If you’re looking for a dish that’s savory, comforting, and just the right amount of sweet, Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is your new go-to! Imagine tender chunks of chicken, perfectly coated in rich, sweet-and-savory teriyaki sauce, nestled in a cheesy, creamy base with a subtle crunch from the vegetables. It’s like a tropical vacation in a casserole, but with the warmth and coziness of a home-cooked meal. This casserole is the kind of dish that feels like a big hug on a plate, and trust me, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a casual dinner, or simply craving something a little different, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. The flavor balance between the teriyaki sauce, chicken, and cheese is totally irresistible. And let’s not forget the crunchy topping that adds the perfect finishing touch. This one is definitely going to become a family favorite in no time!
Why You’ll Love Teriyaki Chicken Casserole
Here’s why this casserole is worth making:
Sweet and Savory Flavors
The teriyaki sauce is sweet, savory, and just the right amount of tangy. When mixed with tender chicken, melted cheese, and other ingredients, it creates a flavor explosion that you’ll want to savor with every bite.
Quick and Easy
This casserole is perfect for busy nights. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can have a hearty meal on the table in under an hour. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!
Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike will love this casserole. It’s got that perfect combination of cheesy, tender, and flavorful that makes it universally appealing. It’s a guaranteed hit at the dinner table!
Comfort Food with a Twist
While it has that comforting casserole vibe, the teriyaki sauce gives it a unique twist. If you’re craving something new but still want the coziness of a classic casserole, this one’s for you!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Teriyaki Chicken Casserole:
For the Casserole:
- Chicken breast: Tender, juicy chicken is the star of this dish, providing lean protein and flavor.
- Teriyaki sauce: The key to the sweet and savory flavor profile. Choose a good-quality teriyaki sauce for the best results.
- Cooked rice: You’ll need a base for the casserole, and rice is perfect for soaking up all the flavor.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of your favorites gives the casserole that rich, melty goodness.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: A blend of vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn adds color, flavor, and nutrients.
- Cream of chicken soup: This helps bind everything together and gives the casserole its creamy texture.
- Soy sauce: Adds a little extra umami and depth of flavor to complement the teriyaki.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious casserole!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts until they’re no longer pink and fully cooked through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then shred the chicken using two forks.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and cream of chicken soup. Stir until smooth and well combined. This will be the sauce that ties everything together.
Step 4: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, frozen mixed vegetables, and cheese. Pour the sauce mixture over everything and stir to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top with a little extra cheese if you’d like a cheesy, bubbly crust.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want a crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Dish it up and enjoy this flavorful, comforting meal!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 380
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 720mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 28g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Casserole
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be paired with a few tasty sides for a more rounded meal. Here are some ideas:
Fresh Green Salad
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the casserole.
Steamed Vegetables
Pair the casserole with some steamed broccoli or asparagus for an extra boost of nutrients and a bit of crunch.
Garlic Bread
If you’re craving something with a bit more indulgence, serve this casserole with warm, garlic bread for dipping into the cheesy goodness.
Pickled Veggies
Pickled carrots or cucumbers add a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the casserole.
Additional Tips
Use Rotisserie Chicken
To save time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken breasts. It’s a great shortcut and adds even more flavor!
Add Pineapple
If you love the sweet-savory combo of teriyaki, try adding a small can of pineapple chunks to the casserole. The sweetness from the pineapple pairs beautifully with the teriyaki sauce.
Make it Spicy
For a spicy twist, add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce. It’ll bring a nice heat to balance out the sweetness.
Make Ahead
This casserole is great for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.
Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A1: Absolutely! Brown rice is a great substitute, though it may need a little extra cooking time before adding it to the casserole.
Q2: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A2: Yes! You can use fresh veggies. Just make sure to chop them into small, bite-sized pieces and cook them slightly before mixing them into the casserole.
Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can prep it the night before. Just store it in the fridge, and bake it the next day. It’ll be even more flavorful!
Q4: Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
A4: To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese substitute and a dairy-free cream soup, like a coconut milk-based version.
Q5: Can I freeze this casserole?
A5: Yes, this casserole freezes really well. Assemble it, but don’t bake it, then cover it tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight and then bake as usual.
Q6: Can I add shrimp to this casserole?
A6: Yes! Shrimp would be a fantastic addition, adding an extra layer of flavor. Just cook the shrimp separately, then fold them into the casserole mixture before baking.
Q7: Can I use a different type of meat?
A7: Definitely! Ground beef, pork, or even tofu can work as great substitutes for chicken in this casserole.
Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A8: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q9: Can I use low-sodium teriyaki sauce?
A9: Yes, if you’re watching your sodium intake, you can easily swap out regular teriyaki sauce for a low-sodium version without compromising too much on flavor.
Q10: Can I add more cheese?
A10: Absolutely! Feel free to add extra cheese on top before baking if you love that gooey, cheesy finish. It will just make it even more indulgent!
Conclusion
Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and cheesy comfort food all in one dish. It’s easy to make, customizable to your tastes, and a surefire hit at dinner time. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a favorite. Grab your ingredients, start cooking, and get ready to enjoy a hearty meal that’s full of flavor!
PrintTeriyaki Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish featuring tender chicken, a savory teriyaki sauce, and a perfect blend of vegetables and rice, all baked to perfection. It’s a comforting, one-pan meal that’s easy to make and sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (preferably rotisserie chicken)
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, teriyaki sauce, peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with shredded cheese and chopped green onions, if using.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for this dish to save time.
- For a healthier version, try using brown rice and low-sodium teriyaki sauce.
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking.
- For extra flavor, you can drizzle additional teriyaki sauce on top of the casserole before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/6th of the casserole)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg