Name: Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe: Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Breasts (Quick-cooking and easy to slice into strips.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Substitute with any neutral oil if desired.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Essential for seasoning.); 1 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust according to taste.); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Increase for more heat.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Use regular paprika if needed.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Optional.); 1 teaspoon Oregano (Italian seasoning can be a good substitute.); 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (Use gluten-free soy sauce if needed.); 1/4 cup Honey (Maple syrup works as vegan alternative.); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar can be swapped in.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 1 teaspoon Sriracha (Adjust based on preference.); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Can be replaced with vegetable oil.); 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (Fresh ginger is a suitable substitute.); 1 tablespoon Arrowroot Powder (Cornstarch is a suitable substitute.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can lighten it up.); 2 cups Jasmine Rice (Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used.); 2 cups Broccoli (Cut into small florets.); 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (For topping.)

As I stood by the stove, the enticing aroma of sizzling chicken filled the kitchen, instantly whisking me away to cozy weeknight dinners from my childhood. This Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe is not just about a meal; it’s a delightful anthem to comfort food that captures both heart and taste. The combination of tender chicken glazed in a sweet and spicy sauce, paired with vibrant broccoli and fluffy rice is truly irresistible. What’s better? This dish takes only 35 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable—whether you’re gluten-free or looking to switch up the flavors, there’s something for everyone. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of pure deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Why Will You Enjoy Sticky Chicken Bowls?

Simplicity at Its Best: This Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe is quick and easy to whip up, perfect for weeknight meals without sacrificing flavor.

Flavorful Guarantee: The fusion of sweet and spicy sauce with succulent chicken will tantalize your taste buds with every bite.

Customizable Delights: Adjust the ingredients based on your preferences—try swapping rice for quinoa or adding extra veggies for more crunch!

Meal Prep Friendly: Make the sauce ahead; it can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days, saving you time on busy days.

Nostalgic Comfort: Inspired by childhood favorites, this dish wraps you in a warm embrace of flavor, reminiscent of cozy dinners at home.

If you’re craving more delightful chicken ideas, you might also love my Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Garlic Parmesan Chicken.

Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Quick-cooking and easy to slice into strips for even cooking.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for searing, but feel free to substitute with any neutral oil.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Pepper – Helps balance the sweetness in the sauce; adjust according to your taste.
• Chili Powder – Adds a gentle warmth; increase for those who enjoy a bit more heat.
• Smoked Paprika – Delivers a subtle smoky flavor; use regular paprika if needed.
• Onion Powder – Optional but rounds out the savory profile beautifully.
• Oregano – Adds an herbaceous hint; Italian seasoning can be a good substitute.

For the Sticky Sauce
• Soy Sauce – The salty backbone of the sticky sauce; use gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
• Honey – Provides the signature stickiness and sweetness; maple syrup works as a vegan alternative.
• Rice Vinegar – Brightens the overall flavor of the sauce; apple cider vinegar can be swapped in.
• Garlic (minced) – Infuses the sauce with aromatic punch for depth of flavor.
• Sriracha – Delivers heat; adjust based on spice preference or omit if you like it milder.
• Sesame Oil – Offers a nutty depth; you can replace it with vegetable oil if desired.
• Ground Ginger – Adds warmth and further richness; fresh ginger is a great substitute if finely minced.
• Arrowroot Powder – Thickens the sauce for clinginess; cornstarch is a suitable substitute.

For the Creamy Drizzle
• Mayonnaise – Acts as the base for the creamy spicy mayo drizzle; Greek yogurt can lighten it up.

For Assembly
• Jasmine Rice – Offers a fluffy texture; quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used for lower carbs.
• Broccoli – Adds color and crunch; frozen broccoli works well if thawed and patted dry.
• Sesame Seeds – A decorative topping that brings a delightful nutty crunch to your dish.

Customize your Sticky Chicken Bowls with these ingredients, and enjoy a delicious meal in just 35 minutes!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Rice
Begin by cooking the jasmine rice according to package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the rice, bringing water to a boil, adding the rice, and simmering for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy. Once done, fluff it with a fork and set aside, allowing the rice to absorb all its lovely steam.

Step 2: Prepare Ingredients
While the rice is cooking, chop the broccoli into small florets for even cooking. Next, take the chicken breasts and slice them into strips. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and oregano. This seasoning will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken strips to the pan in a single layer. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Broccoli
In the same skillet, you can either steam or sauté the broccoli. If using the skillet, add a splash of water and cover for about 3-5 minutes until tender yet vibrant. Alternatively, sauté the broccoli in a bit of olive oil for about 4-5 minutes until it’s vibrant green and slightly crisp.

Step 5: Make Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, ground ginger, and arrowroot powder slurry. Pour this sticky sauce mixture into the hot skillet, stirring to combine with any leftover chicken drippings. Simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 6: Prepare Spicy Mayo
While the sauce is thickening, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, and a splash of water in a small bowl until smooth and drizzleable. Adjust the sriracha to your taste, depending on how spicy you want the creamy drizzle to be.

Step 7: Assemble Bowls
To assemble your Sticky Chicken Bowls, start with a generous scoop of jasmine rice in each bowl. Top with the sticky chicken and tender broccoli, ensuring to cover the rice nicely. Drizzle the spicy mayo over the top and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch and visual appeal. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners!

Make Ahead Options

These Sticky Chicken Bowls are perfect for busy weeknights and make meal prep a breeze! You can prepare the sticky sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, ensuring maximum flavor. Additionally, chop the broccoli ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours to maintain its freshness. When ready to serve, simply cook the chicken and broccoli, simmer them in the prepared sauce, and then assemble your bowls with the cooked rice. This way, you enjoy a delightful, comforting meal that feels just as good as if it were freshly made!

Expert Tips for Sticky Chicken Bowls

• Perfect Chicken Cooking: Ensure the skillet isn’t overcrowded; this allows the chicken to brown evenly and enhances flavor.

• Flavor Balance: Adjust the quantity of honey and sriracha based on your taste preferences to maintain a good balance in your sticky sauce.

• Consistent Broccoli: Cut broccoli into uniform florets for even cooking, ensuring each piece is tender yet crisp for a delightful crunch in every bite.

• Sauce Thickness: If your sticky sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a little warm water to achieve the desired consistency before serving.

• Meal Customization: Make your Sticky Chicken Bowls unique by experimenting with different veggies or grains based on what you have on hand!

Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe Variations

Feel free to personalize your Sticky Chicken Bowls for a delightful twist on this classic comfort dish!

Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise for avocado or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a creamy finish without dairy.
Spicy Kick: Increase sriracha in the sauce or add fresh sliced jalapeños for an extra heat boost that tantalizes the taste buds.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots along with broccoli for a colorful and nutritious veggie boost.
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delicious twist that maintains great texture and flavor.
Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup in addition to honey for a more complex sweetness that rounds out the dish.
Grilled Goodness: Grill the chicken strips on skewers for a summer feel, and serve with a citrusy dipping sauce for added zest.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Ensure all sauces and ingredients are gluten-free, like using tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini for a lighter, low-carb alternative that still feels comforting.

Enhance your meal with these variations, and if you’re looking for more chicken ideas, check out my delightful Thai Peanut Chicken or flavorful Sweet Chili Chicken!

How to Store and Freeze Sticky Chicken Bowls

Fridge: Store leftover Sticky Chicken Bowls in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken separate from the rice to maintain texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if the rice is dry to restore moisture.

Sauce Storage: The sticky sauce can be made in advance and stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days for use in future meals.

What to Serve with Sticky Chicken Bowls?

Nothing completes a delicious meal quite like thoughtful pairings that enhance your dining experience.

Crispy spring rolls: Light and crunchy, they add a delightful texture contrast to your bowls. Try serving with a side dipping sauce for extra flavor!
Garlic sautéed greens: Tender kale or spinach tossed in garlic provide a fresh, vibrant element that complements the richness of the sticky sauce beautifully.
Fresh cucumber salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar add a refreshing crunch, cutting through the sweetness of the chicken and giving a clean finish.
Creamy coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a creamy element that balances the sticky chicken’s strong flavors, enhancing your overall meal.
Chilled white wine: A light, fruity white wine or a sparkling beverage elevates your dining experience, invigorating each bite and making it feel special.
Fruit sorbet: Close out your meal with a refreshing fruit sorbet. Its coolness and sweetness make a delightful contrast with the warm, spicy chicken.

Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for ones that are pale pink, firm, and free of dark spots. Ideally, they should be plump and have a little bounce when you press them. Avoid any packages that contain excess liquid or have a slimy texture, as these can indicate spoilage.

What’s the best way to store leftover Sticky Chicken Bowls?
To keep your Sticky Chicken Bowls fresh, store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. They will stay good for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the chicken separate from the rice to maintain each ingredient’s texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Sticky Chicken Bowls?
Very! For freezing, portion out the Sticky Chicken Bowls in airtight freezer-friendly bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. When ready to eat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if the rice has dried out.

What if my sauce isn’t thickening properly?
If your sauce isn’t reaching the desired thickness, don’t worry! Start by simmering it for an additional minute or two. If it’s still too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into your sauce and simmer for another minute until it thickens up beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! For gluten-free options, make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce. If you’re concerned about allergies, be aware of common ingredients like sesame oil and sriracha, which can contain allergens. As a personal touch, you can adjust this recipe to suit vegetarian diets by using tofu or jackfruit instead of chicken for a delicious alternative.