I’ve worked in the food industry for 15 years as a chef, recipe developer, writer, and editor. Prior to joining the Kitchn team I was an associate editor at America’s Test Kitchen, a contributor to Serious Eats, and worked on cookbooks for Ten Speed Press, Rebel Girls, and Clarkson Potter!
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If you’re looking for a cozy, no-fuss dinner that checks all the right boxes, this chicken broccoli rice casserole is it. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and just enough broccoli to make everyone feel good about what’s on their plate.
This is one of those dependable casseroles you can turn to on busy weeknights for simple ingredients, easy prep, and comforting flavor that the whole family actually wants to eat.
Casseroles are what my entire childhood were made of except for when my mom made tuna casserole. I think she only did it once or twice and I’m pretty sure my soul died in the process. OK not to be dramatic but truly I was that picky of a kid that I hated it with all of my heart and soul.
Nowadays, I see the comfort and the ease of throwing everything into a casserole and this chicken, broccoli and rice casserole is exactly what your family is craving for dinner this week.
Perfect for Busy Nights: Comfort food without extra work
Ingredients You’ll Need
This chicken rice casserole with broccoli comes together with simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand. Nothing fancy, just classic comfort food staples that work really well together.
Olive Oil: Helps sauté and lightly coat the pan while adding subtle flavor.
White Long Grain Rice: Cooks up fluffy and absorbs all the creamy, savory flavors.
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and depth while cooking the rice.
Italian Seasoning: Brings a simple blend of herbs that ties everything together.
Garlic Powder: Adds savory garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps everything from tasting flat.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Adds freshness, color, and a little bite to balance the creaminess.
Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that bakes up tender in the casserole.
Cream of Chicken Soup: The creamy base that makes this casserole cozy and comforting.
Milk: Thins the sauce just enough to keep it creamy and not heavy.
Sour Cream: Adds richness and a slight tang that boosts flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the casserole for cheesy goodness in every bite.
Cracker Topping
Unsalted Butter: Helps the topping turn golden and rich.
Ritz Crackers: Buttery and crisp, they make the perfect crunchy topping.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes! In fact, I recommend it to make this easy casserole recipe even easier!
Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli
I prefer fresh broccoli florets in this recipe but you can use frozen if you need to. The texture will just be mushier.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Don’t let the cozy, from-scratch flavor fool you! This casserole is easy to make and comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to get it in the oven and on the table fast.
Prep: Preheat the oven to 350℉ and grease a 9×13″ pan with nonstick spray.
Sauté: Add some olive oil to a large pot over medium heat and then add the rice. Let it cook for 1 minute stirring constantly.
Cook the Rice: Add the broth and seasonings and bring it to a boil then reduce the heat and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for 6 minutes.
Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli and stir it in. Place the lid back on the pot and cook for another 9 minutes then remove from the heat.
Finish the Casserole: Add the remaining ingredients for the casserole including half the cheese and stir to combine.
Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Prepare the Topping: Combine the melted butter and crushed crackers. Then sprinkle it over the casserole and baked uncovered for another 10 minutes.
What to Serve with Chicken Broccoli Casserole
I like to keep it really light and fresh with side dishes when we eat this casserole. A simple green salad is always a great option or our tasty tomato cucumber salad. A side of roasted carrots or sauteed snap peas is also a great idea. And fresh fruit salad is always a winner at our house!
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead?
This easy chicken broccoli rice casserole is perfect for prepping in advance. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, let it sit on the counter for about 20–30 minutes, then bake as directed. It’s a lifesaver on busy days when dinner needs to happen with minimal effort.
Freezer Friendly
Yes, you can freeze this one! Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. If baking from frozen, cover with foil and add extra bake time, removing the foil near the end so the top can get nice and bubbly.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 5 days.
Baked leftovers reheat beautifully. Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven, covered, until heated through. The flavors only get better, making this one of those meals you’ll actually look forward to eating again.
This chicken broccoli rice casserole is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. It reheats so well, makes great leftovers, and can even be prepped ahead when life gets hectic. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or enjoying it the next day, it’s warm, filling, comforting and exactly what a good casserole should be.
More Easy Casserole Recipes:
Watch This Video to See How It’s Made…
Prevent your screen from going dark
Preheat the oven to 350℉ and grease a 9×13″ pan with nonstick spray.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium. Add the rice and cook, stirring for 1 minute.
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil, 1 ¼ Cups White Long Grain Rice
Add the chicken broth and seasonings and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for 6 minutes.
2 ½ Cup Chicken Broth, 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning, 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder, 1 teaspoon Salt
Add the broccoli and stir once, replace the cover, cooking for another 9 minutes, making sure all liquid is gone. Keep the pot covered and remove from heat.
