Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls Recipe

If you’re anything like me and love having a delicious, healthy meal ready to go during hectic weekdays, then you’re going to fall head over heels for these Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls. They bring together tender, flavorful chicken drenched in a homemade teriyaki sauce paired with vibrant, crisp veggies and nutty brown rice or quinoa. This dish manages to be both comforting and fresh, making it the perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Plus, these bowls aren’t just tasty—they’re a total game-changer when it comes to quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll use simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role in creating those perfectly balanced Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls. From the protein-packed chicken breasts to the colorful mix of stir-fry veggies, every component works together to make this dish pop with flavor and texture.

• Chicken breasts (1.5 lbs, diced): The star protein that soaks up all the lovely teriyaki flavors while staying juicy and tender.
• Sesame oil (1.5 tbsp, divided): Adds a subtle nutty aroma and richness perfect for cooking both the chicken and veggies.
• Frozen stir-fry vegetables (4 cups): A convenient way to add crisp, colorful variety and nutrients without extra prep time.
• Brown rice or quinoa (2 cups, cooked): The wholesome, hearty base that soaks up every bit of sauce and ties the bowl together.
• Sesame seeds (1 tbsp): A simple garnish that adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the teriyaki sauce with a rich, savory depth.
• Fresh ginger (2 tbsp, grated): Brings a fresh, slightly spicy zing to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
• Raw honey (1.5 tbsp): Natural sweetness that helps mimic that classic teriyaki glaze.
• Coconut aminos (⅓ cup): A great gluten-free and soy-free alternative to soy sauce with a slightly sweet, savory flavor.
• Vegetable or chicken broth (½ cup): Adds moisture and depth making the sauce beautifully rich.
• Gluten-free flour (½ tbsp): Thickens the teriyaki sauce perfectly without any clumps.

How to Make Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

Start by combining minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, raw honey, coconut aminos, and broth in a small pot. Bring this fragrant mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Next, whisk in your gluten-free flour carefully and continue stirring until the sauce thickens to a glossy, luscious consistency. This homemade teriyaki sauce tastes way better than store-bought and is free from any preservatives or excess sugar.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until they turn golden on the outside and are cooked through inside—this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Once the chicken is ready, pour the teriyaki sauce over it and let everything simmer together for an additional 2 minutes so the sauce clings beautifully to each piece of chicken, coating it with that signature sticky-sweet glaze.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a separate pan, heat the remaining ½ tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in your frozen stir-fry vegetables and sauté them for 5 to 6 minutes until they’re just crisp-tender. This little bit of cooking keeps the veggies lively and fresh, adding a satisfying crunch and vibrant colors to your bowl.

Step 4: Assemble Your Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Divide your cooked brown rice or quinoa evenly into your meal prep containers. Next, top the grains with the luscious teriyaki chicken and equally portioned sautéed vegetables. To finish, sprinkle everything with sesame seeds, adding a lovely textural contrast and that final touch of nuttiness. Now your bowls are totally ready to be enjoyed all week long!

How to Serve Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Garnishes

Adding garnishes really elevates these Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls and transforms a simple lunch into something special. Freshly chopped scallions or thinly sliced green onions add a mild onion flavor and pop of green. A few red pepper flakes bring a subtle heat if you like a bit of spice, and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce amps up the sauciness for those extra saucy days. Even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds offers crunch and visual appeal that makes the dish irresistible.

Side Dishes

While these bowls are wonderfully complete on their own, pairing them with light, complementary sides can add dimension. Try a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar for balance. Miso soup is another cozy option that warms the soul without overwhelming the flavors in your bowl. Alternatively, steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a protein-packed, satisfying bite alongside your teriyaki chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress friends or elevate a simple meal, presentation can go a long way. Serve your Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls in beautiful ceramic or bamboo bowls for an authentic feel. Arrange your veggies and chicken in neat sections for eye-pleasing color blocking. You can also use lettuce leaves as cups for a fun, hand-held version that’s perfect for casual gatherings or picnics. Whatever way you choose, a little effort here brings big smiles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls are perfect for making in advance and storing in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the chicken, rice, and veggies together in airtight containers to preserve freshness. It’s best to store any extra sauce separately if you want to avoid sogginess and add it just before eating.

Freezing

If you want to make a large batch, these bowls freeze quite well. Assemble and cool the ingredients completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. To maintain the best texture, it’s a good idea to freeze rice, chicken, and veggies separately if possible. Label your containers, and use within 2 months for optimal flavor and quality.

Reheating

For reheating, microwave your Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls on medium power to ensure everything warms evenly without drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth before heating helps preserve moisture in the chicken and rice. If you prefer, heat the components gently on the stove with a lid on to retain that homemade sauce’s silky smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and have a bit more flavor, making them a delicious alternative for your Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Is there a dairy-free or gluten-free version of the teriyaki sauce?

Yes, this recipe already uses gluten-free flour to thicken and coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, making it both gluten-free and dairy-free. It’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.

Can I swap the vegetables for fresh ones instead of frozen?

For sure! Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or carrots work wonderfully if you prefer. Just sauté them until crisp-tender to keep that perfect texture in your bowls.

How long do Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls last in the fridge?

They stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days when properly stored in airtight containers. This makes them ideal for prepping your lunches at the start of the week.

What’s the best grain to use for these bowls?

Brown rice and quinoa are both fantastic choices, providing a nutty flavor and hearty texture. Quinoa also adds extra protein for a more filling meal, but choose whatever you love or have on hand.

Final Thoughts

These Meal Prep Teriyaki Chicken Bowls have become one of my all-time favorite go-to recipes for busy days when I want something healthy, satisfying, and seriously flavorful. The combination of homemade sauce, juicy chicken, and crisp veggies is simply unbeatable. I hope you give them a try—they truly make meal prep feel like a treat, not a chore!

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