Sticky chicken bowls are the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. If you’re looking for a dish that can bring excitement to your dinner table, you’ve found it! In this article, we will delve into the reasons why this recipe stands out, break down the ingredients you need, and guide you through the step-by-step process of bringing this delightful meal to life.
Why We Love This Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe
What makes sticky chicken bowls a favorite in homes is the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The tender chicken coated in a thick, sticky sauce is elevated by vibrant vegetables like broccoli. You get a balance of protein, carbs, and veggies in every bite! It’s a fantastic way to nourish your body while also pleasing your taste buds. Plus, this recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings or sides. On busy weeknights or for gathering with family and friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients about Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe
To recreate this mouthwatering meal, gather the following ingredients. The list includes everything you need to make sticky chicken bowls that are not only flavorful but also hearty and satisfying.
- 2 cups uncooked rice
- 2 small heads broccoli (chopped)
- 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
- 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 (you can substitute cornstarch)
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 2 – 3 tbsp water
- Sesame seeds for topping
How to Make Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe Directions
Creating sticky chicken bowls is a fun and straightforward process. Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. This will usually involve rinsing the rice and boiling it in water until fluffy and tender. Set the rice aside once it’s done.
Next, chop the broccoli into small florets and set them aside as well. This fresh veggie will add color and nutrients to your bowls!
Now, take your chicken breasts and slice them into strips. To ensure a flavor-packed dish, season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and oregano. Each seasoning adds its special touch, enhancing the overall profile of your meal.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken strips to the pan. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is thoroughly cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken strips.
While the chicken is cooking, steam or sauté your broccoli in the skillet or in a separate pan until it’s tender but still bright green. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes, ensuring the broccoli retains its crunch.
Now it’s time to elevate your chicken with a sticky sauce! In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Pour this sticky sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening beautifully, coating the chicken perfectly.
While the chicken simmers, prepare a spicy mayo as a creamy topping. In another bowl, mix the mayo, sriracha, and a little water. The result should be a pourable sauce that packs a spicy kick!
Finally, to assemble your sticky chicken bowls, serve a generous scoop of rice topped with the saucy chicken and broccoli. Drizzle the spicy mayo over everything and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. You have now created a delightful meal!
How to Serve Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe
Serving sticky chicken bowls is as enjoyable as making them! Begin by placing a generous serving of rice in a bowl as the base. The fluffy rice acts as a lovely canvas for the vibrant toppings. Next, add a portion of the sticky chicken and broccoli mixture on top.
When it comes to sauce, the spicy mayo is essential. Drizzle it over the chicken and veggies for a creamy, zesty finish. If you like crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds liberally on top. This adds a lovely texture and a nutty flavor.
For an extra touch, consider adding lime wedges or fresh herbs like cilantro as a garnish. These can enhance the flavors and add a pop of color to your dish!
Enjoy your sticky chicken bowls warm, and prepare for some culinary applause from your family and friends.
Expert Tips: Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe
- Marinate for Flavor: If you have the time, try marinating your chicken with the sauce ingredients for at least 30 minutes. This gives the chicken a deeper flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger truly elevate the taste of your sauce, so avoid substituting dried garlic or ginger if you can help it.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies, such as bell peppers or snap peas, for added color and nutritional benefits.
- Brown the Chicken: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This ensures that it gets a nice golden brown crust instead of steaming.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, increase the sriracha in both the sauce and the spicy mayo.
- Make it Gluten-Free: If you have dietary restrictions, substitute tamari for soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
These tips can help you create a sticky chicken bowl that’s perfect for your taste and dietary needs.
How to Store Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe
If you happen to have leftovers, storing your sticky chicken bowls is easy. Allow the meal to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents moisture build-up. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the chicken and broccoli in a skillet on medium heat. Adding a splash of water can help prevent it from drying out as it warms. Serve with freshly cooked rice to maintain the dish’s quality.
If you want to prepare the ingredients in advance, you can chop the veggies and marinate the chicken a day before you plan to cook. This will save you time on busy weeknights!
Variations of Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe
While the sticky chicken bowls recipe is a winner on its own, consider trying these variations to mix things up.
- Curry Flavor: Add curry powder to the chicken marinade for a flavorful twist. The sweetness of the honey pairs beautifully with curry spices.
- Add Nuts: Incorporate some chopped peanuts or cashews as a crunchy topping for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy Tofu Option: For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu. Press and cube the tofu, then marinate and cook as you would with the chicken.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces. Teriyaki sauce can give a new flavor profile while maintaining that essential sticky texture.
- Grain Options: Although rice is a traditional base, you can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative.
- Extra Veggies: Spinach, carrots, and snap peas are excellent additions as they boost the nutritional value and flavor.
Each variation can bring new excitement to your sticky chicken bowls, allowing you to cater to your own taste and dietary preferences.
FAQ about Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe
What can I serve with sticky chicken bowls?
Sticky chicken bowls are great on their own but also pair well with a side salad or egg rolls for an extra crunch.
Can this sticky chicken bowls recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and broccoli ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Cook the rice fresh when you’re ready to assemble your bowls.
How long will the leftovers last?
You can expect your sticky chicken bowls to last in the refrigerator for up to three days if stored properly in an airtight container.
How can I make sticky chicken bowls spicy?
To ramp up the spice level, increase the amount of sriracha or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
If using frozen chicken, make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Sticky Chicken Bowls
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups Uncooked Rice
- 2 small heads Broccoli Chopped
- 3 large Chicken Breasts
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- 0.5 cup Soy Sauce
- 0.5 cup Honey
- 0.25 cup Rice Vinegar
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha
- 2 teaspoons Sesame Oil
- 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger
- 2 teaspoons Arrowroot Powder Mixed with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry (or substitute with cornstarch)
- 0.5 cup Mayo
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha
- 2-3 tablespoons Water For thinning the mayo
- Sesame Seeds for topping Optional
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- Chop the broccoli into small florets and set aside.
- Slice the chicken breasts into strips and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and oregano.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Steam or sauté broccoli until tender but still bright green (about 3-4 minutes).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, and ground ginger.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
- Prepare a spicy mayo by mixing mayo, sriracha, and water until pourable.
- Assemble the sticky chicken bowls by serving rice topped with chicken, broccoli, and drizzling with spicy mayo. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
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