3 Cups Fresh Broccoli Florets
Prepare remaining ingredients. Add the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir to combine.
2 Cups Chicken Breasts, 1 Can Cream of Chicken Soup, ½ Cup Milk, ½ Cup Sour Cream, 2 Cups Cheddar Cheese
Transfer to a 9 x 13-inch pan and top with remaining cheese.
2 Cups Cheddar Cheese
Cover and bake for 15 minutes.
Melt the butter and stir in the crackers.
2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter, 1 Cup Ritz Crackers
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Garlic Butter Skillet Pork Bites & Green Beans is the kind of quick, flavorful dinner that makes you feel like a weeknight hero. Made with juicy, pan-seared pork bites and vibrant green beans tossed in a lemon garlic butter sauce, this one-skillet recipe is easy to throw together and is ready in under 30 minutes!
From Canned Veggies to Skillet Magic
Green beans were a staple in my house growing up, but with five kids and a mom from a farm in Idaho who was taught to save and preserve everything, our green beans were 99% canned by mom. They were tender and so flavorful, but that meant fresh green beans took me a little time to warm up to with all of that crunchy texture!
The Trick That Changed Everything
As an adult, I’ve discovered that the secret to really good green beans is in the prep work. Blanching them in hot water until they’re vibrant green, tossing them straight into an ice bath to stop the cooking, and finally sautéing in a cast iron skillet for depth of flavor has been life-altering.
Can We All Agree Pork Is Better with Crispy Edges?
We love searing pork bites until the edges are crispy and caramelized. It takes the flavor up a notch – but that’s not even the best part. This healthy 30 minute meal finishes with a lemon garlic butter sauce that has us eating straight from the pan. And those green beans? They’ve never been this exciting.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Skillet Pork Bites & Green Beans
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together for a flavorful, low-carb dinner that cooks in one cast iron skillet.
Pork Chops: Boneless and cut into 1-inch pieces. Loin or bone-in chops work too, just adjust cook time.
BBQ Rub: My Homemade BBQ Rub is perfect here. Make a batch to have quick seasoning without extra prep.
Olive Oil: For searing the pork. Use avocado oil if you prefer.
Butter: Builds the base of the garlic lemon sauce.
Garlic: Fresh cloves that are minced adds a sharp, rich flavor.
Lemon (Zest + Juice): Brightens and balances the sauce.
Chicken Broth: Deglazes the skillet and adds moisture.
Green Beans: Blanched and sautéed for tender-crisp texture.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional heat.
Fresh Parsley: For a fresh finish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Skillet Pork Bites & Green Beans
Simple ingredients, simple steps, big flavor – just how weeknight dinners should be.
Season the Pork: Coat chopped boneless pork chops with BBQ rub.
Sear the Pork: Heat oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Brown pork in batches, 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside.
Melt the Butter: Lower heat to medium and melt butter in the pan.
Add Garlic: Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Deglaze: Pour in lemon juice, zest, and chicken broth, scraping up bits from the bottom.
Add Green Beans: Toss in blanched green beans and cook 3-4 minutes, stirring often.
Finish the Dish: Return pork to the pan and stir everything to coat in sauce.
Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and red pepper flakes, if using.
TIP: Pork is done when it hits 145°F inside, checked with a meat thermometer.
Storing and Freezing Garlic Butter Skillet Pork Bites & Green Beans
Got leftovers? You’re set for an easy lunch.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze cooked pork and green beans for up to 2 months. We use our FoodSaver to keep things fresh.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep the pork tender.
FAQs About Garlicky One‑Pan Pork & Green Beans
Can I skip blanching the green beans?
You could, but blanching locks in color and crunch. If you’re pressed for time, you can skip the ice bath and go straight to sautéing – just expect a slightly softer texture.
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes! Bone‑in chops are flavorful and help retain moisture. If you’re using them, just add a few minutes to the sear time and monitor internal temp carefully.
Is lemon juice OK for kids or picky eaters?
Absolutely. A little lemon brightens the sauce without making it sour. If citrus is a no-go, you can use a small splash of chicken broth alone and still get great flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine.
Add a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the butter sauce for extra tang.
Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes with the green beans.
For a creamy twist, finish with a splash of heavy cream or a little grated Parmesan.
No fresh parsley? Use chives, thyme, or skip it altogether.
Ready in just 30 minutes or less this easy, deliciously low carb and healthy pork recipe is the best new addition to our quick and easy recipe index!
More Pork Recipes to Try:
Watch How this Skillet Pork Bites Recipe is Made…
Prevent your screen from going dark
In a pie plate, sprinkle pork with seasoning and toss to coat well.
1 ½ lbs Pork Chops, 1 ½ Tablespoons BBQ Rub
Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
Brown the pork bites in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until edges are crispy and browned, drizzling more oil as needed. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and cook until melted.
