Description
Easy Sticky Chicken Bowls packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, featuring a savory and sweet sticky glaze that makes a quick, delicious meal perfect for busy days or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce and Marinade
- 3 tbsp natural soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey (natural)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp natural gelling agent
Vegetables
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup scallions, sliced
Base
- 2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice
Garnishes (Optional)
- Additional sliced scallions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro or Thai basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Marinade: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine natural soy sauce, honey (natural), apple cider vinegar, grated garlic, grated ginger, and a splash of sesame oil. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade to coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of sesame oil. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan without overcrowding to sear properly. Cook until the chicken is golden on the outside and fully cooked inside, about 5-7 minutes. Pour any leftover marinade into the pan and stir occasionally until it thickens and becomes shiny, using the natural gelling agent.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan or a separate sauté pan, add the sliced bell peppers and scallions. Stir-fry them briefly until they soften slightly but remain crisp and colorful to keep their texture and freshness.
- Assemble the Bowls: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it into serving bowls. Top the rice with the sticky chicken and sautéed vegetables. Drizzle any remaining sticky sauce over the top. Garnish with additional scallions, toasted sesame seeds, or fresh herbs for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- Allow the chicken to marinate well to maximize flavor.
- Cook chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding and get the best caramelization.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger instead of powders for better aroma and taste.
- Lightly toast sesame seeds before garnishing to add extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Let the cooked chicken rest a few minutes before serving for better texture and moisture retention.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: sticky chicken, chicken bowls, quick dinner, easy recipe, savory sweet glaze, meal prep, gluten free
