Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for something fresh, satisfying, and just a little out of the ordinary, let me introduce you to Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad. This dish combines juicy teriyaki-glazed chicken, golden crispy rice, and a rainbow of crunchy veggies, all brought together with a zippy homemade dressing. It’s a craveable mashup of flavors and textures that satisfies takeout cravings but is shockingly simple to whip up at home. Whether you’re seeking weeknight dinner inspiration or a dish guaranteed to impress at your next gathering, this salad is bound to become a new favorite!

Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad lies in its cleverly chosen, no-fuss ingredients. Each component not only boosts the taste and texture, but also adds a pop of color and freshness that make every bite special.

  • Cooked jasmine or sushi rice: Use cold, leftover rice for the crispiest base—a perfect way to revive yesterday’s grains.
  • Sesame oil: Just a splash gives rich, toasty undertones to your rice and dressing.
  • Vegetable oil: Ensures the rice gets truly golden and crisp.
  • Cooked chicken breast or thighs: Go for what you have on hand; tender rotisserie or baked chicken both shine when tossed in teriyaki sauce.
  • Bottled or homemade teriyaki sauce: The sweet-salty glaze makes the chicken irresistible—choose your favorite or whip up your own.
  • Mixed salad greens: Offer a crisp and refreshing canvas for all those vibrant toppings.
  • Shredded carrots: Lend a touch of sweetness and brilliant color.
  • Thinly sliced cucumber: Adds cooling crunch that’s especially welcome with the bold flavors.
  • Edamame (steamed and shelled): Brings creamy texture and protein, making the salad even more satisfying.
  • Sliced green onions: For a gentle bite and a pop of green on top.
  • Sesame seeds: Sprinkle these on for a nutty finish and a little extra crunch.
  • Avocado (optional): A few slices add richness and that dreamlike creamy element—highly recommended!
  • Teriyaki Dressing ingredients: Teriyaki sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, plus a pinch of salt and pepper, making a dressing that ties everything together perfectly.

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad

Step 1: Crisp Up the Rice

Grab your favorite nonstick skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Swirl in the sesame and vegetable oils, then spread the cold, cooked rice evenly across the pan. Press down gently with a spatula and let the rice sizzle undisturbed for 6 to 8 minutes. You’re aiming for golden, crackly bottoms that hold together in crispy shards. Once done, set aside to cool for a few minutes—the wait is worth it!

Step 2: Coat the Chicken in Teriyaki Sauce

Chop your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, then toss them in a generous helping of teriyaki sauce. The chicken should be glossy and thoroughly coated in the delicious, sweet-savory glaze, taking on maximum flavor to crown your salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing pulls double duty—drizzling beautifully over the salad while bringing all those punchy flavors together.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Break your crispy rice into rustic, big chunks and divide them among your bowls. Layer on the mixed greens, carrots, cucumber, edamame, green onions, and avocado slices if you’re going all in. Pile the glossy teriyaki chicken on top, then finish everything with a drizzle of that homemade dressing and a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds.

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad

Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A flourish of sesame seeds, a scatter of sliced green onions, or even a few flecks of nori instantly elevates your Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad. For an extra pop, try adding pickled ginger or a quick squeeze of lime; both make the flavors sing with brightness and zest.

Side Dishes

Though this salad is a hearty main on its own, you can round out your meal with light sides. Miso soup, crunchy wonton chips, or even a simple fruit salad pair beautifully, letting the bold salad flavors shine without competing.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond standard bowls! Build mini versions in small glasses for a party-ready appetizer, or let everyone DIY at the table with salad fixings and crispy rice “slabs” to pile high. You could even try wrapping the ingredients in lettuce leaves for a hand-held twist—the Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad is as fun to serve as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep salad components and crispy rice separate for best results. Store everything in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply reassemble when ready to enjoy. This way, the rice stays as crisp as possible!

Freezing

While most elements of Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad taste best when fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and crispy rice separately. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and assemble the salad with fresh greens and veggies for a just-made feel.

Reheating

To revive your crispy rice, pop it back in a hot, dry skillet for a few minutes until it regains its crunch; avoid microwaving, as this will make it chewy. Warm the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove, then drizzle over some extra teriyaki sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine or sushi rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be used for this recipe, just be sure to use it cold and pressed firmly into the pan for the crispiest texture. Its nuttiness adds another layer to the Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad.

Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?

Yes—swap the chicken for tofu or portobello mushrooms. Coat them in teriyaki sauce just like the chicken for a plant-based take on Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad that’s just as delicious and filling.

Do I need a nonstick skillet for the crispy rice?

While nonstick gives the easiest, stress-free release, you can use a well-seasoned cast iron or stainless-steel skillet if you’re comfortable. Just make sure to oil it generously and leave the rice undisturbed until a golden crust forms.

What can I use instead of edamame?

Snap peas, steamed green beans, or even shelled chickpeas offer a similar bite if you can’t find edamame. The Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad is super flexible, so feel free to swap in what you love.

How spicy is this salad?

The core recipe isn’t spicy at all, but you can easily turn up the heat by adding sriracha to the dressing or a few sliced chiles on top. It’s your Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad—go as mild or wild as your taste buds desire!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to shake up your weeknight dinner rotation or dazzle friends with something new, don’t miss out on the Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad. It’s fresh, vibrant, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—give it a try and see just how crave-worthy crispy rice can be!

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Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad Recipe

Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad Recipe


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4.8 from 20 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This Teriyaki Chicken Crispy Rice Salad is a delightful Asian-inspired dish that combines crispy rice, tender teriyaki chicken, and a colorful array of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal!


Ingredients

Scale

Rice:

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine or sushi rice
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Chicken:

  • 1 lb cooked chicken breast or thighs, chopped
  • ½ cup bottled or homemade teriyaki sauce

Salad:

  • 2 cups mixed salad greens
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • ½ cup thinly sliced cucumber
  • ¼ cup edamame (steamed and shelled)
  • ¼ cup sliced green onions
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 avocado, sliced (optional)

Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Crispy Rice: In a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, combine sesame oil and vegetable oil. Add the cooked rice in an even layer and press down gently. Let cook undisturbed for 6–8 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Teriyaki Chicken: In a bowl, toss the cooked chicken with teriyaki sauce until coated.
  3. Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
  4. Assembly: Break the crispy rice into chunks and layer it into bowls. Top with salad greens, carrots, cucumber, edamame, green onions, and avocado if using. Spoon teriyaki chicken on top, drizzle with the dressing, and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • Great use for leftover rice and rotisserie chicken.
  • Add pickled ginger or a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist.
  • For extra crunch, toss in wonton strips or crushed nori sheets.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 710mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

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