Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines tender, air-fried chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce over a bed of fluffy rice and steamed broccoli. This dish delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner or meal prep.
The key to this recipe is the sticky sauce, which brings together the umami depth of soy sauce, the sweetness of honey, and the heat of sriracha. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of smoky and aromatic spices before being air-fried to crispy perfection. A drizzle of spicy mayo adds a creamy kick, while sesame seeds provide a final touch of texture and nuttiness.
Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to prepare. With simple cooking techniques like air-frying and steaming, you can have this meal ready in under an hour. Plus, it’s versatile—swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a delicious meal-prep option, these Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls will quickly become a household favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor – The combination of a sticky, umami-rich sauce with tender chicken and a spicy mayo drizzle makes every bite irresistible.
- Quick and Easy – With minimal prep and a short cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Air Fryer Convenience – Cooking the chicken in an air fryer ensures it’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside with minimal effort.
- Customizable – Swap out the vegetables, adjust the spice level, or use different protein sources to make this dish your own.
- Great for Meal Prep – These bowls store well, making them a fantastic option for make-ahead lunches or dinners.
Ingredients
- Rice
- Broccoli
- Chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Chili powder
- Smoked paprika
- Onion powder
- Oregano
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Rice vinegar
- Garlic
- Sriracha
- Sesame oil
- Ground ginger
- Arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
- Mayonnaise
- Sesame seeds
Variations
- Protein Swap – Use shrimp, tofu, or beef instead of chicken for a different twist.
- Grain Options – Try serving this dish over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or brown rice for a healthier alternative.
- Vegetable Additions – Include bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
- Mild Version – Reduce or omit the sriracha in both the sauce and spicy mayo for a less spicy dish.
- Different Sauce Base – Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-sodium option.
How to Make Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Prepare the rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Steam the broccoli on the stovetop or in the microwave until fork-tender. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and oregano.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Spread the seasoned chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Step 5: Make the Sticky Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, add soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, and ground ginger to a saucepan. Bring to a boil.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Mix arrowroot powder with water to create a slurry. Once the sauce is boiling, add the slurry and stir. Let it cook for 4-5 minutes until thickened.
Step 7: Assemble the Bowls
Layer the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and crispy chicken in serving bowls. Drizzle with the sticky sauce.
Step 8: Make the Spicy Mayo
Whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and water until smooth. Drizzle over the assembled bowls.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and serve immediately.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Cut the Chicken Evenly – This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from drying out.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer – Cook the chicken in batches if necessary for even crispiness.
- Adjust Sauce Thickness – If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer; if too thick, add a splash of water.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning – Modify the spice level or sweetness based on personal preference.
- Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger – Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor of the sticky sauce.
How to Serve
- Serve the bowls hot with extra sauce on the side.
- Garnish with additional sesame seeds, green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.
- Pair with a light side salad or miso soup for a complete meal.
- Add a soft-boiled egg on top for extra protein and richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover chicken, rice, and broccoli in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Keep the sticky sauce and spicy mayo in separate containers to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
- Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
- Avoid freezing the broccoli and rice, as they may become mushy when thawed.
Reheating
- Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
- Stir in a splash of water when reheating the sauce to maintain the right consistency.
- Drizzle the spicy mayo fresh after reheating rather than heating it with the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked or bake it at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well—just steam or sauté it before adding it to the bowls.
3. What can I use instead of arrowroot powder?
Cornstarch is a great substitute; use the same amount to thicken the sauce.
4. Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild to moderate spice level, but you can adjust the sriracha to your taste.
5. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great option for added fiber and nutrition.
6. Can I meal prep these bowls?
Yes, they store well and are perfect for meal prep. Keep the sauce and mayo separate until serving.
7. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
8. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, just ensure your mayo is dairy-free or use a vegan alternative.
9. What other toppings can I add?
Try adding crushed peanuts, green onions, or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.
10. How do I make the sauce less sweet?
Reduce the amount of honey or balance it with more rice vinegar for a tangier flavor.
Conclusion
Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors in one satisfying dish. With crispy air-fried chicken, a rich sticky sauce, and a creamy spicy mayo drizzle, this recipe is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you enjoy it fresh or prepare it ahead for meal prep, it’s sure to become a staple in your home. Try this dish today and customize it to fit your taste!
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