Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

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When your dinner needs a boost of flavor but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are the answer. They combine tender bites of chicken glazed in a sweet-savory sticky sauce with fluffy white rice and crisp vegetables. Every spoonful is warm, balanced, and satisfying.

This dish delivers on the kind of umami comfort you find in your favorite takeout, but homemade with simple pantry staples. It comes together quickly enough for weeknights, yet it’s crowd-pleasing enough to serve for casual weekend gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are irresistibly good. The sauce clings to every bite of chicken like a glossy caramel glaze, and the base of jasmine or basmati rice soaks up all the extra goodness. It’s a wonderful fusion of textures: crispy on the edges, sticky at the center, and fresh with toppings like green onions or sesame seeds. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable with your favorite veggies or protein variations.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this recipe, boneless skinless chicken thighs are a top pick because they stay juicy and flavorful during cooking. However, if you prefer leaner cuts, boneless chicken breasts will also work. Just be cautious not to overcook them, as breasts can dry out more easily. If you’re short on time, precooked rotisserie chicken can be tossed in the sauce for an even quicker meal.

Ingredients for the Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

The ingredients in these rice bowls are pantry-friendly and chosen to deliver maximum flavor in a short amount of time.

• Chicken thighs
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Cornstarch
• Rice vinegar
• Sriracha or chili paste
• Sesame oil
• Cooked white rice
• Green onions
• Sesame seeds

Each ingredient plays a specific role, from the umami of soy sauce to the depth and sweetness of brown sugar, the sharpness of garlic and ginger, and the kick of sriracha. Cornstarch gives the sauce that glossy, thick finish that makes it cling beautifully to the chicken.

How To Make the Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sriracha, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and stir. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens and becomes glossy, coating the chicken well.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Scoop cooked white rice into serving bowls. Top with the sticky chicken, sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot.

How to Serve and Store Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are best served fresh, right after the chicken is glazed and still hot. The warmth helps the sauce seep into the rice, making it all the more delicious. This recipe serves about 4 people generously, especially if you include some veggies or sides.

To store leftovers, let everything cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls?

Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and color contrast.

Pickled Cucumbers

The tanginess of pickled cucumbers balances the richness of the chicken glaze.

Crispy Egg Rolls

Try pairing with our Crispy and Delicious Easy Chinese Egg Rolls Recipe for a full takeout-style meal.

Kimchi

For a bold and spicy side, kimchi brings fermented heat and texture.

Miso Soup

A warm bowl of miso soup is a gentle, comforting pairing.

Grilled Pineapple

The sweetness of grilled pineapple echoes the caramel notes in the sauce.

Sautéed Baby Bok Choy

Quick-cooked bok choy adds a fresh, green note that complements the sticky chicken.

Want More Rice Bowl Ideas?

If you enjoy these sticky chicken rice bowls, here are a few more hearty rice-based favorites to try:

• Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri for a tangy herbed twist.
• Easy Chicken Fried Rice when you’re craving comfort in a skillet.
• Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Rice for a tropical, sweet-savory combo.
• Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet for a colorful one-pan dinner.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the spice or keep it mild? Try any fun toppings?

I love seeing how you make these meals your own. Have questions? Drop them below so we can help each other out.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next go-to dish!

Conclusion

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls deliver on flavor, texture, and ease. Whether you’re meal-prepping or cooking last minute, this dish hits all the right notes. Keep it classic or give it your own twist—either way, it’s a winner for any night of the week.

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