If you’re looking for a vibrant and delicious meal that combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite, these Easy Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls are perfect for you. They’re simple to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and ideal for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a lover of poke bowls enthusiast or looking for a fun, new recipe—I think these easy chicken poke bowls will be a great addition to your week! ✨
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How to Make Easy Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls
In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step through making teriyaki chicken poke bowls, from marinating the chicken thighs to assembling your rice bowl with fresh toppings like cucumber, avocado, and mango. Plus, I’ll go over some fun variations, topping ideas, and tips to make your poke bowl recipe truly delicious!
Ingredients
- 6 Chicken Thighs marinated & grilled
- 2 Cups Rice
- 1 Cucumber sliced
- 2 Avocados halved
- 1 Mango cubed
- 2 Cups Edamame
- 2 Large Carrots thinly slices
Chicken Marinade
- 1/2 Cup Tamari or Soy Sauce
- 4 Limes juiced
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 2 Tablespoons Garlic Powder
Easy Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 Cup Tamari
- 1/4 Cup Honey
- 2 Tablespoons Sesame Oil
Extra Toppings
- Pickled Red Onions
- Green Onions
- Sesame Seeds
- Spicy Mayo
Step-By-Step Instructions
Making these easy teriyaki chicken poke bowls is easier than you think! Follow these steps for a flawless poke bowl recipe!
Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine tamari, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Add the chicken thighs and toss them to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, while you prep the other ingredients. The lime juice tenderizes the chicken, while the garlic and soy sauce infuse it with a savory punch.
Cook the Chicken
Grill the marinated chicken thighs over medium heat until fully cooked, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. This process takes about 6-8 minutes per side. If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips. Use a meat thermometer to be sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Chicken is generally safe to eat at this temperature.
Prepare the Rice
While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then cook it according to the package instructions. I like to use a rice cooker. To enhance the flavor, mix the cooked rice with a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of salt.
Prepare the Veggies
While the chicken is marinating or cooking, get the veggies ready for your poke bowls. Thinly slice the carrots into ribbons using a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler for a delish crunch. Slice the cucumber into even rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Cube the mango into bite-sized pieces, and halve the avocados, removing the pit and slicing them into thin strips. For the edamame, if using frozen, steam or boil them for a few minutes until tender, then drain and let them cool. Arrange everything in separate bowls for easy assembly later!
Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, combine tamari, honey, and sesame oil. Stir until well combined and adjust the flavor to your liking. Chop the chicken thighs into cubes and add to the sauce. Be sure each piece of chicken is tossed in the teriyaki sauce!
Assemble the Poke Bowls
Start by dividing the rice among your bowls. Arrange the sliced chicken thighs, cucumber, avocado, mango, edamame, and carrots on top. Drizzle the teriyaki sauce generously over the chicken and toppings.
Add Extra Toppings
Finish your poke bowls with pickled red onions, green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of spicy mayo. For an extra burst of freshness, squeeze a little lime juice over the bowl &n enjoy!
Why You’ll Love These Easy Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tender, marinated chicken, tangy teriyaki sauce, and fresh toppings creates an irresistible meal.
- Customizable: These bowls are endlessly versatile. Swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Assemble the components ahead of time for a quick, nutritious lunch or dinner.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free!
Why Chicken Poke Bowls Are Great for Meal Prep
Poke bowls are an excellent choice for meal prep because the ingredients stay fresh and flavorful when stored properly. Cook the chicken and rice ahead of time, slice the vegetables, and store everything in separate containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the bowls and enjoy a healthy, delicious meal in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions?
What is a poke bowl?
A poke bowl is a Hawaiian-inspired dish traditionally made with marinated raw fish, sushi rice, and a variety of fresh toppings like vegetables and seaweed. This recipe offers a twist by using grilled teriyaki chicken as the protein.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes! While teriyaki chicken is delicious, you can easily swap it for salmon, shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking time and marinade accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! I use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the teriyaki sauce and marinade gluten-free. Double-check that other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
What kind of rice is best for poke bowls?
