© Original recipe by Serena Miller ©
Easy Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl 🐔🍚✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that comes together quickly, look no further than the easy sticky chicken rice bowl. This dish combines tender, caramelized chicken with fluffy rice, all coated in a deliciously sticky glaze that will keep you coming back for more. Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, this flavorful chicken rice bowl offers comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is a versatile choice for anyone who loves hearty, Asian-inspired flavors.
2. Ingredients for the Easy Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl
- 2 cups jasmine rice (or preferred rice)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced into strips
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
- Vegetable oil for cooking
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Create a Flavorful Chicken Rice Bowl
Prepare the rice
Cook the rice according to package instructions. For the best flavor, use jasmine rice, which pairs perfectly with Asian-inspired dishes. Set aside once cooked and keep warm.
Make the sticky sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This will be your flavorful glaze that gives the easy chicken rice bowl its signature sticky texture and savory taste.
Cook the chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Glaze the chicken
In the same skillet, pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer. If you prefer a thicker glaze, stir in cornstarch dissolved in a little water and cook until glossy. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly, allowing the sauce to become sticky and caramelized.
Assemble the bowl
Serve the sticky chicken over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and crunch.
4. Tips for Perfect Results
For an even more flavorful easy chicken rice bowl, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Using freshly grated ginger and high-quality soy sauce also enhances the depth of flavor. Remember to keep an eye on the sauce as it thickens to prevent burning.
5. Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until hot, or reheat in a skillet until warmed through. For maintaining the sticky texture, add a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of honey before reheating.
6. Serving Suggestions and Variations
This flavorful chicken rice bowl pairs well with steamed vegetables, chopped bok choy, or a side of Asian slaw. For added crunch, sprinkle with crushed peanuts or cashews. For a spicy kick, include a dash of sriracha or chili flakes in the sauce.
Looking for more Asian-inspired recipes? Check out our French Onion Soup Pizza or indulge in sweet breakfasts with our Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake.
7. FAQ – Common Questions about the Easy Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they tend to be leaner and may require slightly shorter cooking time. Thighs tend to stay juicier and are ideal for this recipe.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure your rice vinegar and other condiments are gluten-free.
How long does it take to prepare?
This easy chicken rice bowl can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick dinners.
Is this dish healthy?
While it’s flavorful, you can make it healthier by reducing the honey and choosing low-sodium soy sauce. Adding vegetables will boost the nutritional value.
8. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: This versatile appliance speeds up cooking and allows you to prepare crispy vegetables or chicken with less oil, enhancing the flavor and texture.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Perfect for sautéing and simmering sauces with ease, this cookware set makes the cooking process efficient and enjoyable.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: Use this to grill or air fry vegetables or chicken, adding extra flavor & texture to your bowl.
9. Conclusion
The easy sticky chicken rice bowl is a delightful, flavorful meal that combines tender chicken with sticky, caramelized glaze served over fluffy rice. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners, offering both taste and convenience. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your home kitchen. Experiment with variations, add your favorite vegetables, and enjoy a comforting bowl that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Easy Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl
A flavorful and sticky chicken rice bowl that’s quick to prepare, combining tender caramelized chicken with fluffy rice and fresh toppings.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into pieces
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for 10 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until caramelized and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Serve the chicken over hot jasmine rice, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free (use gluten-free soy sauce)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
