Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls – Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a well-built rice bowl. The balance of tender, flavorful chicken, fresh green broccoli, perfectly cooked rice, and a sticky, savory sauce is just unbeatable. Top it off with a drizzle of spicy mayo and a scattering of sesame seeds and green onions, and you’re looking at a bowl of pure joy. This recipe has become one of my favorite weeknight dinners, not just because it’s fast and easy, but because it truly feels like something special every single time I make it.

It all started when I was craving one of those takeout-style rice bowls that’s drenched in glossy sauce with just enough spice to warm you up—but I wanted something homemade, wholesome, and completely halal. After a few rounds of experimenting, I landed on this combo of chili-spiced chicken, sticky soy and honey glaze, steamed broccoli, and fluffy jasmine rice. And of course, the spicy mayo brings the whole thing together like a boss.

What I love most about this bowl is that it’s not fussy at all. You can make everything ahead of time, keep it warm, or even prep it for meals throughout the week. It’s also super family-friendly—my nieces ask for it by name—and it hits the sweet spot between comforting and bold. Whether you’re making dinner for yourself, your partner, or your entire crew, this is a meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples in a fresh, exciting way.

So if you’ve been on the hunt for a go-to rice bowl that brings together easy prep, cozy vibes, and restaurant-style flavor, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Chicken Rice Recipe

First and foremost, this recipe is a weeknight dream. The ingredients are simple, the process is straightforward, and the result is wildly delicious. But there’s more to love than just convenience.

It’s packed with flavor in every bite. The chicken is seasoned with a bold mix of chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano, then air-fried until golden and juicy. Once it’s tossed in that sticky, garlicky sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and a splash of rice vinegar, it becomes the star of the show. The sauce thickens beautifully thanks to arrowroot powder (you can also use cornstarch), giving the dish that signature glossy finish you usually only find in restaurant meals.

The broccoli is simple but essential—it adds a fresh, earthy balance and a bit of crunch that plays perfectly with the rich chicken and soft rice. And don’t get me started on the spicy mayo. It’s creamy, punchy, and incredibly easy to make with just three ingredients. Even a quick drizzle takes this bowl to the next level.

It’s also totally customizable. You can swap in cauliflower for the broccoli, use brown rice instead of white, or even add a fried egg on top for extra richness. Want more heat? Add extra sriracha to the sauce or mayo. Trying to keep it lighter? Use low-sodium soy sauce and go easy on the drizzle.

Another huge plus: it’s meal-prep friendly. You can make everything in advance, store it in containers, and reheat when you’re ready to eat. It reheats beautifully and doesn’t lose its flavor or texture, making it perfect for work lunches or quick grab-and-go dinners.

In short, it’s everything you want in a dinner—easy, flavorful, comforting, and endlessly adaptable.

Health Benefits

Even though this sticky chicken rice bowl tastes indulgent, it’s actually filled with good-for-you ingredients that make it a smart choice for any day of the week. Let’s break it down.

Starting with the chicken, this lean protein is a fantastic source of essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and zinc. Using chicken breast keeps the fat content low while still delivering plenty of satisfying protein to keep you full and energized. Air frying or baking instead of deep-frying also reduces unnecessary oil while still giving you that golden, crisp exterior.

Broccoli is a true powerhouse when it comes to nutrition. It’s loaded with fiber, antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Steaming it lightly helps retain its nutrients while keeping that fresh, vibrant green color. It also adds texture and volume to your meal, which helps you feel full without adding extra calories.

The rice, especially if you use jasmine or a high-quality white rice, is a gentle source of carbohydrates that provide energy. If you’re looking to boost the fiber content, you can always swap in brown rice or even quinoa.

Now let’s talk about the sticky sauce. While it does include some honey and soy sauce, the quantities are balanced to deliver maximum flavor with minimal sugar and sodium. You can opt for low-sodium soy sauce to make it even more heart-healthy. The garlic and ginger in the sauce offer additional immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

The spicy mayo is where richness comes in, but even here, a little goes a long way. You’re in control of how much you drizzle, and you can thin it with water to keep the calorie count in check. Want to make it even lighter? Use a yogurt-based mayo or swap in plain Greek yogurt for a creamy alternative.

