Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

There is something incredibly comforting about a warm rice bowl, especially on a busy weeknight. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked rice makes for a meal that feels both hearty and nourishing. This sticky chicken rice bowl recipe is a perfect choice for beginner cooks because it is easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers a restaurant-quality dish with simple ingredients.

Plus, it is versatile—you can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or making a quick dinner for the family, this dish is a game-changer.

Ingredients and Preparation

Each component of this dish plays a key role in its overall flavor and texture. Below is a breakdown of the essential ingredients and their functions:

Bowl Base:

• Rice – The foundation of the dish. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
• Broccoli – Adds a nutritious, slightly crunchy element that complements the sticky chicken. Other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas work well too.
• Chicken – The protein source that absorbs all the delicious seasonings and sauce. If you prefer, you can swap it for tofu, shrimp, or even beef.
• Olive oil – Helps coat the chicken and allows the spices to stick properly.

Seasonings:

• Salt & Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
• Chili Powder & Smoked Paprika – Adds warmth and a hint of smokiness.
• Onion Powder & Oregano – Brings depth and a slightly herby taste to balance the dish.

Sticky Sauce:

• Soy Sauce – The salty, umami-rich base of the sauce.
• Honey – Provides a touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds a slight tang that brightens up the flavors.
• Garlic & Ginger – Classic aromatics that give the sauce its signature Asian-inspired taste.
• Sriracha – Introduces a mild heat, which can be adjusted based on your spice preference.
• Sesame Oil – Brings a nutty depth to the sauce.
• Arrowroot Powder (or Cornstarch) – Thickens the sauce, making it cling beautifully to the chicken.

Spicy Mayo:

• Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy texture that balances the heat.
• Sriracha – Adds an extra kick to the drizzle.
• Water – Thins out the mayo for easy drizzling.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Low-carb option: Substitute white rice with cauliflower rice.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Extra crunch: Top with cashews, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. While it heats, cook the rice according to the package instructions.

Step 2: Steam the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop until fork-tender. Set it aside.

Step 3: Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken with olive oil and the listed seasonings until evenly coated.

Step 4: Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

Step 5: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sticky sauce. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Step 6: In a separate bowl, mix the arrowroot powder with water to form a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the boiling sauce, stirring continuously. Let it cook for 4–5 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Assemble the bowls by layering cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and crispy air-fried chicken. Drizzle the sticky sauce over everything and toss to coat.

Step 8: Prepare the spicy mayo by whisking together mayo, sriracha, and water. Drizzle it over the bowls for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 9: Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or avocado for added texture and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to check if chicken is cooked: The safest way to check doneness is using a meat thermometer. Chicken is fully cooked at 165°F, but it can be removed from the air fryer at 160°F since it will continue cooking slightly from residual heat.
• What if the sauce is too thick? Add a small amount of water and whisk until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Meal prep tip: Store each component separately in airtight containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

This easy sheet pan dinner pairs well with:

• A fresh side salad – A simple cucumber or Asian slaw salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Miso soup or egg drop soup – A light, warming option to start the meal.
• Pickled vegetables – Adds a tangy contrast to the sweet and sticky flavors.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
• Reheating tip: If microwaving, sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice before reheating to keep it moist.

Join the Conversation

Have you tried this lemon herb chicken recipe yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Share your favorite ingredient swaps or toppings—we love hearing your creative takes on this quick and healthy meal. If you found this recipe helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it for later and share it with friends!

FAQ About Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

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