Sticky Chicken Bowls

Sticky Chicken Bowls bring together tender chicken glazed in a sweet and spicy sauce paired with crisp broccoli and fluffy rice for a meal that hits all the right notes. This straightforward recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, combining bold flavors with wholesome ingredients for a satisfying dinner everyone will love.

I first discovered this recipe when I needed something quick and filling on a hectic evening. Now it’s a staple in my rotation with my family asking for it regularly because of the addictive sticky chicken and creamy spicy mayo topping.

Gather Your Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked rice: This provides the fluffy base jasmine or basmati rice works beautifully for aroma and texture
• 2 small heads broccoli chopped: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and nutrients pick firm, dark green florets
• 3 large chicken breasts: Lean protein that cooks quickly aim for even-sized pieces for uniform cooking
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing chicken and broccoli adding richness and helping caramelize flavors
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all ingredients
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds mild heat balancing the sweetness in the sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings subtle warmth and complexity
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth Spanish smoked paprika will give the best results
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides an umami boost without the texture of fresh onion
• 1 teaspoon oregano: A touch of earthiness that enhances the seasoning mix
• Sticky Sauce
• 1/2 cup soy sauce: Offers salty umami base low sodium is fine but adjust salt accordingly
• 1/2 cup honey: Gives natural sweetness that caramelizes into sticky glaze
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness
• 3 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic for that punchy aromatic foundation
• 2 tablespoons sriracha: Adds heat and a tangy kick adjust amount to taste
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil: Adds a nutty richness completing the Asian-inspired profile
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Provides warmth and a hint of spice
• 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder mixed with 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry: Helps thicken the sauce without cloudiness arrowroot works better than cornstarch in this recipe
• Spicy Mayo
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates creamy texture and richness
• 1 tablespoon sriracha: Brings heat and red color
• 2 to 3 tablespoons water: Thins the mayo to drizzle consistency
• Sesame seeds for topping: Adds crunch and visual appeal

How to Make It

Cook the rice:

Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside to keep warm and fluffy.

Prepare broccoli:

Chop broccoli into small florets ensuring they cook evenly and retain some crispness.

Season chicken:

Slice chicken breasts into strips then season thoroughly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and oregano for a well-rounded flavor base.

Cook chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat then add the chicken strips. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through about 6 to 8 minutes depending on thickness. This step locks in moisture and creates delicious crust.

Cook broccoli:

Steam or sauté broccoli either in the same pan after chicken is done or separately until just tender but still crisp, about 4 to 5 minutes preventing it from becoming mushy.

Make sticky sauce:

Whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, ground ginger, and arrowroot slurry in a bowl until smooth. Pour the mixture into the skillet with cooked chicken and simmer over medium heat stirring frequently. Cook until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken in about 3 to 5 minutes.

Prepare spicy mayo:

Mix spicy mayo by stirring together mayonnaise, sriracha, and water until pourable but not runny. Adjust water to reach desired consistency for drizzling.

Assemble bowls:

Assemble bowls starting with a generous scoop of rice on the bottom, add chicken coated in sticky sauce followed by broccoli. Drizzle spicy mayo on top and garnish with sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.

This recipe showcases my love for simple homemade sauces that transform basic ingredients into something special. I fondly remember the first time I shared these bowls with friends who immediately asked for the recipe. The balance of sticky sweetness and spicy mayo is what keeps everyone coming back for more.

Flavor Boosters

Storage tips Store any leftovers separately in airtight containers. Keep rice, broccoli, and chicken apart to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave stirring frequently to warm sauce without drying chicken. Best consumed within 3 days for freshness and taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber salad to cut through richness. Garnish with additional fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for brightness. Add a fried egg on top for extra protein and richness.

Creative Twists

Use fresh seasonal vegetables in place of broccoli such as snap peas or green beans for variation. Add sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and crunch in warmer months. Swap honey for a seasonal fruit syrup in winter to add holiday flavors.

This recipe has become a favorite for my family gatherings and potlucks. Many friends told me it improved their confidence cooking Asian inspired dishes at home.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ How do I make the chicken tender and flavorful?

Slice chicken breasts into strips and season well with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and oregano before cooking. This ensures tender, flavorful pieces.

→ What gives the sauce its sticky texture?

Arrowroot powder mixed with water creates a slurry that thickens the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and spices mixture into a glossy, sticky glaze.

→ Can I steam or sauté the broccoli?

Both methods work well. Steaming preserves crispness and nutrients, while sautéing adds a slight caramelized flavor.

→ What does the spicy mayo add to the bowls?

Spicy mayo, made with mayo, sriracha, and water, provides a creamy, mildly spicy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.

→ Is it possible to substitute rice in this dish?

Yes, alternatives like quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used for different textures or dietary preferences.