All in all, this dish brings together protein, fiber, healthy fats, and carbohydrates in a balanced and satisfying way. It’s hearty enough to feel like a treat but smart enough to fit into a health-conscious lifestyle.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before you start cooking, here’s what you need to know about timing and portions. This meal comes together fairly quickly, and most of the components can be made at the same time if you multitask a little.

Total Time
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 25 minutes
Total: 40 minutes

Servings
This recipe makes 4 hearty rice bowls. You can stretch it to 5 smaller portions if needed, especially if you’re serving younger kids or adding extra sides.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 14g
Sodium: 980mg

These values are estimates and can vary depending on the brands you use and your specific serving sizes. To lighten it up, reduce the amount of spicy mayo or use brown rice. To make it more filling, double the broccoli or add an egg on top.

Ingredients List

Let’s talk ingredients. Everything in this recipe is easy to find, budget-friendly, and likely already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s the breakdown:

Main Components

• 2 cups uncooked jasmine or white rice
  Aromatic and fluffy, this forms the base of the bowl. Cook it according to package instructions and fluff it before serving.
• 2 small heads broccoli, chopped
  Fresh and vibrant, broccoli brings color and crunch. Cut it into bite-sized florets for even cooking.
• 3 large chicken breasts, diced
  Lean and protein-rich, chicken breast is perfect for this bowl. Dice it into small chunks for quick, even cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  Used to coat the chicken before air frying or baking, olive oil helps lock in moisture and crisp up the edges.
• 1 teaspoon salt
  Enhances the overall flavor.
• ½ teaspoon pepper
  Adds subtle heat and depth.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
  Brings warmth and complexity to the chicken seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  Adds a smoky, savory flavor that really complements the sticky sauce.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
  Mild and sweet, onion powder boosts the overall seasoning blend.
• 1 teaspoon oregano
  Herbaceous and earthy, oregano balances the spice.

Sticky Sauce

• ½ cup soy sauce
  Savory and rich, soy sauce is the foundation of the sticky glaze. Use low-sodium if desired.
• ½ cup honey
  Adds natural sweetness and helps the sauce become sticky and glossy.
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
  A little acidity brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  Pungent and aromatic, garlic gives the sauce a bold kick.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha
  Spicy and tangy, sriracha balances the sweetness of the honey.
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  Adds depth and nuttiness.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  Warm and zesty, ginger pairs beautifully with garlic and soy.
• 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  This creates a slurry that thickens the sauce. Cornstarch can be substituted if needed.

Spicy Mayo

• ½ cup mayonnaise
  Creamy and rich, mayo is the base of the drizzle.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
  Adds a spicy edge.
• 2–3 tablespoons water
  Used to thin the mayo to drizzling consistency.

Optional Garnish

• Sesame seeds
  Add a light crunch and toasty flavor.
• Green onions, chopped
  Fresh and sharp, these bring a pop of color and brightness.

Now that you’ve got everything you need, let’s move into the heart of the cooking process.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe is made up of several simple components that come together beautifully in a bowl. What’s great is that many of these steps can be done at the same time if you’re comfortable multitasking. Don’t worry, though—if you prefer to work one part at a time, you’ll still have this dinner on the table in under an hour. Let’s go step by step.

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking the rice since it takes the longest and can sit covered while you prepare the other parts.

• Measure out 2 cups of jasmine or white rice and rinse it under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook up fluffy rather than sticky.
• Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Typically, that means adding the rice to a pot with about 3 ½ to 4 cups of water and a pinch of salt, bringing it to a boil, then covering and simmering on low for about 15–18 minutes.
• Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and cover it to keep it warm until ready to assemble your bowls.

Pro Tip: You can also use a rice cooker or an Instant Pot to make this step even easier and hands-off.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

While the rice is cooking, get your broccoli going.

• Wash and chop 2 small heads of broccoli into bite-sized florets. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size for even cooking.
• You can steam the broccoli on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Stovetop: Place the broccoli in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 4–5 minutes until just fork-tender but still bright green.
  • Microwave: Add the broccoli to a microwave-safe bowl with a few tablespoons of water. Cover with a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for about 2–3 minutes, checking for tenderness.
• Once steamed, drain any excess water and set the broccoli aside.

Tip: If you like your broccoli a little more roasted and caramelized, you can toss it in a bit of olive oil and roast it at 400°F for 15 minutes instead of steaming.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Time to get the protein part rolling. The seasoning blend on the chicken adds a bold layer of flavor that holds up against the sticky sauce.

• Dice 3 large chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• In a bowl, toss the diced chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon oregano. Mix until every piece is well-coated.

Now choose your cooking method:

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and cooked to an internal temp of 160°F.
• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Spread the chicken out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Stovetop Method: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chicken in a single layer, cooking for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and browned on all sides.

Once cooked, set the chicken aside while you prepare the sticky sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sticky Sauce

This sauce is the heart of the dish—sweet, savory, spicy, and totally irresistible.

• In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup soy sauce, ½ cup honey, ¼ cup rice vinegar, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons sriracha, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon ground ginger.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
• In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Pour this into the simmering sauce.
• Stir continuously as the sauce thickens, which should take 3–5 minutes. You’re looking for a glossy, syrupy texture that coats the back of a spoon.
• Once thickened, remove from heat.

Note: Arrowroot creates a clear, shiny finish. If you don’t have it, cornstarch works just as well—it just gives a slightly more opaque sauce.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Mayo

This step takes less than 2 minutes, and it adds so much to the final dish.

• In a small bowl, mix ½ cup mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon sriracha.
• Add 2–3 tablespoons of water, one at a time, whisking in between, until the sauce is smooth and thin enough to drizzle.
• Taste and adjust the heat level by adding more sriracha if desired.

Want to lighten it up? Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo or go for a half-and-half blend.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

Now it’s time for the fun part—building your bowls.

• Start with a scoop of cooked rice as your base.
• Add a generous portion of steamed broccoli to one side of the bowl.
• Top with the seasoned chicken, either straight from the air fryer or tossed in some of the sticky sauce.
• Spoon additional sticky sauce over the chicken and rice, letting it soak into the grains.
• Drizzle with the spicy mayo.
• Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a handful of chopped green onions for crunch and color.

And just like that, your sticky chicken rice bowl is ready to be devoured.

How to Serve this Sticky Chicken Rice

These bowls are all-in-one meals, but a few extra touches can make them even more special. Here are some serving ideas to mix it up based on the occasion or your mood.

• Serve in wide, shallow bowls to make everything easy to scoop and mix. A pretty bowl adds to the enjoyment.
• Top each bowl with a soft-boiled or fried egg for extra richness. The yolk blends into the sauce and takes things to the next level.
• Add sliced avocado for a creamy, cooling contrast to the spicy mayo and sticky sauce.
• Sprinkle on some crushed roasted seaweed for an umami twist.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil if you want an herby layer of flavor.

For kids or picky eaters, you can serve the components separately—chicken on one plate, rice and broccoli on another—and let them dip the chicken in the sauce like nuggets.

If you’re entertaining or serving a crowd, make this buffet-style and let everyone build their own bowl. It’s interactive, customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit.

Pairing Suggestions for this Sticky Chicken Rice

Even though this dish works perfectly on its own, you can easily pair it with other sides, drinks, or desserts to make it a more complete meal.

Sides

• Cucumber Salad: A quick cucumber salad with vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar adds a fresh crunch that balances the bold flavors of the bowl.
• Miso Soup: A light, warm soup served before or with the meal adds a soothing touch.
• Spring Rolls: Halal chicken or vegetable spring rolls make a crispy appetizer or side dish.
• Stir-Fried Greens: Bok choy, snow peas, or baby spinach stir-fried with garlic and sesame oil pair beautifully.

