Teriyaki Chicken Casserole

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for GF)
• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1½ tsp cornst starch + 1 tbsp cold water (slurry)

💡 Pro Tips:

• Use uncooked rice—it absorbs flavor as it bakes.
• Don’t skip cornstarch—it thickens the sauce into a glossy glaze.
• Fresh ginger > ground—it adds brightness!

Step-by-Step Instructions (Savory, Hands-Off, Foolproof)

1. Prep & Layer

• Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
• Spread uncooked rice evenly on the bottom.
• Top with chicken, vegetables, and onion (if using).

2. Make the Sauce

• In a saucepan, whisk soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger.
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
• Stir in cornstarch slurry; cook 1–2 minutes until thickened and glossy.

3. Assemble & Bake

• Pour teriyaki sauce evenly over casserole (don’t stir!).
• Cover tightly with foil.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes.
• Remove foil; bake 5–10 minutes more if rice isn’t tender or liquid remains.

4. Rest & Serve

• Let stand 5–10 minutes—rice will absorb remaining liquid.
• Fluff gently with a fork.
• Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

• 🥢 Classic pairing: With extra steamed broccoli or edamame
• 🍚 Rice boost: Drizzle with extra sauce or sriracha mayo
• 🥢 Interactive meal: Serve with chopsticks and extra teriyaki for dipping
• 🍵 Drink pairing: Green tea or sparkling water with lime

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Fridge: Keeps up to 4 days—great for lunches!
• Freeze: Freeze baked casserole up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat covered.
• Prep ahead: Chop chicken/veggies; store separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Gluten-free?A: Yes! Use tamari and certified GF rice.

Q: Can I use brown rice?A: Yes—but increase liquid to 2½ cups and bake 60–70 mins.

Q: No cornstarch?A: Substitute with 1 tbsp arrowroot or flour slurry.

Q: Too salty?A: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt.

❤️ The Heart of the Casserole

Teriyaki Chicken Casserole isn’t just convenient—it’s a warm embrace on a plate. It brings takeout joy into your kitchen with real ingredients, no delivery fees, and all the comfort.

So layer that rice, pour that sauce, and trust the oven. Because the best meals aren’t complicated—they’re sweet, savory, and made with love.

“Good casserole doesn’t need a recipe—it just needs chicken, rice, and someone hungry.” 🍗✨