Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Easy Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Easy Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl features tender chicken coated in a sweet, savory glaze, paired with rice and topped with fresh garnishes. It’s a one-bowl wonder that comes together in no time, perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend meal!


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Chicken:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
    • 2 tablespoons honey
    • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
    • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the Rice:

    • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
    • 2 cups water or chicken broth
    • Pinch of salt

 

  • For Garnishing:

    • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
    • 2 green onions, chopped
    • Fresh cilantro (optional)
    • Sriracha or chili flakes (optional, for some heat)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice:

    • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil, then add the rice and a pinch of salt. Stir once, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Marinade:

    • In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well to combine. (If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce mixture.)
    • Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides, and then place them in the bowl with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 10-15 minutes (or up to 1 hour for more flavor).
  3. Cook the Chicken:

    • Heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. (You can also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.) While cooking, spoon some of the marinade over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.
  4. Prepare the Sauce:

    • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Pour the remaining marinade into the same pan and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes sticky.
  5. Assemble the Rice Bowls:

    • Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Place a serving of rice into each bowl and top with the sliced chicken.
    • Drizzle the thickened sticky sauce over the chicken and rice.
  6. Garnish and Serve:

    • Sprinkle sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and cilantro over the bowls. Add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle chili flakes for some extra heat, if desired.
  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    Serve the bowls hot, and enjoy the delicious combination of sticky chicken and fluffy rice!

Notes

  • For a veggie boost, you can add sautéed veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to the bowl.
  • If you like it extra sticky, reduce the marinade further before serving to make it thicker.

 

  • Feel free to swap the honey for maple syrup or agave for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian

Keywords: Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl, Easy Chicken Rice Bowl, Sweet and Savory Chicken, Rice Bowls, Healthy Chicken Dinner