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

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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.

Ingredients

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.

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!

Notes

  • 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.

Find it online: https://paularecipes.com/sticky-chicken-rice-bowls-recipe-a-flavor-packed-quick-meal-for-any-occasion/