Introduction
Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are a savory, sweet, and satisfying dish, featuring tender chicken glazed in a delicious sticky sauce and served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick dinner, these bowls are packed with flavor and customizable to your tastes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup (200 g) jasmine rice (or your preferred rice)
- 2 cups (480 ml) water or chicken broth
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish (optional):
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Sriracha or chili paste (for extra heat)
- Cilantro leaves
- Sliced cucumber or pickled vegetables
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water (or broth), and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the sticky glaze.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Pour the sticky sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to coat. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky.
Step 4: Assemble the Rice Bowls
- Divide the cooked rice between bowls.
- Spoon the sticky chicken on top of the rice.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro, if desired. Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili paste for some heat, and top with cucumber or pickled veggies for a refreshing crunch.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the sticky chicken rice bowls warm and enjoy!
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, or beef for variety.
- Add sautéed or steamed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a nutritious boost.
These Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are simple, satisfying, and bursting with delicious flavor!