¼ Cup Butter
Add the garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4 Cloves Garlic
Scrape up any browned bits from the pan as you pour in the lemon juice and zest and broth.
½ Lemon, ¼ Cup Chicken Broth
Carefully add the green beans into the pan and toss in the lemon butter sauce to coat well. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning often.
1 lb Green Beans
Push cooked green beans on the side and return the pork into the pan. Toss the pork bites through the sauce to evenly coat.
Add a sprinkle fresh parsley and red chili pepper flakes. Serve immediately!
I’m a recipe developer, food stylist, and content producer. I’ve spent the past seven years at meal kit companies like Marley Spoon and Dinnerly, teaching at food nonprofits, and doing a little farming. Originally from Houston, I live with my partner, dog, cat, and rabbit. We all love local, seasonal produce.
This post may contain references to products from one or more of our advertisers. Oh Sweet Basil may receive compensation when you click on links to such products.
This chicken bacon ranch casserole is the kind of dinner you make when you want something quick and easy that is cozy, filling, and guaranteed to be a hit. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, pasta, and just the right amount of ranch flavor.
It’s easy enough for a weeknight, comforting enough for a Sunday dinner, and flexible enough to make ahead which is exactly what we want from a good casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This chicken bacon ranch pasta bake is a hearty dinner recipe everyone will love! Here is everything you’ll need:
Butter: Forms the base of the sauce and adds richness while helping create a smooth, creamy texture.
Garlic: Adds savory depth and aromatic flavor that enhances the cream sauce without overpowering it.
Flour: Thickens the sauce, creating a creamy, cohesive base that coats the pasta and chicken evenly.
Heavy Cream: Provides richness and body, giving the casserole its signature creamy, comforting texture.
Chipotle Lime Ranch: Adds tangy ranch flavor with a subtle smoky kick, balancing the richness of the cheese and cream.
Salt and Pepper: Enhance and balance all the flavors, ensuring the dish doesn’t taste flat.
Chicken: Adds hearty protein and makes the casserole filling and satisfying.
Small Shells Pasta: Holds onto the creamy sauce thanks to its shape, delivering flavor in every bite.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts smoothly and creates that stretchy, gooey texture everyone loves.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharp, bold flavor that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
Bacon: Brings smoky, salty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy casserole.
Parsley: Adds a fresh pop of color and a light herbal finish to balance the richness.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
This is a layered casserole with four main components: the ranch cream sauce, the shredded cheese, the chicken, and the pasta. Here’s how to make this easy chicken casserole:
Make the Sauce:Prepare the ranch cream sauce (detailed instructions on how to make a cream sauce in the section below).
Cook the Pasta:Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
Assemble the Casserole: Butter a 9×13-inch casserole dish and assemble the chicken ranch casserole.
Bake:Bake the ranch chicken casserole until the cheese is melted and bubbling around the edges.
We get a lot of readers writing in saying that they feel overwhelmed with the idea of making a cream sauce. But don’t worry, we’ll help you out! Cream sauce is one of the easiest things you can learn to make. Once you know the basics, you can create anything you want.
Start off with a little butter (olive oil is ok if you absolutely must, but butter is best), then add in your flavorings. Garlic is a must for this chicken ranch casserole, and you can go as light or as heavy as you want. Onions are another great addition and if you’re keeping it a white sauce, throw in a dash or two of nutmeg. Sounds crazy, but it really enriches the sauce.
Alright, whisk everything together and add in an equal amount of flour. So, if you used 2 tablespoons of butter go ahead and start with 1 ½-2 tablespoons of flour and whisk for 30-60 seconds. This will cook out the flour taste.
Immediately add your liquid while continuously whisking. This is a great chance to bust out your ranchdressing — we used chili lime flavor and it is awesome, but there’s also classic and cucumber basil if you want to try something less spicy.
My Secret for Quick Chicken Dinners
This is such a quick and easy dinner, and I’ll tell you a secret: I didn’t even cook the chicken. I used the chicken I had leftover in my freezer.
I cook up my own Tender Slow Cooker Whole Chicken, let everything cool, shred it and then use a Food Saverso I can store it in the freezer. It’s the only way to keep it super fresh so I can pull out cooked meat at any time.
Just watch for a sale on whole chickens at the grocery store and grab a few. It’s seriously such a time saver!
Chicken Casserole FAQs
What Kind of Ranch Works Best?
Our absolute favorite ranch is the Hidden Valley Simply Ranch Chili Lime flavor. We love the extra flavor the ranch adds, but any type of ranch works just fine.
Can You Use Milk in a Cream Sauce?
In place of the heavy cream, you can use any milk, cream, or half and half (or a combination of them). Heavy cream will make a thicker, more flavorful sauce, but we use milk all the time to be a little healthier. Whisk everything while you season with salt and pepper and the mixture should start to come to a boil. Turn it down as we don’t want to scorch it and let it simmer until it’s to a desired thickness.
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Of course! Any short, sturdy pasta will work. I don’t recommend using a long, thin pasta for this chicken ranch casserole since it won’t hold up to the thick cream sauce or the shredded chicken. But something like penne or farfalle pasta will work instead of pasta shells.
Is There a Ranch Substitute I Can Use?
If you can’t find ranch dressing where you live or you’ve run out, you can make your own homemade ranch dressing instead. But besides making your own dressing, I’m not aware of a ranch substitute you can use in this cheesy chicken casserole. The ranch is a key ingredient!
Variations and Add-Ins
This is a fairly flexible recipe. You can use any shredded cheese you have on hand, substitute shredded turkey for the chicken, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and so forth. This is one of those awesome clean out the fridge recipes!
Tips for Making Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
When cooking the pasta shells, make sure to salt the water before adding the dry pasta to it. You want the pasta itself to have some flavor, otherwise this chicken ranch casserole will taste a bit flat.
You also need to make sure to drain the pasta very well before adding it to the casserole. If there’s too much water left on the pasta, it’ll thin out the ranch cream sauce, which isn’t what you want.
Just before serving this chicken pasta casserole, we like to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of flavor. You can use other herbs as well (pretty much any fresh herb will complement the ranch flavor).
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
This is a great make ahead recipe! Make and assemble everything as instructed, then cover with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It will keep for up to 2 days. Then bake it as written in the instruction.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for 4-5 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or multiple servings in the oven preheated to 300 degrees F for 15-20 minutes.
This cheesy chicken bacon ranch casserole is rich, comforting, and always disappears fast. Whether you’re feeding a family, bringing dinner to a friend, or stocking the freezer, this is one of those dependable recipes you’ll come back to again and again.
More Cozy Casserole Recipes to Try:
Watch How This Recipe is Made…
Prevent your screen from going dark
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Heat a small pot over medium heat. Add the butter and whisk in the garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant and whisk in the flour. Continue whisking the mixture for 30-60 seconds to cook out the flour.
While continuing to whisk, pour in the heavy cream.
1 Cup Heavy Cream
Add the ranch and season with salt, about 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.
¼ Cup Chipotle Lime Ranch, Salt and Pepper
Cook until the sauce begins to simmer and thicken, about 2-5 minutes. If it’s not simmering and thickening just turn up the heat a little until it does. Do not boil or scorch.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions.
8 Ounces Small Shells Pasta
Remove sauce from the heat.
Drain the pasta.
Mix the two cheeses together.
1 Cup Mozzarella, 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese
In a casserole dish or 9×13″ pan, rub the butter and clove of garlic everywhere. Add half the pasta and top with half of the chicken. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
Salt and Pepper, 2 Cups Chicken, 1 Tablespoon Butter, 1 Clove Garlic
Pour half of the sauce over the top and sprinkle with half of the cheeses.
Repeat with the last half of the ingredients and top with bacon at the end.
3 Sliced Bacon
Bake for 20 minutes or until hot and the cheeses are melted.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with parsley and serve!
Parsley
Any milk, half and half or combination can be used instead of cream. Should be stored covered in the refrigerator.
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This Instant Pot Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is the ultimate weeknight dinner—quick, flavorful, and packed with protein! Tender ground beef is seasoned with bold spices, then cooked to perfection with rice and black beans all in just 10 minutes!
Top it off with fresh toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado for a meal that’s satisfying, customizable, and ready in no time. It’s a regular on our dinner menu for busy nights when you want a delicious, one-pot dinner!
Family dinner ideas that are quick and easy are something that I am always on the hunt for! The flavor of this is fantastic but my very favorite part, aside from the fact that you can add in or substitute anything you want, it’s done in 10 minutes! Do you hear that?! DINNER IN TEN MINUTES!
These Instant Pot Quick and Easy Ground Beef Burrito Bowls are being added to that list. They are so flavorful and my kids love them! They can put whatever toppings they want on their own bowl. It not only allows them to be creative in the kitchen, but they are also more likely to eat something they have helped cook.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Burrito Bowls
I always like to include a quick list of ingredients so our readers can get a glimpse of everything they will need ahead of time. For all the details and measurements needed, keep scrolling down to the recipe card at the end of the post.
Ground Beef: We almost always use 85/15 ground beef when it comes to cooking. It has just enough fat to maintain the flavor without being too greasy.
Olive Oil: used to sauté the onions
Onion: adds flavor
Taco Seasoning: I like to make a big batch of homemade taco seasoning and then have it on hand whenever I need it. You could also use any store-bought taco seasoning of your choice.
