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Introduction

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful meal, the Easy Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect choice. Combining tender, juicy chicken with a sticky, sweet sauce over a bed of fluffy rice, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in no time. The balance of savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors makes it irresistibly delicious, while the vibrant veggies add freshness and texture.

The magic of this recipe lies in the sauce—made with pantry staples like soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger—which creates the perfect glaze for the chicken. When the sauce is simmered down, it thickens into a sticky coating that clings to the chicken and enhances every bite. Paired with rice and optional toppings like green onions, sesame seeds, or a soft-boiled egg, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a casual family gathering.

The best part? It’s customizable. Add your favorite veggies, switch up the protein, or tweak the sauce to your preference. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious, sticky chicken rice bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The sticky sauce is a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and savory flavors that coat the chicken and rice beautifully.
Customizable: You can add any vegetables or protein you like, making this dish easily adaptable to your preferences.
One-Bowl Meal: Everything comes together in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze and the meal satisfying yet simple.
Kid-Friendly: The mild sweetness of the sauce makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice Bowl:

Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless and skinless)
Cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
Olive oil or vegetable oil
Salt and pepper

For the Sticky Sauce:

Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
Honey or maple syrup
Fresh garlic, minced
Fresh ginger, grated
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Sesame oil (optional for added flavor)
Cornstarch (for thickening)

Optional Toppings:

Green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds
Soft-boiled egg
Steamed broccoli or any vegetable of choice

Variations

Use Different Proteins: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using shrimp, tofu, or even beef for an equally delicious meal.
Add More Veggies: You can customize this bowl with any veggies you like—steamed broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas work wonderfully.
Make It Spicy: Add a little heat with red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce to the sticky glaze.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. You can use a rice cooker, stovetop, or even leftover rice for a faster meal.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts or thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sticky Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir to combine. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry, then add it to the skillet to thicken the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it becomes glossy and sticky.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Return the chicken to the pan and coat it with the sticky sauce, making sure the chicken is fully covered. Let it cook in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to further thicken and glaze the chicken.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Place a serving of rice in each bowl. Slice the chicken into strips and place it over the rice. Drizzle the sticky sauce over the chicken and rice, and top with any optional garnishes like green onions, sesame seeds, or a soft-boiled egg.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, be sure not to overcrowd the pan, as it can result in uneven cooking. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey. For a saltier kick, increase the soy sauce or add a dash of fish sauce.
Cook the Chicken Through: Make sure the chicken is cooked through, with no pink in the middle. If you’re using chicken breasts, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

How to Serve

Serve this Easy Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl as a complete meal on its own. You can add a side of crispy fried wontons, egg rolls, or a fresh salad to complement the dish. A drizzle of extra sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes will enhance the flavor for those who like a bit more spice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sticky chicken and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the rice and chicken separate to prevent the rice from becoming too soggy.

Freezing

This dish can also be frozen, though the rice may become slightly mushy when reheated. Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before freezing in separate containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave the leftovers for 1-2 minutes, or heat them in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the rice.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great option, though it will take a bit longer to cook. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free. Check that the other ingredients are also gluten-free, such as the sesame oil and cornstarch.

3. Can I add vegetables to this bowl?

Yes! Adding vegetables like steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots will enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

4. How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for extra heat.

5. Can I use frozen chicken?

Frozen chicken can be used, but it will need to be thawed before cooking. It’s best to cook the chicken from fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

6. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a different flavor profile.

7. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want the sauce thicker, mix a little more cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce until you reach your desired consistency.

8. Can I add a soft-boiled egg to the bowl?

Yes, adding a soft-boiled egg is a great topping that enhances both the flavor and texture of the dish.

9. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

10. Can I skip the rice and serve with something else?

Yes, you can serve this sticky chicken with quinoa, couscous, or even a leafy green salad for a lighter alternative.

Conclusion

The Easy Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl is a simple, quick, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights or meal prep. With its sweet and savory sticky sauce, tender chicken, and rice, this meal offers everything you need in one bowl. Customizable and versatile, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation, providing a satisfying and comforting meal everyone will love!