Ultimate Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe with Rainbow Veggies & Wild Rice

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This Ultimate Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe with Rainbow Veggies & Wild Rice is a colorful, flavorful powerhouse of a meal that hits every note—sweet, savory, crunchy, and satisfying. Tender chicken breast bites are glazed in a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce, mingled with an array of crisp-tender vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. All of this goodness is served over nutty wild rice that soaks up the sauce beautifully, making every bite burst with texture and flavor.

What makes this dish a standout is its versatility and nutrition-packed profile. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is actually quite healthy—loaded with fiber, protein, vitamins, and whole grains. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick dinner idea after work, this stir-fry delivers on every front. It’s a go-to for busy families, fitness-focused eaters, or anyone simply craving a bold, balanced one-bowl dish.

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Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

• Packed with vibrant colors and nutrients thanks to a medley of vegetables
• Easy to make in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight cooking
• Perfect for meal prep – reheats well and keeps its texture
• Homemade teriyaki sauce brings a deep umami flavor with a slight sweetness
• Customizable – switch out proteins or veggies as needed
• Gluten-free friendly with tamari or coconut aminos
• One-pan meal = less cleanup and more convenience
• Satisfying and filling, but still light on calories

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

To create the perfect Ultimate Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry, having the right tools can make all the difference—not only for ease and speed, but for achieving that crave-worthy texture and flavor.

• Wok or Large Skillet: This is the heart of stir-frying. A wok allows for quick, even cooking at high heat, which is essential for locking in flavor while keeping veggies crisp and chicken juicy.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Prepping your vegetables into uniform, bite-sized pieces is key for even cooking. A good knife makes this task quicker and safer.
• Cutting Board: You’ll want one large enough to handle all your veggies and chicken prep.
• Mixing Bowl: Great for marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce to infuse flavor before cooking.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Essential for tossing ingredients while cooking without damaging your wok or skillet.
• Rice Cooker or Saucepan: To cook the wild rice perfectly—fluffy, nutty, and never mushy.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accuracy matters, especially when blending the sauce ingredients.

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Preparation Tips

• Cut evenly: Chop vegetables and chicken into similar sizes for consistent cooking. This prevents overcooked veggies or underdone meat.
• Preheat the wok/skillet: A hot pan helps sear the chicken quickly, locking in moisture.
• Don’t overcrowd: Stir-frying works best in batches. Cook the chicken separately from the veggies to keep everything crisp.
• Use high heat: Stir-frying is a fast process, so high heat is crucial. Keep ingredients moving to avoid burning.
• Let the rice rest: After cooking, let your wild rice sit covered for a few minutes. This helps fluff the grains and improves texture.
• Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and make your sauce before cooking to ensure a smooth, stress-free process.

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Ingredients for This Ultimate Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

For the Chicken & Veggies:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup sugar snap peas or snow peas
• 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/3 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil or neutral oil for cooking
• 2 cups cooked wild rice

For the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Optional Toppings:

• Sesame seeds
• Extra chopped green onion
• Red pepper flakes for heat

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Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice

Begin by cooking the wild rice according to package instructions. This usually takes about 35–45 minutes. Once done, fluff it with a fork and set aside, covered, to stay warm.

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Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. In another small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Set both aside—you’ll add the slurry later to thicken the sauce.

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Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it sear for 2–3 minutes without moving, then stir and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes total). Remove chicken and set aside.

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Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 4–5 minutes until just tender. Then add snap peas, green peas, and green onions. Cook for another 2 minutes. Veggies should be vibrant and slightly crisp.

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Step 5: Combine Chicken, Sauce & Thicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the teriyaki sauce and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.

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Step 6: Serve Over Wild Rice

Spoon the stir-fry mixture generously over bowls of warm wild rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, extra green onions, or chili flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Notes

• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use veggie broth-based sauce alternatives.
• Add more heat: Toss in a splash of sriracha or a few pinches of red pepper flakes to spice things up.
• Balance flavors: If the sauce tastes too salty or strong, dilute with a bit of water or pineapple juice for added sweetness and tang.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan: This can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying. Always cook in batches if needed to maintain that crisp texture.
• Undercooked rice: Wild rice takes longer than white rice. Don’t rush it or you’ll end up with chewy or underdone grains.
• Skipping the cornstarch slurry: Without it, your teriyaki sauce will be too runny and won’t cling to the chicken and veggies.
• Using low heat: Stir-frying demands high heat. Using medium or low heat can result in soggy veggies and pale chicken.
• Not prepping everything beforehand: Stir-fry moves fast! Have all your ingredients ready and within reach before you start cooking.
• Uneven chopping: Large chunks take longer to cook and can stay raw inside, while small ones might burn—keep everything bite-sized and uniform.

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What to Serve With Ultimate Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry?

Here Are 8 Delicious Recommendations:

1. Steamed Dumplings – A great Asian-inspired side that pairs beautifully with the teriyaki flavors.
2. Miso Soup – Light and comforting, it balances the richness of the stir-fry.
3. Asian Slaw – Adds crunch and a tangy note that contrasts the sweet-savory sauce.
4. Cucumber Sesame Salad – Refreshing, cooling, and super easy to make.
5. Spring Rolls – Fresh or fried, these add a fun appetizer element to your meal.
6. Kimchi – For a spicy, fermented kick that cuts through the sweetness of the sauce.
7. Edamame with Sea Salt – A healthy snack-like side you can enjoy while the rice finishes cooking.
8. Pineapple Chunks or Grilled Pineapple – The natural sweetness complements the teriyaki glaze perfectly.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers of this Ultimate Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry store exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prep:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep rice and stir-fry separate if you want to maintain texture.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions using airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too—just stir halfway through to heat evenly.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Serves 4)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 10g
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 720mg

Note: Values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes! Chicken thighs offer a juicier and richer flavor. Just trim the excess fat and cook until fully done.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. It reheats very well, especially if stored properly in separate containers. Just keep the rice and stir-fry separate to maintain texture.

3. Is it possible to make the teriyaki sauce sugar-free?

Yes. You can substitute honey/maple syrup with monk fruit sweetener or a sugar-free syrup. Just adjust the amount to your taste.

4. What veggies can I substitute?

Zucchini, mushrooms, baby corn, kale, or cabbage work well. Use what’s fresh and in season.

5. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, just add it toward the end to heat through. Avoid overcooking, or it might dry out.

6. Is wild rice necessary?

No, but it adds texture and nutrition. You can use jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

7. How do I keep vegetables from getting soggy?

Use high heat, don’t overcrowd the pan, and cook in quick batches to retain their crispness.

8. Is this stir-fry gluten-free?

It can be! Just swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free labeled.

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Conclusion

The Ultimate Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry with Rainbow Veggies & Wild Rice isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavor, color, and nutrition in one sizzling pan. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping healthy lunches, this dish delivers bold taste and nourishing satisfaction without a complicated process. With its customizable ingredients and foolproof sauce, it’s bound to become a favorite in your easy dinner rotation. So fire up that wok—you’ve got a delicious and wholesome stir-fry to conquer!

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