These sticky chicken rice bowls are sweet, savoury, and full of flavour. Tender chicken glazed in a sticky sauce is served over fluffy rice with fresh toppings, making it a delicious and balanced meal ready in just 30 minutes.
1lbbonelessskinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2tablespoonscornstarch
2tablespoonsoilvegetable or sesame
For the Sticky Sauce:
¼cupsoy sauce
3tablespoonshoney
2tablespoonsbrown sugar
2tablespoonsrice vinegar
2tablespoonswater
3clovesgarlicminced
1teaspoongrated fresh ginger
1teaspooncornstarch + 1 tablespoon waterslurry
For Serving:
2cupscooked white or brown rice
1cupshredded carrots
1cupsliced cucumber
2green onionssliced
Sesame seedsoptional
Fresh cilantrooptional
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Toss chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sticky Sauce:
In the same pan, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, water, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
Thicken the Sauce:
Add cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the sticky sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Assemble Bowls:
Divide cooked rice among bowls. Top with sticky chicken, shredded carrots, cucumber, and green onions. Garnish with sesame seeds or cilantro if desired.
Notes
Make Ahead: Chicken and sauce can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge for 2 days. Assemble bowls just before serving.Customising Flavours: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for spice. Swap honey with maple syrup for a twist.Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed broccoli, edamame, or pickled veggies for extra texture and nutrients.Allergy-Friendly Options: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.