If you’re on the hunt for a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s ready in no time, this Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe will quickly become your go-to dinner. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a perfectly balanced homemade teriyaki sauce, it’s one of those dishes that makes healthy eating feel like a treat—without any fuss. Trust me, I love this recipe because it’s simple to whip up but tastes incredible every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homey but don’t have hours to cook.
- Healthy Ingredients: Lean chicken breast paired with fresh veggies makes this bowl nourishing without weighing you down.
- Flavorful Teriyaki Sauce: Sweetened naturally with honey and boosted by fresh ginger and garlic—no bottled sauces full of sugar here.
- Customizable: Easy to swap out veggies or add your favorite toppings to make it truly your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
I find that simple, fresh ingredients really shine in this Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role to build layers of flavor without complicating things—perfect for anyone new to home cooking or just wanting a fuss-free meal.

- Chicken breast: I prefer boneless, skinless for easy prep and lean protein.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning to bring out natural chicken flavor.
- Toasted sesame oil: Adds that subtle nutty aroma that’s signature to Asian-inspired cooking.
- Minced garlic: Fresh is best for punchy flavor.
- Fresh grated ginger: I always grate ginger myself—it adds brightness and depth.
- Chopped green onion (white part): For savory undertones in the chicken.
- Low sodium soy sauce or tamari: I go for low sodium to keep it healthier without sacrificing umami.
- Low sodium chicken broth: Boosts flavor while keeping the sauce light.
- Rice vinegar: Brings a bit of tang to balance the sweetness.
- Honey: My natural sweetener of choice—feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce into the perfect glossy consistency.
- Water: Mixed with cornstarch to create a smooth slurry.
- Red bell pepper: Adds crunch and a pop of color.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, the perfect green for nutrition and texture.
Variations
I love to switch things up with this Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe depending on what’s in my fridge or to fit different dietary needs—feel free to customize and make it your own kitchen classic.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist that’s just as satisfying.
- Extra Veggies: I sometimes throw in snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms for more color and crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha if you like a little heat—you’ll find it elevates the sauce beautifully.
- Grain Swap: Instead of rice, try cauliflower rice or quinoa to keep it low-carb or boost protein.
How to Make Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season Your Chicken
Start by pounding the chicken breast to about a half-inch thickness—that helps it cook evenly and stay juicy. Then cut it into roughly one-inch cubes. Toss those bite-sized pieces with salt and pepper to season. I find this simple step makes the chicken taste homemade and deliciously flavorful.
Step 2: Sauté Chicken with Aromatics
Heat your skillet over medium heat and add toasted sesame oil—this oil is like a flavor bomb. Throw in the minced garlic, fresh grated ginger, and the white part of green onions. Once fragrant (think about 30 seconds), add the seasoned chicken cubes. Let everything cook together, flipping the chicken pieces to get a golden-brown crust. Usually, 2–3 minutes per side does the trick. Don’t rush this; the color and texture here really build flavor.
Step 3: Cook Your Veggies
Transfer the chicken to a plate for now and toss the chopped red bell pepper and broccoli into the same pan. If it looks dry, add a little more of that sesame oil—you want just enough to keep everything sizzling. Sauté the veggies until tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes. They should be bright and fresh—overcooking broccoli is a trap I’ve fallen into plenty of times!
Step 4: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
While veggies are cooking, whisk the cornstarch with water until smooth—this slurry will thicken the sauce without lumps. Then in a bowl, combine soy sauce (or tamari), chicken broth, rice vinegar, honey, and the cornstarch slurry. This combo is what brings the magic; the honey gives just the right touch of sweetness while keeping it wholesome.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add the chicken back into the pan with the veggies, pour the sauce over, and let everything simmer together for a few minutes. You’ll see the sauce thicken and coat every piece perfectly. Check the chicken’s doneness by cutting a piece in half; it should be cooked through with no pink. That’s it—you’re almost ready to dig in!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the teriyaki chicken and veggies over your favorite cooked rice (brown rice is my personal favorite—it adds extra fiber and nuttiness) and sprinkle with some green onion and optional red pepper flakes for an added kick. I absolutely love how this dish looks and tastes, and my family goes crazy for the colorful presentation.
