your meals feel well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress friends or just make your weekly meals more fun, try serving these bowls in stylish glass containers or cute bento boxes. Let layers peek through the sides so the colorful veggies and saucy chicken shine. Garnishing each bowl right before serving also adds a fresh touch that’s visually delightful and appetizing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls are tailor-made for storing. Keep your bowls refrigerated in airtight containers for up to 4 days, making them perfect for busy weekdays. The flavors meld beautifully over time, meaning every bite tastes just as delicious as day one.

Freezing

While freezing is an option, it’s best to freeze components separately—store the cooked chicken with sauce in one container and the rice or quinoa in another. Vegetables tend to lose their crispness after freezing and thawing. This method helps retain the best possible texture when you reheat later.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, simply microwave your bowl for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through, stirring halfway to ensure even warming. Adding a sprinkle of fresh sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime after reheating refreshes the dish and revives those bright flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and stay moist during cooking, making them a fantastic alternative if you prefer a slightly more indulgent bite in your Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls.

Is there an easy vegetarian substitute for this recipe?

You can swap out the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh, marinating it in the teriyaki sauce before pan-frying. The sauce’s deep flavors mesh beautifully with these plant-based proteins for a satisfying vegetarian meal prep option.

Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The homemade teriyaki sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Making it ahead of time saves you cooking steps on busy days and lets the flavors deepen even more.

What if I don’t have coconut aminos?

If coconut aminos aren’t available, you can substitute with a gluten-free tamari or soy sauce. Keep in mind tamari is saltier, so adjust the honey a little if desired to maintain balance.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp in Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls?

The key is to sauté the vegetables until just tender and slightly crisp, then cool them completely before assembling the bowls. Storing veggies separately from the sauce and reheating briefly also helps retain their crunch.

Final Thoughts

Ready to enliven your weekly meals with something that’s flavorful, wholesome, and so easy to make? These Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls might just become your new favorite go-to! They blend convenience and taste in a way that feels truly special every time. Give them a try—you’ll love how this simple recipe turns routine meal prep into something you actually look forward to.

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