The 10 Best Types of Rice for Teriyaki Chicken

Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘Does the type of rice really matter when it comes to teriyaki chicken?’ Well, let me tell you, it absolutely does.

The right rice can make all the difference in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this beloved dish.

So, if you’re ready to take your teriyaki chicken to the next level, join me as we explore the 10 best types of rice that will elevate your culinary experience.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a popular choice for teriyaki chicken because of its fragrant and slightly sticky texture. When I cook teriyaki chicken, I always reach for a bag of jasmine rice.

Its delicate aroma adds a wonderful dimension to the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. The slightly sticky texture of jasmine rice also helps to soak up the rich teriyaki sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Plus, the grains of jasmine rice remain separate and fluffy, providing a satisfying mouthfeel. Whether you are making teriyaki chicken for a quick weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, using jasmine rice will elevate the dish to new heights.

Trust me, once you try it, you won’t go back to any other rice variety.

Basmati Rice

Basmati rice pairs perfectly with the flavorful teriyaki chicken. Its long grains and distinct aroma add an extra layer of sophistication to the dish. I love how each grain remains separate and fluffy, providing a delightful texture to every bite.

The nutty flavor of basmati rice complements the sweet and savory notes of the teriyaki sauce, creating a harmonious balance of tastes. The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Whether I’m enjoying a homemade teriyaki chicken bowl or savoring this dish at a restaurant, basmati rice never fails to impress. Its versatility and ability to enhance the flavors make it a top choice for pairing with teriyaki chicken.

Brown Rice

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try incorporating brown rice into your meals.

I personally love brown rice because it is packed with nutrients and fiber. Unlike white rice, which has been stripped of its bran and germ, brown rice retains these outer layers, making it a whole grain. This means that it contains more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Brown rice also has a lower glycemic index compared to white rice, which means it won’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. It has a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture, which adds a delicious and satisfying element to any dish.

Sushi Rice

Sushi rice is a short-grain variety that is sticky and perfect for making sushi rolls. I love using sushi rice whenever I make homemade sushi because it has the perfect texture and flavor.

The stickiness of the rice helps the sushi roll hold its shape and allows for easy eating with chopsticks. Additionally, the short grains of sushi rice absorb the vinegar mixture used to season the rice, giving it a delicious tangy taste.

It’s important to rinse sushi rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which can make the rice too sticky. Once cooked, sushi rice becomes slightly translucent and has a slightly sweet taste that pairs well with fresh seafood and vegetables in sushi rolls.

Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is a short-grain variety commonly used in risotto due to its high starch content and ability to create a creamy texture. I love cooking with Arborio rice because it absorbs flavors so well and gives my dishes a rich and satisfying taste.

When I make risotto, I start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter before adding the Arborio rice. Then, I gradually add warm chicken broth, stirring constantly until the rice is cooked and has a luscious, creamy consistency.

The starch in Arborio rice is what makes it so unique and perfect for risotto. It creates a velvety texture that coats each grain and adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Whether I’m making a classic mushroom risotto or a seafood version, Arborio rice is always my go-to choice.

Wild Rice

When you want a nutty and earthy flavor in your dishes, wild rice is the perfect choice.

I love cooking with wild rice because it adds a unique taste and texture to my meals. It has a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile option for both savory and sweet dishes.

Whether I’m making a hearty pilaf or a creamy wild rice soup, the distinct flavor of wild rice always shines through. Plus, the long grains of wild rice have a satisfying chewiness that adds depth to any dish.

I highly recommend trying wild rice if you’re looking to elevate your culinary creations with a delicious and wholesome ingredient.

Black Rice

If you’re searching for a unique and nutritious alternative to traditional white rice, black rice is a fantastic option. It not only adds a pop of color to your plate, but it also comes with a whole range of health benefits.

As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, black rice has become a staple in my pantry. Its deep, nutty flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, and its chewy texture adds a delightful contrast to every bite.

Not only is black rice delicious, but it is also packed with antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free!

Whether you’re looking to jazz up your stir-fry or create a delicious rice salad, black rice is a versatile and nutritious choice that won’t disappoint.

Red Rice

Now that I’ve talked about Black Rice, let’s move on to another type of rice that pairs well with teriyaki chicken: Red Rice.

I absolutely love the nutty and earthy flavor of red rice, which adds a unique twist to the dish. It has a firm texture and a beautiful reddish hue that makes it visually appealing.

Red rice is also packed with nutrients, like iron and zinc, making it a healthier choice compared to white rice. The slightly chewy texture of red rice complements the tender and juicy teriyaki chicken perfectly.

Whether you’re looking for a healthier option or simply want to try something different, red rice is a fantastic choice to elevate your teriyaki chicken experience.

Forbidden Rice

Forbidden rice, also known as black rice, has a rich, nutty flavor and a beautiful deep purple color. I absolutely love cooking with this unique variety of rice.

Not only does it add a pop of color to any dish, but it also has a delightful taste that enhances the overall flavor. The nuttiness of the forbidden rice pairs perfectly with the savory and slightly sweet teriyaki chicken. The contrasting textures and flavors create a harmonious blend that is simply irresistible.

The deep purple color also adds an element of visual appeal to the dish, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Whenever I make teriyaki chicken, I always reach for forbidden rice to take my meal to the next level.

Sticky Rice

Sticky rice, also called glutinous rice, has a sticky texture that is perfect for making traditional Asian desserts like mango sticky rice. I love how the grains of sticky rice cling together, creating a chewy and satisfying bite.

It’s a staple in many Southeast Asian cuisines and adds a unique texture to dishes. When cooked, sticky rice becomes soft and sticky, making it easy to shape into dumplings or roll into sushi. Its sticky nature also allows it to absorb flavors more intensely, making it an excellent choice for savory dishes like sticky rice with Chinese sausage.

Whether it’s sweet or savory, sticky rice never fails to bring a delightful and comforting taste to any meal.