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