Last Updated on January 2, 2026 by recipeinspire
How to Make Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe in 8 Simple Steps
Are you craving a new twist on classic comfort food? Look no further! Master the Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe with our 8 simple steps. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines savory chicken with fluffy rice and delightful flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. A recent study shows that home-cooked meals can improve family bonding and satisfaction, making this recipe a must-try!
Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create a delicious and fulfilling Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (can substitute with breast)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Steamed broccoli or snap peas (optional)
With these ingredients, you can customize your dish, adding or omitting elements based on your taste and dietary preferences!
Timing
This scrumptious meal can be prepared in just 60 minutes—a solid 20% less time than the average family dinner recipe. Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Now that’s fast food you can feel good about!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium pot, combine the rice and water or broth with a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the leftover marinade) and cook in the skillet for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour the thickened glaze over it, allowing the chicken to caramelize in the sauce for 2-3 minutes. This will create that sticky goodness you’re craving!
Step 6: Fluff the Rice
When the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork, then serve it into bowls. This makes for a gorgeous base for your chicken.
Step 7: Assemble the Bowls
Slice the chicken thighs and arrange them generously over the rice. Drizzle any remaining glaze for that added flavor.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top the bowls with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and any optional veggies like broccoli or snap peas, for both nutrition and color. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves about 4 people and averages approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 15g
This dish packs a nutritional punch while still being satisfying and indulgent.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to reduce calories or adapt the dish for specific dietary needs? Here are some suggestions:
- Use leaner cuts of chicken, like breast, to lower the fat content.
- Substitute brown rice for a whole grain option that boosts fiber.
- For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, marinated and baked for texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal even more exciting, consider serving your Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls with:
- A side of steamed edamame for added protein.
- A light salad with Asian-inspired dressing to complement the flavors of the chicken.
- Sliced avocado for a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the sticky rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not marinating long enough: Allow the chicken to soak up flavors for optimal taste.
- Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on cooking times; use a thermometer to ensure juiciness.
- Rushing the cooking of rice: Follow the recommended simmer time for fluffy rice.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and rice separately—reheat in the microwave directly from frozen, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
Print
Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are a delicious and satisfying meal featuring tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sticky sauce, served over fluffy rice with fresh toppings. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water
- 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces and cook 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, ketchup, vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Pour sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
- Remove from heat.
- Serve sticky chicken over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Add steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for extra veggies. This recipe also works great with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: sticky chicken rice bowls, chicken rice bowl, easy chicken dinner, sweet and savory chicken
Conclusion
The Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe you’ve just learned is quick, tasty, and adaptable, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or even meal preps. Dive into these vibrant flavors, and share your experience with friends and family!
Ready to dive into dinner? Try this recipe, share your thoughts, or explore our other delicious posts for more meal inspirations!
FAQs
1. Can I serve this dish cold?
Absolutely! These bowls are great as a cold meal, especially for lunch!
2. Can I use other proteins?
Yes! Feel free to use shrimp, tofu, or beef as alternatives.
3. What can I do if I don’t have sesame oil?
Olive oil or peanut oil can be great substitutes, although they will slightly change the flavor profile.
Dive into this delicious adventure and enjoy your cooking journey with our Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe! Happy cooking!







