Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

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Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are the ultimate comfort food with a flavorful twist. Imagine juicy, caramelized chicken pieces drizzled in a sweet and savory sauce, served over fluffy jasmine rice, and topped with a creamy, nutty drizzle. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels like a takeout treat but is healthier and quicker to prepare at home.

This recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort, and the textures are irresistible—tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s a meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and customizable to your taste. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, these bowls are always a hit.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. However, if you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken breasts work just as well. You could even swap in tofu or shrimp for a protein variation.

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Ingredients for the Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: The star of the show—these get caramelized to perfection.
• Soy Sauce: For salty umami depth.
• Brown Sugar: Adds that sticky, glossy finish to the chicken.
• Garlic and Ginger: Essential for aromatic depth and flavor.
• Rice Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a tangy note.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and coat the chicken.
• Jasmine or Basmati Rice: Acts as the hearty base for soaking up all the flavors.
• Broccoli Florets: Adds freshness and a vibrant crunch.
• Peanut Sauce or Spicy Mayo: Optional but highly recommended for drizzling on top.
• Green Onions & Sesame Seeds: For garnish and an extra layer of flavor and texture.

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How To Make the Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Begin by trimming and cutting your chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and ginger. Mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl: soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. In a separate small bowl, mix a little cornstarch with water to create a slurry.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.

Step 3: Make It Sticky

Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and reduce the heat to medium. Stir and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the cornstarch slurry and continue to stir until the sauce becomes sticky and glossy.

Step 4: Steam the Broccoli

While the chicken is simmering, steam your broccoli florets until just tender. You can do this in the microwave with a splash of water or use a steamer basket on the stovetop.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

Prepare jasmine or basmati rice according to package instructions. Fluff it with a fork once it’s done.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

Scoop the rice into bowls, top with sticky chicken and broccoli. Drizzle with peanut sauce or spicy mayo. Finish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that final touch.

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How to Serve and Store Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

These rice bowls are best served immediately while the chicken is sticky and hot. Plate the components side by side or layered, depending on your visual preference. A drizzle of extra sauce right before serving adds an extra kick. If you love texture, sprinkle on extra sesame seeds or crushed peanuts.

For storing, separate the rice, chicken, and broccoli into airtight containers. This keeps everything fresh and prevents the rice from soaking up too much sauce. They keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the rice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or even lemon juice. The goal is to balance the sweetness with acidity.

Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely! Add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also use a spicy mayo drizzle on top.

Is this gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and double-check your other ingredients for hidden gluten.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just steam it until it’s tender. It won’t be as crisp as fresh broccoli but will still taste great.

What other veggies can I add?

Snap peas, shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even edamame make great additions to the bowl.

How can I meal prep this?

Divide cooked rice, chicken, and veggies into containers. Keep sauce separate if possible and add fresh toppings like green onions right before eating.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these sticky chicken rice bowls, here are some more crave-worthy meals to add to your weeknight dinner rotation:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine for a zesty twist on creamy pasta.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for an indulgent and comforting bowl of pasta bliss.
• One Skillet Sweet Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta if you’re in the mood for another sticky and bold-flavored meal.
• Garlic Chicken Lo Mein for a noodle-packed alternative to rice.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan if you’re craving baked, cheesy goodness.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you drizzle with spicy mayo or go classic with soy glaze? Add some heat or keep it mild?

I love hearing how others make these bowls their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other keep dinner interesting.

For more delicious and creative meal ideas, follow along on Pinterest @LifeWithNinaRecipes

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