Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe

A Sweet, Savory, and Satisfying Meal

Sticky chicken rice bowls bring together tender chicken glazed in a rich, glossy sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice with fresh vegetables. This dish strikes the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a convenient dinner option.
• Bold Flavors – A sticky, umami-packed sauce coats the juicy chicken for a delicious bite every time.
• Customizable – Easily swap out vegetables or protein to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)

For serving:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• 1 cup steamed broccoli or snap peas
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook the chicken in a single layer, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Make the Sticky Sauce

• In the same skillet, add soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir well.
• Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, then add the cornstarch slurry. Stir continuously until thickened.

3. Coat the Chicken

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sticky sauce. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

4. Assemble the Bowls

• Divide the cooked rice into bowls.
• Top with sticky chicken, steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions.
• Garnish with sesame seeds for extra texture.

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
• Different Proteins – Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef.
• Extra Crunch – Sprinkle crushed peanuts or cashews on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts work well but may be slightly less juicy than thighs.

What vegetables go well with sticky chicken rice bowls?

Broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, and edamame are great options.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then store separately. Reheat and assemble when ready to serve.

Can I double the sauce for extra flavor?

Absolutely! If you like more sauce, double the ingredients but adjust the cornstarch slurry accordingly.

Is there a substitute for hoisin sauce?

You can mix soy sauce, peanut butter, and a little honey as a replacement.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine or basmati rice is ideal, but brown rice or quinoa are good alternatives.

How do I make the sauce less sweet?

Reduce the honey and brown sugar slightly or add more vinegar for balance.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

What’s the best way to meal prep this dish?

Portion everything into containers with rice and veggies, keeping sauce on the side if you want to prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

Sticky chicken rice bowls are an easy and delicious way to enjoy a flavorful, well-balanced meal. With a simple homemade sauce and fresh ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Try it with your favorite vegetables and enjoy a satisfying, restaurant-quality dish at home!

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