Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

These Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep, this dish features tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sticky sauce, paired with fresh broccoli and creamy spicy mayo. The vibrant colors and bold tastes will surely impress your family and friends!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the bowls:
• For the sticky sauce:
• For the spicy mayo:
• Toppings:
• How to Make Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
• Step 1: Cook the Rice
• Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
• Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 4: Cook the Chicken
• Step 5: Make the Sticky Sauce
• Step 6: Prepare the Spicy Mayo
• Step 7: Assemble Your Bowls
• How to Serve Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
• For a Family Dinner
• As Meal Prep
• With Extra Toppings
• For a Lighter Option
• How to Perfect Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
• Best Side Dishes for Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
• Reheating Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I customize my Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls?
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• What if I don’t have sriracha for the spicy mayo?
• Are Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls healthy?
• Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe is easy to follow and can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The sticky sauce and spicy mayo add layers of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli, these bowls are both nutritious and delicious.
• Versatile Options: Customize the bowls with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe makes 5 servings, ideal for preparing meals ahead of time.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls effectively, having the right tools on hand can make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Saucepot
• Mixing bowl
• Steamer or microwave-safe dish
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Cooks the chicken quickly while keeping it juicy, providing a healthier alternative to frying.
• Saucepot: Essential for making the sticky sauce, allowing even heating for optimal thickening.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating chicken with spices, ensuring every piece is flavorful.
• Steamer or microwave-safe dish: Conveniently cooks broccoli to retain its nutrients while achieving the perfect texture.

Ingredients

For the bowls:

• 2 cups uncooked rice
• 2 small heads broccoli, chopped
• 3 large chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano

For the sticky sauce:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sriracha
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry; can substitute cornstarch)

For the spicy mayo:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 2–3 tablespoons water

Toppings:

• Sesame seeds

How to Make Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set aside to keep warm.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

Steam the chopped broccoli until fork-tender. This can be done in the microwave or on the stovetop. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and oregano until well coated.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Lay the seasoned chicken pieces flat in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 5: Make the Sticky Sauce

While cooking chicken, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, and ground ginger in a small saucepot. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, stir in arrowroot slurry. Let it boil for 4-5 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Prepare the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and sriracha. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 7: Assemble Your Bowls

In each serving bowl, layer cooked rice followed by steamed broccoli and air-fried chicken. Drizzle generously with sticky sauce and top with spicy mayo drizzle. Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.

Enjoy your delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls!

How to Serve Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, these bowls are sure to impress. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

For a Family Dinner

• Individual Bowls: Serve each family member their own bowl for a fun and personalized meal.
• Sharing Platter: Create a large platter with all the components, allowing everyone to build their own bowl.

As Meal Prep

• Containers: Portion the chicken, rice, and broccoli into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
• Freezer-Friendly: Store the cooked chicken and sticky sauce separately in the freezer for quick meals later.

With Extra Toppings

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Chili Flakes: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who like an extra kick.

For a Lighter Option

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves instead of rice for a low-carb alternative that’s still delicious.
• Zucchini Noodles: Swap rice with spiralized zucchini for a refreshing twist.

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How to Perfect Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Getting your Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls just right takes a little know-how. Here are some tips for achieving perfection every time you make this dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh produce and high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Marinate the Chicken: Letting the chicken sit in spices for at least 30 minutes enhances its taste significantly.
• Control Sauce Thickness: Adjust your arrowroot slurry carefully; too much can make it overly thick, while too little may leave it runny.
• Cook Rice Properly: Follow package instructions closely to ensure fluffy rice that complements the sticky chicken well.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that work well alongside this dish.

1. Steamed Edamame: A protein-packed snack that adds a nice touch of green to your plate.
2. Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy appetizers provide a delightful contrast to the soft textures of the rice and chicken.
3. Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots dressed with sesame dressing adds crunch and flavor.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the flavors beautifully and warms you up.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, these veggies offer a tasty umami kick.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad provides crispness and balances out the richness of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F for perfect juiciness.
• Neglecting the sauce: A bland sauce can ruin your dish. Make sure to simmer the sticky sauce until it’s thick enough to coat the chicken and rice well.
• Ignoring rice instructions: Different rice types require different cooking times. Always follow package instructions for best results.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to dull flavors. Use a mix of spices as listed in the recipe for maximum taste.
• Not letting the sauce cool: Pouring hot sauce over the dish can make everything soggy. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

• Place in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Keep frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize my Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls?

You can add various toppings like sliced green onions, avocado, or pickled vegetables. Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for variation.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice will give a nuttier flavor and is a healthier option. Just remember it may take longer to cook.

What if I don’t have sriracha for the spicy mayo?

You can use other hot sauces or even chili paste as substitutes if you prefer different heat levels.

Are Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls healthy?

Absolutely! They are packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from broccoli, making them a balanced meal option.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for fresh meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

These Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are not only delicious but also easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or meal prep idea, this recipe fits perfectly into any weeknight routine. Try adding your favorite veggies or proteins for an extra twist!