Beverages

• Lemon Mint Water: A refreshing, palate-cleansing drink that balances the savory richness.
• Iced Green Tea: Slightly bitter and refreshing, it complements the sweet and sticky glaze.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus: Light and fizzy, it keeps the meal feeling fresh.

Desserts

• Fruit Salad: A mix of mango, pineapple, and berries offers a sweet finish without being heavy.
• Coconut Milk Rice Pudding: For something indulgent yet in line with the meal’s vibe, try a small serving of rice pudding with a dash of cardamom or cinnamon.
• Date and Nut Bites: These make a great naturally sweet dessert, especially during Ramadan or special occasions.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this sticky chicken rice bowl is how well it keeps. Whether you’re prepping ahead for the week or saving leftovers from dinner, storing and reheating is easy—and the dish tastes just as amazing the next day.

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers, transfer the chicken, rice, and broccoli into separate airtight containers. Separating the components keeps the textures better intact, especially if you plan to reheat them.

• In the refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Spicy mayo: Keep in a small covered container or jar in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a stir before using.
• Sticky sauce: If you have extra, it stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat it in a small saucepan or microwave until warm and pourable.

Tip: For quicker lunch assembly, make individual portions in microwave-safe meal prep containers.

Freezing

You can freeze most parts of this dish for long-term storage, though some elements freeze better than others.

• Chicken: Fully cooked and sauced chicken freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to 3 months.
• Rice: Freeze plain cooked rice in freezer bags or containers. To avoid clumps, let the rice cool, spread it in a thin layer, and freeze before transferring to a bag. Lasts up to 2 months.
• Broccoli: Steamed broccoli can be frozen, but it may soften slightly upon thawing. If you prefer more texture, consider roasting it instead of steaming before freezing.
• Spicy mayo: Mayonnaise-based sauces don’t freeze well and can separate when thawed. It’s best made fresh or stored in the fridge only.

Reheating

Reheating your sticky chicken rice bowl components is simple and quick.

• Rice: Sprinkle a tablespoon of water over the rice and microwave, covered, for 1–2 minutes until hot. You can also reheat it in a steamer basket or stovetop pan with a little water and a lid.
• Chicken: Microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Or, reheat on the stovetop in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.
• Broccoli: Microwave briefly or reheat on the stovetop with a little olive oil for a quick sauté.

Avoid overheating to maintain the best textures, especially for the chicken and rice. Once everything is warm, reassemble your bowl, drizzle with the spicy mayo, and enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple and beginner-friendly, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here’s how to steer clear of them and make sure your rice bowls are perfect every time.

1. Not Draining or Rinsing the Rice

Failing to rinse your rice before cooking can leave it gummy and clumpy. Always rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. If you’re using jasmine rice or another long-grain variety, this step is especially important for a light and fluffy texture.

2. Overcooking the Chicken

Because the chicken is diced into small pieces, it cooks quickly. If you leave it in the air fryer, oven, or skillet too long, it can dry out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—160°F is perfect. It will continue cooking slightly as it rests.

3. Skipping the Slurry for the Sauce

The arrowroot (or cornstarch) slurry is what makes the sauce thick and sticky. Don’t forget to mix it with cold water before adding it to the hot sauce. If you add the dry powder straight into the saucepan, it will clump.

4. Overloading the Bowl

It’s tempting to pile everything on, but balance is key. Too much sauce can overwhelm the rice, and too much spicy mayo can make it feel heavy. Start with moderate amounts, then let everyone add more to taste.

5. Not Letting the Sauce Thicken Fully

The sticky sauce needs to simmer for a few minutes to reach the right consistency. If it’s too thin, it won’t cling to the chicken. Keep it on medium heat and stir often—it should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready.

By keeping an eye out for these small details, you’ll set yourself up for rice bowl success.

Pro Tips

Want to take your sticky chicken rice bowl to the next level? These insider tips will help you boost the flavor, save time, and impress your tastebuds.

1. Marinate the Chicken Ahead of Time

If you’ve got the time, season the chicken earlier in the day or even the night before. Letting the spices soak in for a few hours enhances the flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Just toss it all together in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until ready to cook.

2. Toast Your Sesame Seeds

This small step makes a big difference. Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. They add an extra nutty aroma that ties the whole dish together.

3. Double the Sauce for Later

If you love saucy meals (and who doesn’t?), go ahead and double the sticky sauce recipe. Store half in the fridge and drizzle it over stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken, or rice throughout the week.

4. Use Pre-Cut Vegetables for Speed

Short on time? Buy pre-chopped broccoli florets or a mix of stir-fry veggies from the store. They cook quickly and save you precious prep time.

5. Warm the Bowls Before Serving

Warm bowls = better meals. If you’re serving right away, pop your empty serving bowls in the oven (at low heat) for a few minutes or microwave them for 30 seconds. It keeps the food hot longer and elevates the eating experience.

These little touches might not take much effort, but they’ll make your rice bowl taste like it came from a restaurant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There’s a good chance you’ve got a few questions before diving into this recipe, especially if it’s your first time making a rice bowl from scratch. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions, answered with helpful tips.

Can I use store-bought cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works in a pinch. Just dice it and toss it in the sticky sauce before assembling your bowl. You’ll save time, and it still tastes great.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No problem. You can bake the chicken in the oven or cook it in a skillet on the stovetop. Both methods work well. Just keep an eye on the cook time to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this Sticky Chicken Rice recipe ahead?

Yes! This is a perfect meal prep recipe. Cook everything ahead of time and store the components separately. Assemble and heat as needed. It makes quick lunches and dinners during the week a breeze.

Is there a low-sodium version?

To reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the extra salt in the seasoning blend. You can also thin the sticky sauce with water or unsalted broth if needed.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. This recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as you check the mayo ingredients (or use a dairy-free alternative like avocado mayo). Everything else is good to go.

What can I substitute for sriracha?

If you don’t have sriracha, you can use another hot sauce like chili garlic sauce, sambal oelek, or even a mild harissa paste. Adjust to your spice preference.

Is this gluten-free?

The only ingredient you need to check is the soy sauce. Most regular soy sauces contain gluten, so be sure to use a certified gluten-free brand like tamari.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Definitely. Just thaw it first and steam or roast it as directed. It may be a little softer than fresh broccoli, but it still works well in the bowl.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, snap peas, shredded carrots, and even zucchini are great options. You can steam, sauté, or roast them and mix them into the bowl.

How spicy is this Sticky Chicken Rice dish?

The spiciness is totally customizable. The sauce has a mild kick from the sriracha, but it’s balanced by the honey. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce or omit the sriracha in both the sauce and the mayo.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This sticky chicken rice bowl with broccoli and spicy mayo is more than just a quick meal—it’s a little bowl of comfort that delivers bold flavor, texture, and nourishment in every bite. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a treat but is still simple and practical enough to make any night of the week.

Whether you’re new to home cooking or a seasoned pro looking for a dependable weeknight dinner, this recipe is one you’ll want to bookmark. From the perfectly seasoned chicken to the savory-sweet glaze and creamy mayo drizzle, every element is designed to come together effortlessly and deliciously.

You can serve it as-is for a satisfying one-bowl meal or pair it with sides, drinks, and desserts for a full-on dinner spread. The components can be made ahead, and leftovers reheat beautifully—making it ideal for meal prepping or feeding a hungry family.

Now it’s your turn. Grab your ingredients, set aside about 40 minutes, and get ready to whip up a new favorite. And when you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment, share the recipe with a friend, or tag me with a photo of your beautiful rice bowl.

Because once you make this dish, it’s not just dinner—it’s your new weekly ritual. Enjoy every bite!

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