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STICKY CHICKEN RICE BOWLS

Sana Umer
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.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Fusion
Servings 4 Serves
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons oil vegetable or sesame

For the Sticky Sauce:

  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water slurry

For Serving:

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup sliced cucumber
  • 2 green onions sliced
  • Sesame seeds optional
  • Fresh cilantro optional

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.
Keyword Chicken Rice Bowl, easy rice bowls, sticky chicken, sweet and savoury chicken