Pro Tips for Making Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe
- Don’t skip pounding the chicken: It ensures your chicken cooks evenly, stays juicy, and avoids that tough, dry bite I used to get all the time.
- Make the sauce last: Adding the cornstarch slurry only after mixing helps prevent lumps—one trick I discovered after a few botched batches!
- Control your heat: Medium heat keeps the chicken from burning while still allowing that golden brown crust, which is pure flavor gold.
- Balance your veggies: Don’t overcook broccoli and bell peppers; a quick sauté preserves their crunch and nutrients.
How to Serve Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe

Garnishes
I usually top my bowl with some finely sliced green onions and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little color and heat. Sometimes I add toasted sesame seeds for a lovely crunch and extra nutty flavor—these small touches really elevate the dish into something special.
Side Dishes
This bowl is hearty enough on its own, but I like to pair it with a light cucumber salad or steamed edamame when I’m serving guests. Both are refreshing sides that complement the savory-sweet flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at gatherings, try serving your Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowls in individual mason jars layered with rice, chicken, veggies, and sauce. It looks colorful and allows each guest to shake up their bowl for an even coat of deliciousness. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, usually separating the rice from the chicken and veggies if I can. This keeps everything tasting fresher, and you can easily reheat portions without the rice getting mushy.
Freezing
While I prefer fresh, you can freeze cooked chicken and veggies in the sauce for up to two months. Just cool it completely before freezing. When it’s thawed, give it a good stir while reheating, as the sauce may separate a bit but always comes back together.
Reheating
To reheat, I recommend warming on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This keeps the chicken juicy and veggies crisp-tender. The microwave works too but can sometimes dry things out if you’re not careful.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor since they have a bit more fat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
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Is this Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce keeps this recipe gluten-free. It’s a great option if you’re avoiding gluten but still craving that classic teriyaki flavor.
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Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
You can mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time, but I recommend adding the cornstarch slurry last when you’re ready to cook to ensure the best texture and thickness.
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What can I substitute for honey in the sauce?
Maple syrup or agave nectar are good alternatives for honey, especially if you want to keep it vegan or have an allergy. Adjust sweetness to taste as these can be a bit stronger or milder.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe has become one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. I love how it balances nutrition and flavor without complicated steps—it’s exactly the kind of dish I recommend to friends who want home-cooked meals without stress. Give it a try, and I bet it’ll become a favorite in your rotation too. Happy cooking!
Print
Healthy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Teriyaki Chicken Bowl is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish featuring tender pan-seared chicken breast cubes, sautéed fresh vegetables, and a homemade honey-sweetened teriyaki sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying gluten-free dinner served over rice and garnished with green onions and red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauté Base and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped green onion (white part only)
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thickness to ensure even cooking, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, coating them evenly.
- Cook the Chicken Aromatics and Chicken: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the toasted sesame oil. Sauté the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green onion whites briefly to release their aromas. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook on each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken and aromatics from the skillet, transferring them to a plate; set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Add a small amount of additional oil if necessary depending on your pan. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes or until they become fork-tender but still crisp.
- Prepare the Sauce Slurry: While the vegetables cook, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth and free of lumps. In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce or tamari, low sodium chicken broth, rice vinegar, and honey, whisking to mix well. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce mixture and whisk to combine.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken and aromatics to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the mixture. Allow everything to simmer for several minutes until the sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through. Cut a piece of chicken to ensure it is fully cooked inside.
- Serve: Serve the teriyaki chicken and vegetables over cooked rice. Garnish with remaining chopped green onions and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Enjoy your homemade teriyaki chicken bowl!
Notes
- This recipe is an easy and healthy gluten-free dinner option, ready in about 30 minutes.
- The teriyaki sauce is naturally sweetened with pure honey, avoiding refined sugars.
- Using low sodium soy sauce and chicken broth helps control salt levels.
- Pounding the chicken to even thickness ensures uniform cooking and tenderness.
- You can customize the vegetables based on preference; snap peas or carrots would also work well.
- Serve with steamed white, brown, or jasmine rice for the best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 251 kcal
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg


