Description
Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls: Create delicious, juicy chicken in a sweet-savory glaze over fluffy rice. Your go-to quick and comforting weeknight meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- Main Bowl Components:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 cups jasmine rice
- Sticky Glaze Essentials:
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Flavor Enhancers & Seasoning:
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- Finishing Touches:
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken & Rice:: First things first, get your rice going! Rinse that jasmine rice until the water runs clear – this is where I always forget, honestly, and then my rice is too starchy. While that’s bubbling away, pat your chicken thighs super dry. This step is crucial for getting a good sear later, and I learned that the hard way with some sad, soggy chicken once. Cut them into bite-sized pieces; aim for roughly 1-inch chunks. Don’t stress too much, a little unevenness adds character, right?
- Whisk the Sticky Glaze:: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and toasted sesame oil. Give it a good stir, really combine those flavors. This is the heart of your Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls, so make it sing! I like to taste it here, too – if it needs a little more tang, I’ll add a splash more vinegar. You do you!
- Sear the Chicken:: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat with a little neutral oil. Once it’s shimmering, add your chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. We’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown sear here, about 3-4 minutes per side. This is where you build some serious flavor for your Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls. Don’t fuss with it too much, let that crust develop!
- Create the Cornstarch Slurry:: While the chicken is searing, in a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with a couple tablespoons of cold water until it’s completely smooth. No lumps allowed, friend! This little magic potion is what’s going to transform your glaze from thin liquid to wonderfully sticky perfection. It’s a small step, but a game-changer for these Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls.
- Glaze the Chicken:: Once the chicken is nicely browned, pour your prepared glaze mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer, letting those aromas fill your kitchen – honestly, this is my favorite part! Then, slowly pour in your cornstarch slurry, whisking constantly. The sauce will thicken almost immediately, clinging to every piece of chicken. Keep stirring until it’s glossy and bubbly, about 1-2 minutes.
- Assemble Your Bowls:: Now for the grand finale! Spoon a generous amount of that fluffy jasmine rice into your bowls. Top it generously with the gloriously sticky, glistening chicken. Garnish with plenty of sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Take a moment to admire your handiwork. These Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are ready to be devoured!