Rice: just regular long grain white rice works great
Black Beans: Be sure to drain and rinse them so you don’t add extra moisture to the dish.
Tomatoes with Diced Green Chiles: Rotel is a great brand for this, or you could use a can of fire roasted tomatoes
Frozen Corn: Fresh corn cut off the cob could also be used if you have it.
Beef Broth: the moisture needed to cook the rice
Colby Jack Cheese: I love the taste of colby jack in Mexican recipes but you could use monterey jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend that you buy at the grocery store.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef?
Now, I know that no one wants to think about getting meat out to defrost, but it really is best to use thawed meat. And just in case you don’t, I tried partially thawed ground beef and it totally worked. NOT frozen, but frozen in the center. Hope my efforts to test help a stressed out mom. If it does, please send gift cards for hot french fries to, Carrian… oh just kidding, fresh baked bread will do as well. 😉
Instant Pot Recipes
We have been dialing up our instant pot game and creating more recipes for you all, and for us too. I mean, we create recipes for ourselves, but we always have you all in mind too! You can find all of our Instant Pot Recipes here. We have everything from BBQ ribs to peanut butter cup cheesecake.
If you are new to the instant pot or you want a concise list of the cook times for all your basic foods, check out our Instant Pot Cheat Sheet!
Quick Release or Natural Release?
When the instant pot has done its thing, you will want to do a quick pressure release. When the pressure has gone down, you can open the lid and give the rice a good fluff. Add the cheese to the top and put the lid back on for a minute or two until the cheese has melted.
What Size Instant Pot Do I Need?
We have had a lot of questions about what instant pot is the best. We still love our 6 Qt 9 Function Instant Pot. It is the perfect size for our family of 5. If you’re feeding more people, you might want to look into the 8qt size. If you’re cooking for one or two people, then the 3qt will be just fine.
How Do I Make Instant Pot Ground Beef Burrito Bowls?
Like most instant pot recipes that include meat, we start by cooking the meat first. Put your instant pot in “saute” mode and brown your ground beef. We don’t know how we ever lived before getting our ground beef meat chopper (see link below). It is so awesome!
What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?
Before you ask, we prefer to use 85/15 ground beef. It has just enough fat to have a deep, delicious flavor but not so much that your dish is greasy.
After you have browned the ground beef, you can add the taco seasoning and diced onions with some olive oil and sauté them until the onions start to soften and the ground beef is cooked. Then add some olive oil and the uncooked rice. We have found that sauteing the rice for a minute or two gives it such a great flavor.
Add the last four ingredients (black beans, canned tomatoes, corn and beef broth) and give everything a good stir with a wooden spoon. You can totally swap these four ingredients for other things you love…pinto beans instead of black perhaps! Put the lid on your instant pot, lock it and set it to “manual” high pressure for 7 minutes.
Then you can dish up bowls for everyone and let everyone put the toppings on that they want. It’s like choose your own burrito bowl adventure! We like to sort of make a burrito bowl bar with all the toppings out so everyone can personalize their bowl. The kids go crazy for this! Here are some of our favorite toppings:
How Do I Clean My Instant Pot?
You can clean an instant pot same the way you would any other nice pan. We like to clean it by hand in the sink rather than putting it in the dishwasher. We share all our tips for cleaning an instant pot in our post for Instant Pot Turkey Chili.
What Do I Do if I Get a Burn Error on My Instant Pot?
If you get a burn error on your instant pot, you’re fired! Haha! Just kidding, it can totally happen. Head over to our post for our Award Winning Healthy Turkey Instant Pot Chili where we go into details about what can cause the burn error, how to avoid it, and how to fix it.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for up to 5 days. We don’t usually end up with many leftovers of this recipe, but I tend to reheat individual servings in the microwave. They make a great lunch the next day!
You are going to love this fast and easy family dinner! Dinner on the table in 10 minutes?! Are you out of your mind?! Instant Pot Quick and Easy Ground Beef Burrito Bowls should be next on your dinner menu!
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This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is one of those recipes I keep in my back pocket for busy nights when I want something comforting but don’t want to think too hard about dinner. It’s sweet, savory, glossy, and comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients. No store-bought sauce here!
If takeout teriyaki is your usual go-to, this homemade version is going to surprise you. It’s faster than delivery, easy to customize, and one of those meals everyone at the table is happy to see.
The Best Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Cade loves sushi. Like, loves it. I think it is horrid. Wait, I know, you all love it too, but I just can’t jump on that bandwagon. I kind of want to, but at this point I’m just trying to find ways to survive. For example, I adore Cade and because he loves sushi I love going out with him for it.
