Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s packed with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of tangy-sweet heat, the Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe is here to satisfy every bite. This dish brings tender, spiced chicken glazed with a glossy sticky sauce, steamed broccoli, and fluffy rice together into one irresistible bowl that’s perfect for weeknights or sharing with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a beautiful example of how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients can come together to make something truly special. Each component brings something unique – the tender chicken carries bold spices, the sticky sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the fresh broccoli adds a wholesome crunch.

• 2 cups uncooked rice: Provides a fluffy, neutral base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
• 2 small heads broccoli, chopped: Adds vibrant green color and fresh texture, a great veggie boost.
• 3 large chicken breasts: The star protein that’s lean and tender when cooked just right.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chicken to a golden brown, enhancing flavor and juiciness.
• Spices (salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano): The perfect blend to give the chicken a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
• Sticky sauce ingredients (soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, ground ginger, arrowroot powder slurry): These create that irresistibly glossy and mouthwatering coating for the chicken.
• Spicy mayo (mayo, sriracha, water): A creamy, spicy drizzle for a cool contrast and extra pop of flavor.
• Sesame seeds: For the final sprinkle, adding nuttiness and a little crunch.

Variations

The great thing about this Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe is how easy it is to tweak and personalize based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Don’t be shy about making it your own!

• Swap the Protein: Try tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist, simply marinate and cook similarly for a delicious alternative.
• Add Different Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots for extra color and crunch.
• Adjust the Heat: Increase or decrease sriracha in both the sticky sauce and spicy mayo to suit your spice tolerance.
• Use Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb version, swap the white rice for riced cauliflower or quinoa.

How to Make Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by cooking your rice following the package directions until it’s perfectly fluffy. Meanwhile, chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, making sure they’re even so they cook uniformly. Setting these aside at this stage keeps your workflow smooth and organized.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into strips and generously season them with salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken strips, cooking them until they’re golden and cooked through. This seasoning blend creates a smoky, spiced base that becomes the heart of the bowl.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

In the same skillet (or a separate one if you prefer), steam or sauté the broccoli until it’s tender but still has a nice bite. This keeps it bright green and adds a fresh contrast to the rich chicken.

Step 4: Make and Glaze with Sticky Sauce

Whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, ground ginger, and your arrowroot slurry to create that luscious sticky sauce. Pour it into the skillet with the chicken and let it simmer gently. As it thickens, it clings beautifully to each chicken strip, delivering that crave-worthy glossy finish.

Step 5: Prepare Spicy Mayo

Mix mayo, sriracha, and water until you get a smooth, pourable spicy mayo sauce. This creamy drizzle balances the sticky heat with a mellow, rich texture that ties the whole bowl together wonderfully.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls

Layer your bowls starting with a generous bed of rice, then add the sticky chicken strips followed by vibrant broccoli. Finish off by drizzling the spicy mayo on top and sprinkling sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture!

How to Serve Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes take this Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe from great to unforgettable. Fresh chopped scallions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or even a handful of chopped cilantro add layers of aroma and texture. A wedge of lime on the side brightens up the entire bowl with a zesty punch.

Side Dishes

This bowl is pretty self-sufficient but pairs wonderfully with light sides like a simple cucumber salad, edamame pods, or steamed dumplings. A crisp Asian slaw also complements the sticky and spicy notes nicely, elevating your meal to restaurant-quality at home.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve these Sticky Chicken Bowls in vibrant ceramic bowls or bamboo baskets lined with lettuce leaves. Add edible flowers or sliced radishes for pops of color. You can even serve all components separately for guests to build their own bowls, making it a playful and interactive dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from the Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store rice, chicken with sauce, and broccoli together or separately to maintain texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sticky sauce combined, but it’s best to freeze the rice and broccoli separately to keep their texture intact. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 1 to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth helps keep everything moist and saucy, bringing back that fresh, sticky goodness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a meal that’s both packed with flavor and easy enough to whip up any night of the week. This Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe is exactly that – a deliciously sticky, savory-sweet bowl guaranteed to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Give it a go, and watch how quickly it disappears from the table!

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