Name: Instant Pot Chicken Teriyaki Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; Salt (to taste); freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 2 cups teriyaki sauce (divided); 1 1/2 cups uncooked Jasmine rice (washed, rinsed and drained thoroughly); 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water); 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil (or olive oil); 2 bell peppers (chopped); 1 head fresh broccoli (chopped into florets); Sesame seeds (for garnish); Green onion (chopped, for garnish); Sriracha hot sauce ((or crushed red pepper flakes), optional)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Teriyaki. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and fluffy rice—an all-in-one meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. Plus, with the Instant Pot, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time, making it a favorite in my kitchen arsenal.

Why It’s My Go-To

I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I want something quick yet comforting. The beauty of Instant Pot Chicken Teriyaki Bowls lies not only in their flavor but also in their versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Whether you’re craving something spicy, tangy, or sweet, this recipe can adapt to suit your mood. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those veggies!

Shopping List

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
2 cups teriyaki sauce, divided
1 1/2 cups uncooked Jasmine rice, washed, rinsed and drained thoroughly (or other long-grain rice)
1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil, or olive oil
2 bell peppers, chopped
1 head fresh broccoli, chopped into florets
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Green onion, chopped, for garnish
Sriracha hot sauce (or crushed red pepper flakes), optional

Toolbox for This Recipe

Instant Pot: This is the star of the show, making the cooking process quick and efficient.
Cutting board: For chopping your veggies.
Knife: A sharp knife makes prep work a breeze.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy in your ingredients.
Spatula or wooden spoon: For mixing everything together.

Build Instant Pot Chicken Teriyaki Bowls Step by Step

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the bell peppers and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the Jasmine rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which helps achieve fluffy rice.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ground ginger. This will infuse the chicken with flavor while it cooks.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the toasted sesame oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is crucial for developing flavor.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Broth

Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. Add the rinsed rice and low-sodium chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.

Step 5: Layer the Ingredients

Place the sautéed chicken on top of the rice mixture. Pour 1 cup of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, then add the chopped bell peppers and broccoli on top. This layering helps the vegetables steam perfectly while the chicken cooks.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Fluff and Serve

Carefully remove the lid and shred the chicken with two forks right in the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the rice to absorb the teriyaki sauce. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of Sriracha if you like a bit of heat.

Smart Substitutions

For a lower-carb option, swap the Jasmine rice for cauliflower rice.
Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
If you prefer, any other vegetables such as snap peas, carrots, or zucchini can be used in place of bell peppers and broccoli.
Switch up the teriyaki sauce with a homemade version for a fresh spin.

Chef’s Rationale

The Instant Pot Chicken Teriyaki Bowls are designed to be a one-pot meal, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. Cooking everything together ensures that the rice absorbs all the savory notes from the chicken and sauce, creating a harmonious dish. The balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables makes it not only delicious but also nutritious.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

You can pre-prep this dish by marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce a few hours before cooking, enhancing the flavors even more. Additionally, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making them perfect for meal prep. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to revive the moisture.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes! If using frozen chicken breasts, increase the cooking time to 15 minutes, and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Is there a gluten-free version of teriyaki sauce?

Absolutely! Look for gluten-free teriyaki sauce options made with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

For a complete meal, serve your Instant Pot Chicken Teriyaki Bowls with a simple side salad or some steamed edamame for extra protein.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just be sure not to exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, but generally, the cooking duration remains the same.

Because You Liked This

Bring It to the Table

When you serve up these Instant Pot Chicken Teriyaki Bowls, expect smiles and satisfied appetites. The vibrant colors from the fresh vegetables combined with the savory aroma of teriyaki sauce make this dish not only appealing to the eye but also a delight to the palate. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying the moment and less time in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a staple in your home!