Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and deliciousness, this Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe is just the ticket! This recipe has been a favorite in my household, especially on those busy weeknights when everyone is hungry and looking for a satisfying meal. The tender chicken coated in a sweet-spicy glaze, paired with crisp broccoli and fluffy rice, makes for a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family gatherings or even just a cozy dinner at home.

What I love most about these sticky chicken bowls is how adaptable they are. You can whip them up in no time and make them your own by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice levels. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can have this meal ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for any weeknight.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and spicy flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for a quick assembly when you’re ready to eat!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the protein to suit your taste.
• Deliciously Satisfying: Each bowl bursts with flavor, giving you that comforting feeling we all crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients makes cooking this Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful meal:

For the Rice and Broccoli

• 2 cups uncooked rice
• 2 small heads broccoli (chopped)

For the Chicken

• 3 large chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp oregano

For the Sticky Sauce

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp sriracha
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp arrowroot powder mixed with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry (sub cornstarch)

For the Spicy Mayo

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• 2 – 3 tbsp water

For Topping

• sesame seeds

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences or whatever you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a plant-based option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the grains: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a different twist.
• Adjust the heat: If you like things spicier, add more sriracha to the sticky sauce!

How to Make Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. This will be the hearty base of our bowls. Once it’s fluffy and ready, set it aside while you focus on the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

Chop your broccoli into small florets. You want them bite-sized so they cook quickly and complement the chicken nicely. Set these aside as well; we’ll steam or sauté them later.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts into strips. Season them generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and oregano. This seasoning blend elevates your chicken with layers of flavor!

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add in your seasoned chicken strips. Cook until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through—about 6-7 minutes. This step locks in moisture while creating a lovely crust.

Step 5: Cook the Broccoli

Now it’s time for your broccoli! You can steam or sauté it in the same pan as your chicken if there’s room. Cooking it until tender ensures that it retains its bright color and crunch.

Step 6: Make the Sticky Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together all sticky sauce ingredients—soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, ground ginger, and arrowroot slurry. Pour this magical mixture into your skillet with chicken and let it simmer until thickened. This glaze is what makes each bite irresistible!

Step 7: Prepare Spicy Mayo

In another small bowl, stir together mayo, sriracha, and water until smooth enough to drizzle over your bowls later on. It adds that extra punch of flavor we all love!

Step 8: Assemble Your Bowls

Now comes the fun part—assemble! Start with a base of fluffy rice topped with sticky chicken and tender broccoli. Drizzle generously with spicy mayo and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that delightful crunch.

And there you have it—a delicious Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe that’s sure to win hearts around your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips to make the process even smoother!

• Prep Ahead: Prepare your ingredients in advance by chopping the broccoli and slicing the chicken. This reduces cooking time and makes the whole process feel less hectic.

• Control the Heat: When cooking the chicken, use medium-high heat to get that perfect golden brown color without burning it. This ensures flavors develop beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.

• Mix it Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. Adding variety not only boosts nutrition but also keeps your meals exciting!

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to reduce the sriracha or chili powder. Customizing spice levels allows everyone at your table to enjoy this flavorful meal.

• Make Extra Sauce: Consider doubling the sauce ingredients if you love a saucier bowl! It’s perfect for drizzling over rice, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite.

How to Serve Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe

Presenting your Sticky Chicken Bowls can elevate the dining experience, making it visually appealing as well as delicious. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: Freshly sliced green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the sticky glaze beautifully.
• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro brings a refreshing herbal note that lightens up the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried seasonal vegetables add crunch and contrast, making them a fun accompaniment.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting balance to your meal with its umami flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Edamame Beans: Simple steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a nutritious and protein-packed side that pairs perfectly with your main dish.
• Asian Slaw: A zesty slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds crunch and freshness, complementing the sticky chicken wonderfully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Sticky Chicken Bowls will not only taste amazing but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken bowls to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the spicy mayo in a separate container for best results.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down to room temperature before freezing.
• Portion the chicken, rice, and broccoli into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best flavor, consume within one month.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken bowls in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl covered with a damp paper towel for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make this Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option. Just adjust cooking times according to your choice of protein.

What can I serve with Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe?

Feel free to pair these bowls with additional sides like edamame, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad for extra crunch and flavor!

How do I adjust the spice level in Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe?

You can reduce or omit sriracha in both the sauce and spicy mayo if you prefer less heat. Conversely, add more sriracha or red pepper flakes for extra spiciness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe as much as I do! It’s a delightful combination of flavors that come together beautifully. Whether it’s for dinner tonight or meal prep for the week ahead, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite. Happy cooking!