Name: Sweet & Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying); ¼ cup honey; ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium); 2 tablespoons orange juice (or rice vinegar); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry); 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or brown rice); 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 small cucumber, sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; 2 green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds & fresh cilantro for garnish

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Let me take a wild guess—you’re in the mood for something that’s sweet, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. This Sweet & Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl is exactly that, and it’s one of those recipes that will leave you licking your plate clean. With tender chicken glazed in a rich, sticky sauce, all served on a bed of warm rice, it’s comfort food with a punch of flavor that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with how easy it is to make and how big of a hit it’ll be at the table!

Why You’ll Love Sweet & Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

This recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s a mood, and it’s going to bring some serious flavor to your day. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, meal prep for the week, or a dish to impress guests, this chicken bowl does it all. Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and the smell of sticky, sweet chicken filling your kitchen is exactly the comfort you need.
Budget-Friendly: You don’t need any crazy ingredients to pull this off—just a few pantry staples that come together to make magic. It’s the kind of recipe that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to eat something fantastic.
Quick and Easy: No need to be a kitchen pro for this one. The steps are simple, the flavors are bold, and in under 30 minutes, you’re sitting down to a delicious meal.
Customizable: This recipe is like a blank canvas! Want a bit more heat? Add some sriracha. Prefer it sweeter? Amp up the honey. It’s your dish to make as unique as you want!
Crowd-Pleasing: This is one of those meals that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s kids, friends, or family, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with all ages.

Ingredients

Here’s what makes these Sweet & Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls so special:

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The chicken is the heart of this dish—tender, juicy, and perfectly coated in that sweet and sticky glaze. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great!
Soy Sauce: This savory ingredient brings a rich umami flavor that makes the sauce sing. It’s a key player in balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Honey: The magic ingredient that gives the sauce that irresistible sticky sweetness. Plus, it caramelizes beautifully when you cook it.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a warm, savory kick that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness.
Rice (for serving): Fluffy white rice (or brown rice, if you prefer) is the perfect base for this dish. It soaks up all the flavors, making every bite better than the last.
Sesame Oil: This adds a lovely nutty flavor that brings the dish together and enhances the savory notes.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a bit of zing and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the honey and bringing a bit of warmth to the dish.
Chili Flakes or Sriracha (optional): If you’re looking for a little spice, this adds the perfect amount of heat to complement the sweetness.
Green Onions (for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a hint of sharpness to round out the flavor profile.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to bring all these bold flavors together? Here’s how to make your Sweet & Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls:

Cook the Rice: Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. Fluff it up once it’s done and set aside—it’s the perfect base for your flavorful chicken.
Prepare the Chicken: While the rice is cooking, season your chicken breasts (or thighs) with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add sesame oil. Once hot, cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sticky Sauce: In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in soy sauce and honey, stirring to combine. If you like heat, add chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Coat the Chicken: Slice your chicken into strips, then return it to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat the chicken in the sticky glaze.
Assemble the Bowls: Spoon a generous amount of rice into each bowl. Top with the glazed chicken, then garnish with green onions (and any other toppings you like).
Serve and Enjoy: Your Sweet & Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are ready to enjoy! Dig in and savor that deliciously sweet, savory, and just a touch spicy flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Sweet & Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

This dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and toppings to elevate the meal:

Fresh Salads: Pair with a light, refreshing salad, like a cucumber and carrot slaw, for some crunch and freshness.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas add color and nutrients to the meal.
Pickled Veggies: A little tang goes a long way, so add some pickled onions, cucumbers, or carrots for a zesty contrast to the sweetness of the chicken.
Crispy Toppings: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top for extra texture and flavor.
As a Standalone: The bowls are hearty enough to be a meal on their own, but you can also serve with a side of crispy garlic bread or warm naan to soak up the sauce.

Presentation matters! Serve in cute bowls, drizzle with a little extra sauce, and top with a handful of fresh herbs. Your guests will be impressed before they even take a bite.

Additional Tips

Make this recipe even easier and more flavorful with these handy tips:

Prep Ahead: Chop the garlic, ginger, and green onions in advance to save time when cooking. You can also marinate the chicken in the sauce for an extra boost of flavor.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you love a sweeter dish, add a little more honey. On the flip side, if you prefer it less sweet, reduce the honey slightly or balance it with a splash of vinegar.
Spicy Options: Add more chili flakes or a splash of sriracha if you like your chicken with a little extra heat.
Make It Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for crispy tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep the rice from drying out.
Double the Batch: If you’re making this for a crowd (or want leftovers), it doubles easily! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re making more than one batch of chicken at a time.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of rice?
A1: Absolutely! While white rice works perfectly, you can swap it for brown rice or jasmine rice for a bit more texture and flavor.

Q2: Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can cook and glaze the chicken ahead of time, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and serve over fresh rice.

Q3: Can I freeze the chicken for later?
A3: Yes, this dish freezes well! Store the chicken and sauce separately from the rice in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.

Q4: Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
A4: If you’re not a fan of honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute. Just keep in mind the flavor might vary slightly.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q6: Can I add veggies to the chicken bowls?
A6: Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots is a great way to boost the dish with extra color, flavor, and nutrition. Stir-fry or roast the veggies and serve them alongside or on top of the rice and chicken.

Q7: Can I make this dish spicier?
A7: Definitely! Add more chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for anyone who likes it extra spicy.

Q8: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A8: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are recommended for ease, you can use bone-in chicken as well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Q9: Can I make this dish in advance?
A9: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then assemble the bowls just before serving. It’s great for meal prep!

Q10: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A10: Simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

These Sweet & Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are the ultimate comfort food that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. They’re simple to make, packed with sweet, savory goodness, and will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. So go ahead—get in the kitchen and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a bowl of pure deliciousness!