Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

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Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are the kind of comforting, flavor-packed meals that hit all the right notes—sweet, savory, tangy, and satisfying. With juicy, caramelized chicken glazed in a sticky soy garlic sauce and nestled on fluffy white rice, it’s a dish that looks like takeout but tastes homemade and even better.

This bowl is loaded with vibrant, fresh toppings like crunchy carrots, crisp cucumbers, lightly steamed broccoli, and scallions for that perfect bite. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a weeknight dinner in under 30 minutes, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are a perfect combination of ease and flavor. The chicken is marinated and cooked to a slightly crispy finish, soaking in that bold, sticky sauce. Each bowl is customizable, making it ideal for families or picky eaters. Add more veggies, spice it up, or swap in brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.

It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep since the components store well separately. You can double the batch and enjoy it all week long without losing any freshness or flavor.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the most flavorful and juicy option for this recipe, but chicken breasts work just as well if you prefer leaner meat. The key is marinating the chicken so it soaks up the rich flavor of the sauce before being seared or grilled to perfection. If you want to go meatless, tofu or tempeh are great alternatives too.

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Ingredients for the Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Every ingredient in this dish plays a role in balancing bold flavors and vibrant textures. Here are the essentials you’ll need:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful, they soak up the sticky glaze beautifully.
• Soy sauce – Adds deep umami and saltiness to the marinade and glaze.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the aroma and taste of the sauce.
• Honey – Gives the glaze its sweetness and sticky texture.
• Rice vinegar – Balances the sweet and savory elements with a gentle tang.
• Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce into a rich, glossy glaze.
• Cooked white rice – The perfect fluffy base for absorbing the sticky chicken sauce.
• Carrots – Shredded raw carrots add crunch and a pop of color.
• Cucumbers – Light, refreshing slices balance the savory chicken.
• Broccoli florets – Steamed or blanched for texture and added greens.
• Green onions – Sliced finely for a sharp, fresh garnish.
• Sesame seeds – Toasted lightly to add a nutty finish.

How To Make the Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, minced garlic, honey, and rice vinegar. Set aside a few tablespoons to use later as a finishing glaze.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, coat well, and let marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge).

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until fully cooked and browned on both sides. Once cooked, pour in the reserved glaze and cook for another 2-3 minutes until sticky and thickened.

Step 4: Steam the Broccoli

While the chicken cooks, lightly steam the broccoli florets until bright green and just tender. This keeps the texture crisp.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

In each bowl, start with a scoop of cooked rice. Top with sliced chicken, then arrange the carrots, cucumbers, broccoli, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Drizzle any extra sauce over the top for a glossy finish.

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How to Serve and Store Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

These bowls are best served warm, right after assembling, when the sticky glaze is hot and glossy. The mix of textures—crispy-edged chicken, tender veggies, and fluffy rice—makes every bite satisfying. This recipe easily feeds 4 people, making it great for families or small dinner gatherings.

For storage, keep each component separate in airtight containers. The chicken and rice can be reheated in the microwave or a skillet, while the veggies can be served cold or at room temperature. Everything stays fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge, which makes this a smart choice for weekly meal prep.

What to Serve With Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls?

Miso Soup

A light, warm bowl of miso soup complements the savory-sweet profile of the sticky chicken without overpowering it.

Edamame

Steamed edamame with sea salt is a healthy, protein-rich side that adds variety in texture.

Pickled Ginger or Kimchi

These tangy additions help cut through the richness of the sauce and refresh the palate.

Gyoza or Potstickers

Add a few crispy dumplings on the side for a restaurant-style meal at home.

Mango Salad

A light mango or papaya salad brings a fruity brightness that balances the boldness of the bowl.

Roasted Seaweed Snacks

Serve on the side or crumble on top for a salty, crispy texture.

Green Tea or Jasmine Tea

Finish the meal with a soothing cup of tea to aid digestion and round out the flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with brown rice or quinoa?
Absolutely! Brown rice or quinoa are great alternatives for added fiber and nutrition. Just make sure they’re fully cooked and fluffy before building your bowl.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. Double-check any store-bought ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

How do I make it spicier?
Add a teaspoon of sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes to the marinade or drizzle some spicy mayo on top when serving.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Grilling gives the chicken a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the sticky glaze. Just baste with sauce during the final minutes for the best flavor.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you switch up the veggies or add spice? Did you try it with tofu?
I love hearing how others make these bowls their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, faster, and tastier!

For more fresh, flavorful food ideas, follow me on Meals We Share by Sally on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are the ultimate blend of sweet, savory, and satisfying. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, healthy lunch prep, or a delicious way to use pantry staples, this bowl checks all the boxes. Try it once, and you’ll be coming back to it again and again.

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