Ingredients:
3/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 bag (12 ounces) stir-fry vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, snow peas)
3 cups cooked brown or white rice
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray to ensure easy cleanup.
2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, 1/2 cup water, brown sugar, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Cover and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, uncover and let it cook for an additional minute.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Gradually stir this slurry into the boiling sauce. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking pan. Arrange the stir-fry vegetables around the chicken. Pour 1 cup of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Cover the pan tightly with foil.
4. Bake the Chicken and Veggies:
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the pan from the oven and carefully take off the foil. Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the pan.
5. Combine and Bake Again:
Add the cooked rice to the pan, mixing it with the chicken, vegetables, and most of the remaining sauce. Reserve a small amount of sauce for drizzling when serving. Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly combined. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle the reserved sauce over individual servings for extra flavor.
Enjoy this flavorful, hearty Teriyaki Chicken Casserole as a wholesome meal for any occasion!