Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe: A Flavor-Packed, Quick Meal for Any Occasion

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are the perfect combination of hearty, nutritious, and irresistibly flavorful. This dish brings together juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, all tied together with a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze. Finished with a drizzle of spicy mayo and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, it’s a meal that delights both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a surefire hit.

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Why You’ll Love Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are the ultimate comfort food, striking the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The sticky sauce, made from a harmonious blend of soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and spices, coats the chicken beautifully, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. The air-fried chicken provides a slightly crispy texture, while steamed broccoli adds freshness and balance.

And let’s not forget the versatility—this dish can easily be tailored to your preferences. Want more spice? Add extra sriracha. Prefer a different vegetable? Swap out broccoli for bell peppers, green beans, or snap peas. These rice bowls are designed to adapt to your cravings.

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Ingredients

• Rice (2 cups uncooked): The foundation of the dish, providing a neutral, fluffy base to soak up the sticky sauce.
• Broccoli (2 small heads, chopped): Adds a pop of color, nutrition, and a tender-crisp texture.
• Chicken (3 large breasts): The star protein, cut into bite-sized pieces for maximum flavor and ease of eating.

Spices and Seasonings

• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Coats the chicken, ensuring it cooks evenly in the air fryer.
• Salt and pepper (1 tsp and ½ tsp): Essential for seasoning the chicken.
• Chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano (1 tsp each): Creates a flavorful and slightly smoky spice blend.

Sticky Sauce

• Soy sauce (½ cup): The savory base of the sauce.
• Honey (½ cup): Adds natural sweetness to balance the umami flavors.
• Rice vinegar (¼ cup): Introduces a tangy note for depth.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): For aromatic richness.
• Sriracha (2 tbsp): Adds a spicy kick.
• Sesame oil (2 tsp): Infuses a nutty undertone.
• Ground ginger (1 tsp): Complements the sweet and savory notes.
• Arrowroot powder slurry (2 tsp arrowroot + 2 tbsp water): Thickens the sauce to a sticky consistency. Cornstarch can be substituted if needed.

Spicy Mayo

• Mayonnaise (½ cup): Creamy and cooling, balancing the dish’s bold flavors.
• Sriracha (1 tbsp): Gives the mayo a zesty heat.
• Water (2–3 tbsp): Adjusts the consistency for easy drizzling.

Toppings

• Sesame seeds: Add crunch and a toasty flavor to the final dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice

Cook 2 cups of rice according to the package instructions. Fluffy, perfectly cooked rice serves as the base for this dish, soaking up all the sticky sauce for a delightful bite. Once cooked, set aside and keep warm.

2. Steam the Broccoli

Steam 2 small heads of chopped broccoli until fork-tender. This can be done in the microwave or on the stovetop. The broccoli’s mild flavor and bright green color balance the dish’s richness.

3. Season and Air Fry the Chicken

Cut 3 large chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and the spice blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and oregano.

Lay the seasoned chicken pieces flat in an air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The air fryer method ensures the chicken remains tender while developing a slightly crisp exterior.

4. Make the Sticky Sauce

While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine:

• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons sriracha
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, add the arrowroot slurry (2 teaspoons arrowroot mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the sauce. Let it boil for 4-5 minutes until the sauce reaches a sticky, glossy consistency.

5. Assemble the Bowls

Layer the cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl. Top with steamed broccoli, air-fried chicken, and a generous drizzle of the sticky sauce.

6. Prepare the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayo, 1 tablespoon sriracha, and 2–3 tablespoons of water until smooth. Drizzle this over the bowls for an extra layer of creamy heat.

7. Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle sesame seeds over each bowl for texture and garnish with extra sriracha if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Flavor, Texture, and Aroma: A Feast for the Senses

• Flavor: The chicken’s savory, smoky seasoning pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy sticky sauce. The spicy mayo adds a subtle heat that ties the dish together.
• Texture: Each bite is a delightful mix of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, with a touch of crunch from the sesame seeds.
• Aroma: The dish is bursting with the rich, umami scents of soy sauce and sesame oil, complemented by the warm spices and a hint of garlic.

Tips for Success

• Rice Variations: Use jasmine rice for a fragrant base or substitute brown rice for added nutrition. Cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb alternative.
• Protein Options: Swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, or beef for a different twist.
• Vegetable Swaps: Try adding carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers for variety.
• Customizing Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of sriracha to control the spice.

Serving and Storage

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls with a side of cucumber salad or spring rolls for a complete meal. Add extra sriracha or soy sauce for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce’s texture.

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and ease. With their quick preparation and endless customization options, they’re a go-to dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or preparing meals for the week, these rice bowls are guaranteed to hit the spot. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!