Delicious Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls with glazed chicken and vegetables

Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls Fast and Easy

14 janvier 2026 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction
These Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls are built for busy weeknights when you want big flavor with minimal fuss. The chicken marinates quickly while you prep the veggies and rice, so hands-on time stays short. If you like speedy Asian-style dinners, try our 20-minute Mongolian chicken for another fast option. This bowl is forgiving, fast to stir and finish, and perfect for feeding a hungry household.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe uses a simple, bold sauce that doubles as both marinade and finishing glaze, which speeds up prep and layers flavor. Boneless chicken thighs stay juicy under high heat and develop a glossy coating when the cornstarch is added. Cooking the chicken first and removing it lets the vegetables cook just right without overcooking the meat. The sauce is split so you get an intense marinade first and a shiny, sticky finish at the end. Using pre-cooked jasmine rice saves time and keeps the entire meal under thirty minutes. Minimal ingredients mean less chopping and fewer dishes.

Flavor and Texture

The sauce balances salty soy with sweet honey and a touch of tang from rice vinegar for a crowd-pleasing hit. Fresh garlic and ginger add bright aromatic notes that lift the whole bowl. Sesame oil gives that final nutty aroma that makes the dish feel complete. Broccoli and bell pepper provide contrasting crunch and color against the tender chicken. A sprinkle of green onion and sesame seeds adds a fresh finish and a slight textural pop.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups cooked jasmine rice
¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste

Step by Step Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Set it aside.
Place the chicken in a resealable bag or bowl. Pour half of the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, cooking for about 8–10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove excess marinade.
Toss the broccoli and bell pepper into the skillet. Stir fry for about 5 minutes until they are just tender.
Pour the remaining sauce and cornstarch mixture into the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing it to simmer until the sauce thickens (about 2–3 minutes).
Divide the cooked jasmine rice into serving bowls. Spoon the sticky chicken and vegetables over the rice.
Finish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use pre-cooked or microwaveable jasmine rice to save 10–15 minutes. Trim and cut the chicken ahead of time and keep it chilled while the sauce sits; this shrinks active cooking time. Swap fresh broccoli for frozen florets if you need an ultra-quick route; add them right from frozen and cook a minute or two longer. If you want a no-fuss protein swap, skinless chicken breast works fine but watch timing to avoid dryness. For more fast chicken bowl inspiration, check our roundup of the best Greek chicken bowls for different flavor ideas.

Storage and Meal Prep

Let leftovers cool completely before storing in airtight containers to keep texture steady. Refrigerate for up to three days and reheat gently in a skillet to maintain saucy shine. For freezing, separate rice and chicken portions; freeze the chicken and sauce only for up to two months and thaw overnight in the fridge. Pack vegetables fresh when possible for meal prep to avoid sogginess.

Short Closing Note

This recipe is built for speed without sacrificing taste, and it scales easily for family meals. Keep the sauce components on hand to whip these bowls together on any busy night.

Conclusion

If you want the original inspiration behind this version of sticky chicken, see the full source recipe at Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls on Erin Lives Whole for extra notes and variations.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.