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Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls feature tender, caramelized chicken tossed in a sweet and savory sauce over fluffy rice, paired with fresh vegetables and customizable toppings. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken thighs or chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 tsp cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 cups cooked rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Assorted vegetables (e.g., 1 cup carrots, 1 cup bell peppers, 1 cup cucumbers)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels.
  • Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
  • Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil. Once hot, add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes.
  • Thicken the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Add the cornstarch slurry and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked rice among 4 serving bowls. Top with sticky chicken and fresh or sautéed vegetables.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.
  • Customization Options:
    • Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh.
    • Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice.
    • Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari.
    • Spicy Version: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: main dish
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired