As I stood in the kitchen, a delightful aroma wafted in, turning my evening into a cozy culinary adventure. It was time for my go-to comfort food: Sticky Chicken Bowls with Creamy Spicy Mayo. These bowls blend tender chicken strips glazed in a rich, sticky sauce with vibrant broccoli and fluffy rice, creating a colorful and satisfying weeknight meal. What I love most is how easily customizable they are—whether you want to amp up the heat with extra sriracha or add a burst of freshness with pickled veggies, the options are endless. Plus, they come together in a flash, making dinner a breeze after a hectic day. Ready to whip up something that feels like a warm hug? Let’s dive into these delicious Sticky Chicken Bowls!
Why are Sticky Chicken Bowls a must-try?
Versatility: These bowls are a blank canvas, inviting you to get creative! Add your favorite ingredients like pickled vegetables or extra sriracha for a personalized touch.
Quick to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: They’re delicious and comforting, making them a hit with family and friends alike. Serve them family-style for an interactive dining experience!
Adaptable: Want a gluten-free option? Swap soy sauce for tamari! You can customize this dish to fit any dietary preference effortlessly.
Deliciously Flavorful: Each bite is a burst of savory sweetness, enhanced by the creamy spicy mayo that takes it over the top! If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love these Crockpot Buffalo Chicken bowls or Greek Chicken Lemon for more comforting meal ideas!
Sticky Chicken Bowls Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up a delicious meal!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Lean protein for a satisfying meal; can use boneless thighs for a crispier texture.
- Olive Oil – Ideal for searing chicken, ensuring an even cook.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- Chili Powder – Adds warmth; adjust quantity to suit your heat preference.
- Smoked Paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness that complements the dish’s sweetness.
- Onion Powder – Enhances the savory profile, creating depth.
- Oregano – Adds herbaceous warmth to every bite.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – Provides a salty, umami backbone to the sticky sauce; choose gluten-free tamari if needed.
- Honey – The key ingredient making the sauce sticky and sweet; can reduce for a less sweet flavor.
- Rice Vinegar – Brightens the sauce for a lighter finish.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for an aromatic punch.
- Sriracha – Adds heat; tailor it to your spice level.
- Sesame Oil – Introduces a nutty depth to the flavor.
- Ground Ginger – Complements the other spices with warming notes.
- Arrowroot Powder (mixed with water) – Thickens the sauce without cloudiness; cornstarch can be used as a substitute.
For the Creamy Spicy Mayo
- Mayonnaise – The base for creamy spicy mayo, adding richness.
For Serving
- Rice – Jasmine or medium-grain recommended for a fluffy texture.
- Broccoli – Adds color and crunch; frozen can work after thawing.
- Sesame Seeds – For topping, adding a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Get ready to enjoy delicious Sticky Chicken Bowls that not only satisfy your cravings but are also easy to customize!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky Chicken Bowls
Step 1: Cook Rice
Start by cooking your jasmine or medium-grain rice according to the package instructions, which usually takes around 15-20 minutes. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then bring it to a boil in a pot with the appropriate water amount. Once it’s boiling, reduce to low heat, cover, and let it simmer until fluffy.
Step 2: Prepare Broccoli
While the rice is cooking, chop your broccoli into small florets. Set a pot of water to boil for steaming, or, if you prefer a quicker method, grab a skillet. Have your broccoli ready to either steam for about 5-7 minutes until vibrant and tender or sauté in a little olive oil for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Step 3: Season Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and season generously with salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and oregano. Make sure each piece is well-coated to enhance the flavors in your Sticky Chicken Bowls. Allow the chicken to rest while you heat the skillet.
Step 4: Sear Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, approximately 2-3 minutes. Add the seasoned chicken strips in a single layer, cooking for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy, tender chicken strips.
Step 5: Cook Broccoli
If you chose to sauté the broccoli, add it to the skillet after the chicken is cooked. Toss it with the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors. Alternatively, bring the steamed broccoli to the skillet and gently stir to incorporate with the chicken, allowing it to warm through.
Step 6: Make Sticky Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, ground ginger, and arrowroot powder mixed with water. Once well combined, pour this sticky sauce over the cooked chicken and broccoli in the skillet. Reduce heat and simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken beautifully.
Step 7: Prepare Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with sriracha and a splash of water to achieve a drizzling consistency. Adjust the sriracha to your heat preference for the creamy spicy mayo. This luscious condiment adds a delightful kick to your Sticky Chicken Bowls.
Step 8: Assemble Bowls
Now, it’s time to create your Sticky Chicken Bowls! Start with a generous layer of fluffy rice in each bowl, then top with the sticky chicken and broccoli mixture. Drizzle the spicy mayo generously over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds for that perfect crunch and visual flair.
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Chicken Bowls
Fridge: Store leftover Sticky Chicken Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled bowls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Sticky Sauce Storage: Keep the sticky sauce separated in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before using if desired.
Meal Prep: Consider portioning individual servings for quick meals throughout the week, perfect for busy days!
Expert Tips for Sticky Chicken Bowls
Simple Substitution: Use boneless thighs for a juicier texture, or swap out rice for cauliflower rice to keep it lower carb!
Watch the Sticky Sauce: Lower the heat when adding the sauce to prevent burning the honey; too high heat can lead to a bitter taste.
Stay Flexible: Don’t hesitate to add more chilies or sriracha if you like it spicier; the beauty of these Sticky Chicken Bowls is in their adaptability.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare Sticky sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water for quick meals.
Crispy Chicken Bonus: For a crispy chicken experience, try using an air fryer instead of searing in a skillet!
Broccoli Tips: If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it properly before adding to the skillet to avoid excess water.
What to Serve with Sticky Chicken Bowls
Enjoying a plate of Sticky Chicken Bowls sets the stage for a delightful dining experience, where vibrant flavors and comforting textures are just the beginning.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing, the fluffy jasmine rice acts as a canvas for the sticky sauce, absorbing all the deliciousness!
- Sesame Broccoli Salad: Fresh, crunchy broccoli lightly dressed with sesame oil enhances the meal’s greens while keeping with the Asian-inspired theme.
- Crispy Tempura Vegetables: The lightness and crunch of tempura vegetables add a contrasting texture, making every bite exciting.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory elements of the chicken bowls, creating a harmonious balance.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a soothing backdrop, rich in umami flavors that contrast nicely with the dish’s sweetness.
- Pickled Cucumber Salad: The tang of pickled cucumbers adds a refreshing zing, cutting through the richness of the creamy spicy mayo and sticky chicken.
- Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea refreshes the palate between bites, helping to appreciate the complex flavors of the sticky bowl.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, the tropical flavors of mango sticky rice can be the perfect dessert, linking back to the inspiration of the meal.
Sticky Chicken Bowls Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful bowls! Each variation can transform your Sticky Chicken Bowls into something new and exciting.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based option to keep that delicious creamy touch without dairy.
- Heat It Up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sticky sauce for an extra kick that spice lovers will adore.
- Add-ons: Top your bowls with crunchy pickled vegetables or fresh cilantro to brighten the flavors and add texture. The tang from the pickles adds a delightful contrast to the sweet sauce!
- Texture Twist: For a crispy enhancement, consider adding air-fried chickpeas for an extra crunch. Their nutty flavor beautifully complements the other ingredients.
- Rice Alternatives: Trade the white rice for quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a nutritious twist that adds different textures and health benefits.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap out the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, more Japanese-inspired flavor profile. A delightful addition of green onions as a topping can also enhance this variation!
- Zesty Refresh: Incorporate orange zest and a splash of lime juice into the sticky sauce for a refreshing citrus twist that truly elevates the dish. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a lighter version!
- Protein Swap: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken! Each brings its unique flavor and texture, ensuring you savor something uniquely different. For instance, tofu absorbs the sauce beautifully, becoming delightfully chewy.
With these variations, your Sticky Chicken Bowls can be as dynamic as your taste buds desire. If you love flavor-packed meals, check out these Garlic Chicken Fried rice bowls or dive into comforting Crockpot Balsamic Chicken for new meal inspirations! Enjoy exploring these delightful adaptations!
Make Ahead Options
These Sticky Chicken Bowls are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy evenings! You can prepare the sticky sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor. Additionally, cook and cool the rice a day prior; simply refrigerate and reheat while the chicken cooks. When you’re ready to serve, heat the seared chicken and broccoli, pour on the pre-made sauce, and let them simmer together for about 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors. Finished with a drizzle of creamy spicy mayo, your dinner will be just as delicious as if made fresh!
Sticky Chicken Bowls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for Sticky Chicken Bowls?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using chicken breasts for their lean protein content, which keeps the dish satisfying without being heavy. If you prefer a juicier texture, feel free to substitute with boneless thighs. Just remember, thighs will yield a crispier bite!
How should I store leftover Sticky Chicken Bowls?
Very good question! Store your leftover Sticky Chicken Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them on the stovetop until heated through, ensuring the chicken remains tender.
Can I freeze Sticky Chicken Bowls?
Absolutely! You can freeze assembled bowls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the fridge and then gently heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This way, you won’t lose any flavor or texture!
What if the sticky sauce is too thick when cooking?
Great question! If you find your sticky sauce thickens too much during cooking, just add a splash of water to loosen it. Keep the heat low and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. This will make sure every bite remains deliciously coated!
Are Sticky Chicken Bowls suitable for gluten-free diets?
Definitely! You can easily make Sticky Chicken Bowls gluten-friendly by swapping regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari. Other than that, all the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a comforting option for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I make my Sticky Chicken Bowls spicier?
Very easily! If you’re looking to amp up the heat, simply add more sriracha to the sticky sauce or serve extra on the side. Another option is to mix in some chili flakes or fresh chopped chili peppers into the dish. The more the merrier when it comes to spice!
Savory Sticky Chicken Bowls for Your Ultimate Comfort Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook rice according to package instructions, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare broccoli by chopping into florets and steaming or sautéing until tender.
- Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and oregano.
- Sear chicken in a skillet with olive oil for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.
- Incorporate broccoli with chicken in the skillet for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Whisk together sauce ingredients and pour over chicken and broccoli, simmer until thickened.
- Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and water in a bowl for spicy mayo.
- Assemble bowls with rice, chicken, broccoli, and drizzle with spicy mayo, topping with sesame seeds.
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