The only stinky part is that then I sit there with nothing to eat, so I generally try to get a teriyaki chicken bowl or something similar. I loved an easy teriyaki chicken bowl growing up and remember how I told you about our teriyaki chicken quesadillas? Yeah, pretty much delicious. So why have I never posted such an easy and delicious recipe?!
I think the real secret to teriyaki chicken, other than a good sauce, is actually the meat you use. Everyone goes for breast meat, which is awesome and leaner, but it’s all about them thighs! Chicken thighs are more moist and work so well with the teriyaki sauce.
In fact, maybe I should ask if they could make a teriyaki chicken sushi roll!!! GENIUS! Oh, wait, except I don’t love the seaweed. Dagnabit! See! I’ve tried to like the stuff. Any recommendations on what kind I should try that would be better for me to ease into? And in the meantime, bust out our easy teriyaki chicken bowl for the fam!
Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients
The best part of this teriyaki chicken recipe is, without a doubt, the homemade chicken teriyaki sauce. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Water: Thins the sauce to the right consistency and helps balance the salty-sweet flavors so the teriyaki doesn’t become too intense.
Soy Sauce: Provides the savory, salty backbone of the sauce and delivers classic umami flavor essential to teriyaki.
Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and savory warmth, giving the sauce that rich, homemade flavor.
Brown Sugar: Contributes sweetness while also helping the sauce caramelize slightly as it cooks, creating a glossy finish.
Honey: Adds a smoother, more rounded sweetness and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the chicken.
Ground Ginger: Brings gentle warmth and subtle spice that balances the sweetness and enhances the overall depth of flavor.
Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce as it cooks, creating that signature glossy, restaurant-style teriyaki coating.
Chicken Thighs: Stay tender and juicy during cooking and absorb the sauce well, making them ideal for a flavorful teriyaki dish.
Salt and Pepper: Enhance and balance the overall flavor of the chicken without overpowering the sauce.
Sesame Seedsand Green Onions: Add texture, freshness, and a finishing touch — the sesame seeds bring a light nutty crunch, while green onions add brightness and color.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken
This truly is such a simple teriyaki chicken recipe. All you have to do is whisk together the chicken teriyaki sauce, grill the chicken, and serve! Here are the step-by-step instructions:
Make the Sauce: Add all the sauce ingredients to a saucepan and stir. Bring to a boil.
Thicken the Sauce: Whisk the water and cornstarch together then slowly whisk into the sauce cooking at a soft boil for 1-3 minutes or until thick. Set aside.
Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Place on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side.
NOTE: The safe internal temperature for chicken thighs is 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to make sure it is done.
Rest: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 2 minutes then cut into slices.
Serve: Put the chicken on a bed of rice and serve over rice with the teriyaki sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
FAQs
Is Teriyaki Sauce Gluten-Free?
The most common source of gluten in teriyaki sauce is the soy sauce. Most soy sauces, unless labeled gluten-free, contain wheat as well as soybeans, salt and water.
What Can You Substitute for Rice in Teriyaki Chicken?
If you want to make your dish healthier, you can serve this easy teriyaki chicken with brown rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or in a lettuce wrap.
Can I Make Teriyaki Chicken in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Make the sauce the same as the directions state, then place the chicken in the slow cooker, salt and pepper it, and then pour the sauce over it. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or high for 2.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken
Nine times out of ten, we serve teriyaki chicken with rice. It’s timeless, classic and so delicious! It also goes great with noodles or even just steamed veggies in a teriyaki chicken bowl with veggies.
If desired, you could use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs. However, we prefer using chicken thighs in this teriyaki chicken recipe as they result in a richer, juicier dish.
You can cook the chicken outdoors on a grill or indoors on a grill pan. And if you don’t have either, simply cook the chicken in an oiled skillet.
We like to garnish this no fuss teriyaki chicken with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, but both are optional.
For a fun twist, add some pineapple chunks to the teriyaki sauce. I love the texture and sweetness it adds!
Storing, Freezing and Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator and will keep for 4-5 days. I prefer to store the chicken with the sauce but you can store them separately if you want.
This also freezes extremely well. I like to use our food saver to freeze the chicken and teriyaki sauce together. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, let the frozen chicken thaw completely and then reheat it on the stovetop in a skillet.
Stop buying your teriyaki sauce at the grocery store! It is so simple to make at home with this teriyaki chicken recipe. It is the best of the best!
This easy teriyaki chicken is proof that weeknight dinners don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With tender chicken, a simple homemade sauce, and endless ways to serve it, this is a recipe you’ll make again and again.
More TERIYAKI Recipes:
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Heat a saucepan over medium heat and add the water, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, honey and ground ginger. Bring to a boil.