Sushi rice is the traditional choice because of its sticky texture, but jasmine rice is what I prefer! Brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice work well as alternatives.
Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought teriyaki sauce is a convenient option. However, making your own allows you to control the flavor and ingredients.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
To keep your avocado fresh and green, drizzle it with a little lime juice after slicing. This slows down oxidation and keeps your bowl looking vibrant.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the rice, cook the chicken, and chop the veggies in advance. Store each component in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What are some additional toppings I can add?
Get creative! Try adding shredded cabbage, seaweed salad, pineapple chunks, crispy fried onions, or even tempura flakes for extra flavor and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the cooked chicken, rice, and toppings in separate containers in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Reheat the chicken and rice before assembling your poke bowl.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they may be less juicy than thighs. To prevent them from drying out, don’t overcook them and consider marinating them a bit longer.
What is the best way to cook the chicken for a poke bowl?
Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the teriyaki sauce. You can also pan-sear or bake the chicken if you don’t have a grill.
What’s the best way to serve poke bowls?
Serve poke bowls immediately after assembling for the freshest flavor and texture. They can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even slightly chilled, depending on your preference.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add a drizzle of spicy mayo, sprinkle some chili flakes, or mix a little sriracha into the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
For a lighter option, use cauliflower rice instead of sushi rice and reduce the amount of honey in the teriyaki sauce. You can also load up on more fresh veggies and greens.
Why is rice rinsed before cooking?
Rinsing rice removes excess starch, which helps the rice cook evenly and prevents it from becoming overly sticky or mushy.
Enjoy Your Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls!
These Easy Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls are like a flavor-packed masterpiece in a bowl! Perfect if you want to spice up weeknight dinners, serve to guests, or simply treat yourself to something fresh and absolutely delicious. With endless topping possibilities and a sauce that makes the chicken thighs unbelievable, this recipe is easy and packed nutrients. So, grab your chopsticks (or a fork—no judgment here) and dive into the deliciousness. Have the sweetest day & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy
If you loved this recipe—try my other Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe!
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls
Ingredients
- 6 Chicken Thighs marinated & grilled
- 2 Cups Rice
- 1 Cucumber sliced
- 2 Avocados halved
- 1 Mango cubed
- 2 Cups Edamame
- 2 Large Carrots thinly slices
Chicken Marinade
- 1/2 Cup Tamari or Soy Sauce
- 4 Limes juiced
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 2 Tablespoons Garlic Powder
Easy Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 Cup Tamari
- 1/4 Cup Honey
- 2 Tablespoons Sesame Oil
Extra Toppings
- Pickled Red Onions
- Green Onions
Instructions
- Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine tamari, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Add the chicken thighs and toss them to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, while you prep the other ingredients.
- Grill the marinated chicken thighs over medium heat until fully cooked, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. This process takes about 6-8 minutes per side. If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips. Use a meat thermometer to be sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Chicken is generally safe to eat at this temperature.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then cook it according to the package instructions.
- While the chicken is marinating or cooking, get the veggies ready for your poke bowls. Thinly slice the carrots into ribbons using a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler for a delish crunch. Slice the cucumber into even rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Cube the mango into bite-sized pieces, and halve the avocados, removing the pit and slicing them into thin strips. For the edamame, if using frozen, steam or boil them for a few minutes until tender, then drain and let them cool. Arrange everything in separate bowls for easy assembly later!
- In a small bowl, combine tamari, honey, and sesame oil. Stir until well combined and adjust the flavor to your liking. Chop the chicken thighs into cubes and add to the sauce. Be sure each piece of chicken is tossed in the teriyaki sauce!
- Assemble the bowls! Start by dividing the rice among your bowls. Arrange the sliced chicken thighs, cucumber, avocado, mango, edamame, and carrots on top. Drizzle the teriyaki sauce generously over the chicken and toppings.
- Finish your poke bowls with pickled red onions, green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of spicy mayo. For an extra burst of freshness, squeeze a little lime juice over the bowl & enjoy!