Looking for a quick and tasty meal prep? My Easy Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep is just what you need! This recipe gives you delicious chicken paired with fluffy rice and fresh veggies. Perfect for busy days, it’s simple to make and packed with flavor. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have ready-to-eat meals for the week. Let’s get started on making your lunches a breeze!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Easy Teriyaki Chicken
To make Easy Teriyaki Chicken, gather these main ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 2 cups jasmine rice, uncooked
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
These ingredients create a rich flavor that makes this dish shine. The chicken thighs stay juicy, while the sauce gives it a sweet and savory taste.
Additional Ingredients for Garnish
To make your dish look appealing, use these garnish ingredients:
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
These garnishes add a nice crunch and fresh flavor. They also make your meal prep containers pop with color.
Essential Cooking Tools Needed
Here are the tools you will need for this recipe:
– Large bowl for marinating
– Pot for cooking rice
– Pot for blanching vegetables
– Large skillet or wok for cooking chicken
– Meal prep containers for storage
Using the right tools makes cooking easier and more fun. You can find many of these items in your kitchen already. For the full recipe, check out the Easy Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
Start by making the marinade. In a big bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. This mix gives your chicken great flavor. Cut the chicken thighs into small pieces, then add them to the bowl. Make sure they are all coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it sit for up to 2 hours. This wait makes the chicken even better.
Cooking the Rice
While the chicken marinates, let’s cook the rice. Rinse 2 cups of jasmine rice under cold water until the water is clear. This step helps remove extra starch. In a pot, add the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil. Then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. When the rice is fluffy and the water is gone, take it off the heat. Let it sit covered for another 5 minutes.
Preparing the Vegetables
Next, we need to prepare the veggies. Boil a pot of water and add the broccoli florets and sliced bell peppers. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them bright and tender-crisp. Once done, drain the water and set the veggies aside. They will add color and crunch to your meal.
Cooking the Chicken
Now it’s time to cook the chicken. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, along with all the marinade. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to cook the chicken evenly. When the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens, it’s ready.
Assembling the Meal Prep
Grab your meal prep containers. Start by dividing the cooked rice among them. Next, add the chicken mixture on top of the rice. Finally, distribute the cooked broccoli and bell peppers evenly. This creates a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and veggies.
Final Garnishing and Storing Tips
For the finishing touch, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on each meal. This adds flavor and a nice look. Let the containers cool down before sealing them. Store your Easy Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can enjoy a tasty meal anytime!
Tips & Tricks
How to Enhance the Flavor of Teriyaki Chicken
To boost the taste of your teriyaki chicken, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and ginger bring a strong flavor. You can also add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for a fruity twist. If you like heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Marinating for longer makes the chicken juicier. Aim for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for two hours.
Perfect Rice Cooking Techniques
Cooking jasmine rice is simple. Rinse it well to remove starch. This helps the rice stay fluffy. Use a pot with a tight lid. For perfect rice, the ratio is 1 cup rice to 2 cups water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. After cooking, let it rest covered for 5 minutes. This step makes the rice even better.
Meal Prep Container Recommendations
Choosing the right meal prep containers is key. I prefer glass containers for easy reheating. They don’t stain and keep food fresh. Make sure they have tight lids to prevent spills. Divide your meals into portions. This helps with grab-and-go meals. Look for containers that are microwave and dishwasher safe. This makes cleanup a breeze. For this recipe, use medium-sized containers. They fit the chicken, rice, and veggies nicely.
Variations
Substitutions for Chicken Thighs
You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Breasts are leaner but still tasty. You can also use tofu for a plant-based option. Just cut it into cubes and marinate the same way. If you’re looking for something unique, try shrimp or pork. Both work well with teriyaki sauce.
Alternative Vegetables to Use
If you want to change up the veggies, there are many options. Snap peas add crunch and sweetness. Carrots bring color and a nice bite. Zucchini can soak up the sauce well. You might also like baby corn or mushrooms for extra flavor. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Glaze and Sauce Variations
The teriyaki sauce can be adjusted to fit your taste. You can add honey for a sweeter kick. A splash of lime juice gives it a tangy twist. For more heat, add red pepper flakes or sriracha. If you like a thicker sauce, add cornstarch mixed with water. Feel free to experiment for your perfect glaze!
For the full recipe, check out the Easy Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep section.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Refrigerating Meal Prep
Store your Easy Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep in airtight containers. This keeps the chicken fresh and moist. Ensure the containers cool down before sealing them. Label each container with the date you made the meal. This helps you track freshness.
Freezing Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep
You can freeze your meal prep for later use. Place the chicken and rice in separate containers. This keeps the rice from getting mushy. Make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. To avoid freezer burn, wrap the containers tightly in plastic wrap.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use a microwave or a skillet. For the microwave, heat the meal for 1-2 minutes on high. If using a skillet, add a splash of water to prevent sticking. Heat over medium-low until warm. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. This keeps the flavors intact and the chicken juicy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can! You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. You can also try pork, beef, or tofu. Each meat gives a different taste and texture. Just adjust cooking times based on the meat you choose.
How long will Easy Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep last in the fridge?
This meal prep lasts up to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in airtight containers. This keeps the chicken moist and the veggies fresh.
What is the best way to reheat the meal prep?
To reheat, place the meal prep in the microwave. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also use a skillet on low heat. Just add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I make the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the marinade a day ahead. Just mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This saves time on meal prep day.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, it is! You can freeze the cooked chicken and veggies. Just place them in freezer-safe containers. They will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat.
You learned how to make easy teriyaki chicken and meal prep with it. We covered the important ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to enhance the meal. You now know variations and how to store your food safely. With this knowledge, you can enjoy quick, delicious dinners. Cooking does not need to be hard or boring. Use these methods to impress friends and family with tasty meals. Getting creative with this recipe can lead to exciting flavors. Enjoy your cooking journey!