1 Cup Water, ⅓ Cup Soy Sauce, ½ Cup Brown Sugar, 1 Clove Garlic, 1 Tablespoon Honey, ½ teaspoon Ground Ginger
Meanwhile, whisk the water and cornstarch together then slowly whisk into the sauce.
2 Tablespoons Water, 2 Tablespoons Cornstarch
Allow the sauce to continue cooking at a soft boil for 1-3 minutes or until thick. Set aside.
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium high heat.
Sprinkle each side of the chicken with salt and pepper.
8 Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Salt and Pepper
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Allow to rest on a plate for 2 minutes, then cut into slices.
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*Kitchen Nostalgia is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
I’m a recipe developer, food writer, stylist, and video producer (and The Kitchn’s Dinner Therapist), with more than 10 years professional experience. Since graduating from The French Culinary Institute, I’ve authored 3 cookbooks: Buddha Bowls, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, and The Probiotic Kitchen.
I’m a recipe developer, food stylist, and content producer. I’ve spent the past seven years at meal kit companies like Marley Spoon and Dinnerly, teaching at food nonprofits, and doing a little farming. Originally from Houston, I live with my partner, dog, cat, and rabbit. We all love local, seasonal produce.
I’m a recipe developer, food writer, stylist, and video producer (and The Kitchn’s Dinner Therapist), with more than 10 years professional experience. Since graduating from The French Culinary Institute, I’ve authored 3 cookbooks: Buddha Bowls, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, and The Probiotic Kitchen.
After graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, I worked at Cook’s Illustrated and CHOW’s test kitchens. I’ve edited and tested recipes for more than 15 years, including developing recipes for the James Beard-award winning Mister Jiu’s in Chinatown cookbook. My favorite taste testers are my husband, Hayden, and daughter, Sophie.
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This lasagna soup recipe has everything you love about classic lasagna with savory meat, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, andplenty of melty cheese all in one cozy bowl.
A few years ago my husband and I had the chance to go to New York and film two episodes of Paula’s Party. It was such a fun experience. We even got to meet Carson Kressley, Cheri Oteri, Jason Priestly and a bunch of others. One of the dishes Paula made was Tastes Like Lasagna Soup and it smelled amazing. We were so disappointed we didn’t get to taste it, so when we got home we created our own version. It quickly became a favorite.
There’s just something about lasagna soup that feels like home. It’s saucy, cheesy, cozy, and truly the best kind of comfort food.
Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
This soup recipe is a cross between a creamy soup and broth soup due to the addition of a little ricotta. It’s hearty, beefy, and delicious. In other words, perfection. Here is what you will need:
Olive Oil: For sautéing veggies
Minced Vegetables: Diced onion (red), garlic, and bell peppers
Fresh Herbs: Oregano, parsley, and basil
Ground Beef: 80/20 for rich flavor
Beef Broth: Forms the soup base
Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess
Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Smoky flavor with a hint of heat
Marinara Sauce: Rao’s recommended (stock up at Costco sales!)
Parmesan Rind: Simmer for flavor, remove before serving
Lasagna Noodles: Use broken pieces or break up fresh ones
Scroll to the end of the post to the recipe card to see all the measurements and details.
How to Make Lasagna Soup
This recipe comes together so quickly, and the steps are super easy. Here are the basic steps:
Sauté: Cook the vegetables until tender, then stir in the herbs and seasonings.
Brown: Add the beef, cook until browned, and drain any excess grease.
Simmer:Stir in all remaining ingredients (except pasta and cheese) and let simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to all day for deeper flavor.
Add: Drop in the pasta and cook until tender.
Finish: Top with cheese and broil until hot, melted, and golden.
The full list of instructions can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.
Notes for A Better Lasagna Soup
Carrian’s Tips:
Noodles & leftovers: Lasagna noodles soak up broth the longer they sit, so I always wait until the last 15 minutes to add them. If you’re planning to freeze the soup or make a big batch for later, keep the noodles separate and add them fresh when reheating for best texture.
All-day simmer: This soup is perfect for making in the morning and letting it bubble away on low heat. By dinnertime, the flavors are deep and rich, and your whole house will smell like an Italian kitchen.
Herb swaps: Fresh herbs are amazing, but not required. I love using Gourmet Garden tubes for convenience, or you can substitute dried herbs—just remember to use half the amount since dried are more concentrated.
Parmesan rind magic: Never throw away parmesan cheese rinds! Adding one to your soup while it simmers infuses the broth with a salty, nutty richness that you can’t get any other way. Just fish it out before serving. It’s a simple trick that elevates soups, sauces, and even stews.
Cheese pull & bread dunk: The melted, broiled cheese on top is the showstopper. Gooey, golden, and comforting. And while it might seem optional, dipping warm, crusty garlic bread into the soup makes the whole meal next-level cozy.
