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A close-up shot of a bowl filled with Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls featuring glazed chicken pieces served over fluffy white rice with a garnish of green onions and sesame seeds.

Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

This 15-minute recipe delivers a perfect balance of caramelized, savory chicken served over fluffy jasmine rice. It is the ultimate quick weeknight solution that satisfies takeout cravings with high-quality, fresh ingredients.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 3 cups water for rice
  • 1 tbsp avocado or vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds optional for garnish
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced optional for garnish
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional for heat

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Rice cooker or medium saucepan with lid
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to your preferred method (rice cooker or stovetop) and keep warm.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, toasted sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes until well combined.
  3. Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Allow the chicken to sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust.
  5. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  6. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Let it bubble and simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens into a glossy, sticky glaze that coats the chicken.
  7. Divide the cooked jasmine rice into bowls, top with the sticky chicken, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

To ensure the best texture, avoid stirring the chicken too early during the initial sear to allow for a crispy exterior. If the sauce becomes too thick or begins to burn, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to thin it out. You can easily customize this by stir-frying broccoli or bell peppers alongside the chicken for added nutrition.