Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are an easy, warm meal you can make any week. Tender chicken bites cook in a sweet and savory sauce that clings to each piece. You will build bowls with soft, hot rice as the base and the sticky chicken piled on top. The sauce uses simple pantry items and takes minutes to mix. This dish works for a quick dinner, a lunch meal prep, or a cozy night when you want food that feels like a treat but still makes a full plate.

The recipe moves fast. First you cook diced chicken until it browns and cooks through. Then you stir in the sauce and let it simmer a short time so it thickens and coats the meat. Garnishes such as sliced green onions and sesame seeds add color and a little crunch. Leftovers reheat well and keep their taste in the fridge for a few days. You can pair the bowl with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Kids and adults both like the bright, sticky flavor. This guide will walk you step by step. Take a little time to read the tips and variations so you can make it your own today too.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls bring bold taste with no fuss. The sauce is sweet, salty, and a little tangy. It makes small chicken pieces glossy and full of flavor. The meal comes together quickly which fits busy nights. You only need a few common pantry items. Rice gives a soft base that soaks up the sauce. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for fresh color and a light crunch. Kids and adults often ask for seconds. Leftovers keep well and reheat without losing much flavor. This bowl is simple, filling, and friendly for a weeknight plan. Try it tonight.

How to Make Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to make the sauce.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Serve the chicken over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Serve the hot sticky chicken right over warm rice. Add steamed or sautéed vegetables on the side or on top for color and more texture. Sprinkle the green onions and sesame seeds last so they stay bright. Offer extra sauce on the side for people who want more. A light salad or simple steamed greens make a good balance with the sweet sauce.

How to Store Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Cool the leftovers to room temperature then place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts until hot. If the sauce looks too thick after cooling, add a splash of water while reheating to loosen it up.

Tips for the Best Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

• Cut the chicken into even pieces so it cooks at the same rate.
• Use hot cooked rice so it soaks up the sauce faster.
• Watch the sauce as it cooks; it can thicken quickly.
• Toast sesame seeds briefly for more nutty flavor.
• Taste the sauce and adjust honey or soy sauce to match your salt-sweet balance.

Recipe Variations (if any)

• Add steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for more color and veg.
• Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice to change the base.
• Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breast for more juiciness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
A: Yes. Cook the chicken and rice, then store in separate containers. Reheat and combine when you are ready to eat.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Thaw frozen chicken fully before dicing and cooking to ensure even cooking and safe temperature.

Q: How do I stop the sauce from burning?
A: Keep the heat at medium and stir often. If it gets too thick, add a small splash of water to loosen it.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

For a clear visual step guide, see Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls – Erin Lives Whole which shows the process. For another simple take and extra tips, check Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls – Alaska from Scratch.

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