Variations & Substitutions
You can easily make this lasagna soup vegetarian by skipping the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Want to switch up the protein? Try half ground beef and half Italian sausage, or use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. No regular lasagna noodles? No problem! Bow tie pasta works perfectly, and for a fun twist, try mafalda pasta, which looks like mini lasagna noodles (though it can be harder to find).
For added variety, toss in mushrooms, yellow squash, zucchini, carrots, or spinach cut into bite-sized pieces. Boost the flavor with spices like red pepper flakes, adding just a pinch or sprinkle to taste. Top with your favorite types of cheese for a rich, melty finish.
Slow Cooker & Instant Pot Instructions
This lasagna soup works perfectly in both the crock pot and Instant Pot.
Slow Cooker
For the slow cooker, follow the stovetop instructions through step 7, then transfer everything to the crock pot and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add the pasta 15 minutes before serving, top with cheese, and broil in oven-safe bowls for a melty, golden finish.
Instant Pot
For the Instant Pot, follow the recipe through step 5 using sauté mode. Once cooked, continue to step 10, place the lid on, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release. Add cheese on top and replace the lid to let it melt. For broiled cheese, transfer the soup to oven-safe bowls and broil until golden.
What to Serve With This Lasagna Soup Recipe
I highly recommend serving garlic bread as a side, or any crusty bread you love. A baguette works perfectly, or try our no-knead artisan bread for an extra touch. To balance the richness, I also love a bright, fresh salad on the side. Caesar saladis a classic favorite!
Storing, Freezing and Reheating Lasagna Soup
Properly stored, lasagna soup will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store leftovers in an airtight container.
If you want to double the recipe and freeze some of it, do not add the pasta or cheese. Let the soup cool completely and freeze it in a ziploc bag or a freezer safe container. It will keep for up to 6 months.
To reheat refrigerated soup, just zap it in the microwave until warmed through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop. To reheat frozen soup, let the soup thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then place it in a pan and heat until boiling. Then add the noodles and let simmer until the noodles are cooked. Top with cheese if desired.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This whole recipe can be made in one bowl, which makes prepping, cooking and cleanup such a cinch. Plus, your kids will love it too!
Speaking of cleanup, making a traditional lasagna takes all sorts of pots and pans and mountains of dishes. It really is just a mess afterward (but totally worth it because lasagna is so dang good). With this soup, you get all the same flavors without the mess.
Lasagna soup is so hearty and so comforting! It makes a great dinner for guests or to take to a neighbor. It really is loved by all, even my picky eaters!
In a heavy bottomed pot, over medium heat, add the olive oil until it just starts to shimmer.
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
Add the garlic and onion, stirring as you add it and cook for 3-5 minutes, until translucent.
4 Cloves Garlic, 1 Red Onion
Add the bell pepper, oregano, parsley and basil and season with a little salt and pepper.
1 Bell Pepper, ½ teaspoon Fresh Oregano, 1 Tablespoon Fresh Parsley, 1 ½ teaspoon Fresh Basil, ½ teaspoon Salt, ¼ teaspoon Pepper
Stir to combine and let cook for one minute.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer raw. Drain off any grease.
1 Pound Ground Beef
I’ve decided it’s easiest to add the ricotta in at this point as it will melt into the meat, but you’ll notice I add it in the next step in the video. Either will work.
½ Cup Ricotta
Add the beef broth, marinara, diced tomatoes and parmesan rind.
Let simmer all day for maximum flavor or at least 30 minutes.
The last 15 minutes add the broken lasagna noodles and cook until tender.
2 Cups Lasagna Noodles
Remove parmesan rind.
Place the soup in oven safe bowls or soup mugs and top with a little cheese. You can add another dollop of ricotta here as well if you’d like.
1 Cup Mozzarella Cheese
Heat the broiler to high heat and place the soup in the oven.
Once the cheese is golden and melted remove from the oven and serve with our favorite garlic bread.
Garlic Bread
You can use 1/2 ground beef and 1/2 Italian Sausage for more flavor
You can use any onion you’d like, but I tend to use red like our bolognese sauce
If you don’t have access to fresh herbs, you can substitute half the amount of dry herbs.
You can freeze this soup for up to 6 months, but never with the lasagna noodles or they will absorb liquid. Cool completely and freeze in heavy duty freezer bag or in a covered freezer container.
Add more olive oil to the skillet if it looks dry. Add the onion, peppers, and a pinch of salt. Cook, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, until the onions begin to soften, about 4 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook, stirring, until just toasted, about 1 minute. Stir in the wine, chicken broth, and vinegar. Nestle the pork chops back into the skillet and pour over any collected juices from the plate. Simmer until the sauce is thickened and the chops are cooked through, about 6 minutes, flipping the chops halfway. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes.