Sticky chicken rice bowls topped with fresh herbs and vegetables

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and a rich sticky sauce, this dish packs a lot of flavor. It’s also customizable, so you can adjust the toppings and heat level to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a quick meal prep option, these rice bowls are a winner.

how to make Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Ingredients:

  • 2 cup uncooked rice
  • 2 small heads broccoli, chopped
  • 3 large chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Sticky Sauce:
    • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    • 1/2 cup honey
    • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 tbsp sriracha
    • 2 tsp sesame oil
    • 1 tsp ground ginger
    • 2 tsp arrowroot powder mixed with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry (sub cornstarch)
  • Spicy mayo:
    • 1/2 cup mayo
    • 1 tbsp sriracha
    • 2–3 tbsp water
  • Sesame seeds for topping

Directions:

  1. Cook rice according to the package instructions.
  2. Steam the broccoli in a microwave or on the stovetop until fork-tender. Set aside.
  3. Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces.
  4. Toss the chicken with olive oil and all the spices.
  5. Lay the chicken flat in the air fryer and cook in the preheated air fryer at 400°F for 12 minutes or until the chicken reaches 160°F internally.
  6. While the chicken is cooking, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, and ground ginger in a sauce pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Once boiling, add the arrowroot slurry to the pot. Let it boil for 4-5 minutes or until the sauce thickens significantly.
  8. Prepare the bowls by layering the rice, broccoli, chicken, and drizzling with the sticky sauce.
  9. Mix the spicy mayo ingredients and drizzle it on top. Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds.

how to serve Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Serve the Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls warm for the best flavor. You can place all the ingredients into individual bowls, allowing everyone to mix their own. This dish pairs well with a cold drink or a light salad on the side.

how to store Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

To store leftover Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls, let them cool completely. Place the chicken, rice, and broccoli in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and rice in separate containers for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave when ready to eat!

tips to make Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.

variation (if any)

You can easily adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less sriracha to the sauce or spicy mayo. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as brown rice usually takes longer to cook.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. Assemble the bowls right before serving for the best taste.

3. How can I make the sauce less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, decrease the amount of honey used in the sauce or add a splash of extra soy sauce for a saltier balance.