Looking for a delicious and easy meal prep dinner recipe? This Teriyaki Chicken with Steamed Broccoli is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful and balanced meal you can prepare ahead of time. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how satisfying it tastes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice. Coconut aminos work as a gluten-free alternative.
- Brown Sugar: Maple syrup or honey can be used as a substitute for sweetness.
- Fresh Ginger: Ground ginger can be used, but fresh offers more flavor.
- Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets are both fine.
Ingredients:
For the Teriyaki Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for cooking
For the Steamed Broccoli:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
Optional Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 420 calories
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, mixing bowls, steaming basket or large pot with lid.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside half of this mixture to use as a finishing sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the chicken is cooked through.
3. Simmer the Chicken in Sauce
Pour the remaining teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the simmering chicken and sauce, stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Steam the Broccoli
While the chicken cooks, steam your broccoli florets. Place them in a steaming basket over an inch of boiling water, cover, and steam for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Alternatively, microwave with a splash of water for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble Your Meal Prep
Divide the teriyaki chicken and steamed broccoli evenly into four meal prep containers. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if you like. You’ve just created a fantastic meal prep dinner recipe!
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your teriyaki sauce for some heat.
- Veggies Galore: Include other quick-cooking vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
- Pineapple Teriyaki: Stir in some canned pineapple chunks (drained) with the sauce for a touch of sweetness and tang.
Storage Instructions:
Store your prepared Teriyaki Chicken with Steamed Broccoli in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this with frozen chicken?
Yes, you can. Thaw frozen chicken completely before cutting and cooking for best results.
What can I serve with this meal prep dinner recipe?
Serve it with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce isn’t thick enough, you can add another small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp water) and simmer for another minute.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the teriyaki sauce ingredients up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.