Mom had one taste and instantly wanted to know how to make it.

There's something magical about combining the heartiness of Midwestern cooking with a touch of the East. This teriyaki chicken casserole is a perfect example of how our grandmothers' casseroles can evolve while still holding on to that comforting, homey feel. It's a dish that's perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night in, bridging the richness of traditional casseroles with the sweet and savory notes of teriyaki. It's bound to become a favorite in any household.

This teriyaki chicken casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or a side of fluffy white rice. If you're looking to keep things traditional, a nice slice of homemade bread would also be a lovely accompaniment. For a touch of freshness, consider serving with a tangy cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the rich flavors.

Servings: 6

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
2 cups rice, cooked
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly with olive oil.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and peas.

Add the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the veggies are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

You can easily add more vegetables to this casserole, like snap peas or green beans, depending on what you have on hand. For a different flavor profile, try using a different type of cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack. If you're looking to make it a bit healthier, opt for brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. You can also make your teriyaki sauce from scratch if you're looking to control sweetness and preservatives.