Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe

A Sweet, Savory, and Satisfying Dish

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are the perfect combination of tender chicken, a sticky, flavorful sauce, and fluffy rice. This dish brings together the sweet and savory balance of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, making every bite packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, these rice bowls are an easy and delicious option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors – A delicious mix of sweet, savory, and umami.
• Versatile – Swap out chicken for tofu, shrimp, or beef for variety.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sticky Sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch-water mixture to the sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens.
5. Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss until well coated in the sticky sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Top with the sticky chicken, sliced cucumber, julienned carrots, and chopped green onions.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and fresh cilantro on top. Enjoy immediately!

Recipe Variations

• Protein Swap: Try using shrimp, tofu, or beef instead of chicken.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with extra-firm tofu or tempeh.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to increase or decrease the heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: The chicken can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slurry or simmer it for a bit longer until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, though it may be slightly less juicy than thighs.

What rice works best for this dish?

Jasmine or basmati rice is ideal, but you can also use brown rice or quinoa.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge for a few days.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.

What vegetables can I add?

Bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or edamame are great additions.

Can I air-fry the chicken?

Yes! Air-fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

What toppings pair well with this dish?

Avocado, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo add great flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double all ingredients and use a larger pan to cook evenly.

Conclusion

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. With its balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you enjoy it fresh or as a meal-prep option, this dish is satisfying and versatile. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!

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