If you’re looking for a dish that balances the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and spicy, look no further than Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice! This delicious one-pan meal features tender chicken thighs in a flavorful, rich teriyaki sauce, served with a hearty helping of rice and vibrant vegetables. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that brings the flavors of your favorite Asian-inspired dishes right to your kitchen. Plus, the combination of sweet honey, brown sugar, and a dash of red pepper flakes for heat will leave your taste buds dancing.

Let’s dive into how to make this mouth-watering dish that’s bound to become a family favorite!

What Makes Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice So Special?

A Perfect Combination of Sweet, Spicy, and Savory

The Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice recipe brings together a balance of rich, bold flavors. The teriyaki sauce adds a savory base, while the honey and brown sugar create a deep sweetness. For those who love a little kick, the crushed red pepper flakes offer a spicy finish without overpowering the dish. This contrast of sweet and heat is what makes the dish uniquely irresistible.

One-Pan Meal for Easy Cleanup

This recipe not only delivers incredible flavor, but it also simplifies your dinner routine. It’s cooked all in one pan, meaning less cleanup time afterward. From the searing of the chicken to simmering the rice and vegetables, you won’t have a ton of dishes to wash after you enjoy this amazing meal.

Comfort Food with a Healthy Twist

While Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice is packed with flavor, it’s also a balanced meal. The chicken provides lean protein, while the peas and carrots contribute essential nutrients and vibrant color to the dish. With the addition of brown rice, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that can easily be enjoyed on any weeknight.

Ingredients for Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice

This easy recipe requires only a few basic ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to make Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into chunks): Chicken thighs provide more flavor and tenderness than chicken breasts, making them the perfect choice for this dish.
1 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chicken and starting the cooking process.
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed: Rinsing the rice ensures it cooks evenly and prevents it from becoming too sticky.
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth: This will help cook the rice and create a flavorful base for the dish.
1 cup teriyaki sauce: The main flavoring for the chicken. Use low-sodium if you’re looking to reduce sodium content.
2 tbsp soy sauce: A salty, savory addition to the teriyaki sauce that gives it depth and richness.
2 tbsp honey: For sweetness and a smooth consistency in the sauce.
1 tbsp brown sugar: This enhances the sweetness and adds a caramelized flavor to the sauce.
1 tsp garlic powder: Adds savory depth to the dish.
½ tsp ground ginger: Offers a subtle spiciness and warmth.
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a bit of heat. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots: For a pop of color and nutrients.
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): For a fresh, crisp finish.
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional for garnish): Adds crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

Pro Tip:

If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a touch of Sriracha sauce to the dish when stirring in the sauce.

How to Make Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized chunks) to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned on all sides. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds a rich flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Add the Teriyaki Sauce and Rice

After the chicken is browned, stir in the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic powder, ginger, and red pepper flakes. This creates a rich, flavorful sauce that will coat the chicken and rice. Next, add the rinsed rice and pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is evenly distributed and covered in the sauce.

Step 3: Simmer Covered

Once everything is in the pan, bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. This allows the rice to cook and absorb the flavorful broth and sauce. You’ll know the dish is done when the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Let them cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re heated through. This adds color, texture, and a nutritional boost to your meal.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the dish is fully cooked, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an added burst of flavor and crunch. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious combination of sticky sweetness, savory richness, and just the right amount of heat.

Tips for Making the Best Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice

1. Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs for More Flavor

While chicken breasts can be used, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best option for this recipe. They’re more flavorful and stay moist during cooking, giving the dish a juicy, tender texture. Thighs also hold up well in the teriyaki sauce, absorbing the flavors beautifully.

2. Rinse the Rice for Best Results

Rinsing the rice before cooking helps to remove excess starch, which can make the rice sticky. This results in fluffy, tender rice that pairs perfectly with the saucy chicken.

3. Customize the Heat

Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your personal spice preference. If you want to go extra spicy, consider adding a splash of Sriracha sauce or even a chopped jalapeño pepper.

4. Experiment with Vegetables

Feel free to customize the vegetables in the dish. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even baby corn would all work wonderfully in place of peas and carrots. Add your favorite vegetables to make this dish your own!

Nutritional Information for Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 60g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 3g

The Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice is a balanced meal, offering lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the rice and vegetables, and a satisfying combination of healthy fats. It’s an excellent option for a filling weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you love Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice, here are a few more delicious recipes you might enjoy:

Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry – A hearty stir fry with tender steak and succulent shrimp.
Caribbean Chicken and Rice – A flavorful take on chicken and rice with a Caribbean twist.
Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf – A savory, cheesy meatloaf wrapped in crispy bacon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs in this recipe?
While chicken thighs add more flavor and tenderness to the dish, you can substitute chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be leaner and might require a bit more attention to avoid overcooking. Be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to keep them moist and tender.

2. How can I adjust the spiciness in Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice?
To control the spiciness, you can either reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes or adjust the amount to suit your taste. For a milder dish, simply skip the red pepper flakes, or for more heat, increase the quantity. You can also add chili paste or sriracha for an extra kick.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to bring back the moisture in the rice. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy days!

4. What can I serve with Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice?
To complete your meal, consider serving the dish with a side of steamed vegetables, like broccoli or bok choy, for extra nutrients. You can also serve it alongside a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the rich, sweet, and spicy flavors of the chicken and rice.

Conclusion

Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice is the ultimate combination of flavor, ease, and satisfaction. With juicy chicken, tender rice, and a vibrant mix of veggies all cooked together in one pot, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a special meal with family and friends. The sweet and spicy teriyaki sauce brings everything together in a flavorful, hearty dish that’s sure to be a hit.

Whether you’re craving Asian-inspired cuisine or simply looking for a new, easy recipe to add to your rotation, Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice should definitely be at the top of your list. Give it a try today and enjoy this flavorful, comforting dish in just one pan!

Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice: Quick & Tasty

Author: Time of Recipes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice combines tender chicken chunks, a flavorful sweet and spicy teriyaki sauce, and savory rice. This quick, one-pan dish is perfect for busy nights, offering a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory in every bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup teriyaki sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chicken chunks and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned.
Add Sauce & Rice: Stir in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic powder, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add rice and chicken broth.
Simmer Covered: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, until rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Add Veggies: Stir in frozen peas and carrots, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the veggies are heated through.
Garnish & Serve: Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For extra heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or drizzle some sriracha over the dish before serving.
For a slightly different twist, try using brown rice or jasmine rice in place of white rice.
You can prepare this recipe in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you prefer a sweeter dish, add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 430 kcal
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Sticky Sweet Heat Teriyaki Chicken & Rice, teriyaki chicken, chicken and rice, sweet and spicy chicken, one-pan meal, easy chicken recipe, rice dish, quick dinner