Print

Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Bowl

honey garlic chicken rice bowl - featured image

A sticky, savory, and sweet honey garlic chicken rice bowl that comes together in just 10 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Asian-inspired dish features tender chicken, a glossy honey garlic sauce, fluffy rice, and optional veggies for a balanced, comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz) or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for crispy edges)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (can substitute olive or avocado oil)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use low-sodium or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (jasmine rice recommended)
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets (or mixed stir-fry veggies: snap peas, carrots, bell peppers)
  • 2 tablespoons sliced green onions (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds, for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken dry and cut into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces). Season with salt and pepper, then toss with cornstarch.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes.
  3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil.
  4. Add chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear for 2 minutes without moving, then stir or flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until mostly cooked through and golden.
  5. Pour honey garlic sauce over chicken. Stir to coat and cook until sauce is glossy and sticky (about 1 minute). Remove from heat.
  6. Prepare rice according to package instructions or reheat leftover rice until hot and fluffy.
  7. Steam broccoli or mixed veggies in the microwave for 1 minute with a splash of water, then drain.
  8. Divide rice between two bowls. Top with honey garlic chicken and veggies.
  9. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
  10. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen. If chicken isn’t browning, increase heat briefly.

Notes

For extra juiciness, use chicken thighs. Swap soy sauce for tamari to make gluten-free. Use leftover rotisserie chicken for even faster prep. Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist or swap rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. Watch the sauce closely to prevent burning. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days; flavors deepen overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, rice bowl, 10-minute dinner, easy chicken recipe, Asian chicken, weeknight meal, quick dinner, healthy rice bowl, meal prep, gluten-free option