Teriyaki Chicken and Cabbage Bowls

If you’re looking for a vibrant and delicious meal that bursts with flavor and nutrition, then look no further! Teriyaki Chicken and Cabbage Bowls combine tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a sweet-savory teriyaki sauce that’s both satisfying and wholesome. With a handful of fresh ingredients, this dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful meal at home.

Why Teriyaki Chicken and Cabbage Bowls is Worth Your Time

Teriyaki Chicken and Cabbage Bowls are a true winner on many fronts. Not only is it packed with nutrients from the colorful veggies, but the teriyaki sauce adds a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the dish to another level. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy cabbage, and aromatic garlic and ginger creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Plus, this dish is versatile; you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get started!

Gather These Ingredients

To prepare your Teriyaki Chicken and Cabbage Bowls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 Tbsp avocado oil
• 1 medium-sized yellow onion, chopped
• 6 to 8 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced*
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into matchsticks
• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces**
• 5 stalks green onion, chopped
• 1 pinch sea salt to taste
• 5 Tbs liquid aminos or soy sauce***
• 1 Tbsp avocado oil
• 2 Tbs rice vinegar
• 2 Tbs pure maple syrup or honey
• 4 large cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 1 Tbsp tapioca flour or cornstarch****

Recommended Tools

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the following tools:

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board: Essential for chopping and prepping ingredients.
• Sharp knife: For easy and efficient cutting.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and tossing ingredients.

Teriyaki Chicken and Cabbage Bowls: How It’s Done

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the yellow onion, slicing the green cabbage, grating the carrot, and cutting the red bell pepper into matchsticks. Also, chop the green onion and set it aside for garnish.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 5 tablespoons of liquid aminos (or soy sauce), 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup (or honey), minced garlic, grated ginger, and 1 tablespoon of tapioca flour (or cornstarch). This will be your sticky, sweet teriyaki sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken breasts and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped onion, sliced cabbage, grated carrot, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly yet retain their crunch.

Step 5: Add the Teriyaki Sauce

Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the sauce evenly coats all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become sticky.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve your Teriyaki Chicken and Cabbage Bowls hot, either on their own or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Substitutions by Category

If you find yourself missing an ingredient or want to make adjustments, consider these substitutions:

• Protein: Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetables: Use bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas in place of cabbage or bell pepper.
• Sweeteners: Coconut sugar or agave nectar can be used instead of maple syrup or honey.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of liquid aminos.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Cooking can sometimes come with its hiccups, but here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken to prevent it from drying out. Aim for a golden brown color and ensure it’s cooked through.
• Watery sauce: Make sure to let the sauce simmer and thicken properly. The tapioca flour or cornstarch is crucial for achieving that sticky consistency.
• Vegetable mush: Avoid overcooking the vegetables. You want them to be tender yet still crunchy for the best texture.
• Flavor imbalance: Taste your teriyaki sauce before adding it to ensure the sweet and salty flavors are balanced to your liking.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Preparing your meal ahead of time can save you precious minutes during busy evenings. Here are a few tips to make ahead:

• Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
• Chop all your vegetables in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Cook the chicken and veggies earlier in the day and reheat them when you’re ready to eat. Just make sure to add a splash of water to the skillet to keep everything moist.

Ask the Chef

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and to avoid any food safety issues.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to the teriyaki sauce. You can also toss in some sliced jalapeños for a fresh kick.

What can I serve with Teriyaki Chicken and Cabbage Bowls?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also serve it with a light salad for extra freshness.

Can I store leftovers?

Definitely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Serve with These

Elevate your meal by serving it with some delicious sides:

• Steamed Rice
• Quinoa
• Edamame
• Spicy Asian Salad

Before You Go

This Teriyaki Chicken and Cabbage Bowls recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep, family dinners, or impressing friends at your next gathering. Remember, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and savor every bite of this delicious creation!