Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce

Posted on June 3, 2025

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce

Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that combines the best of sweet and spicy flavors in a single bowl! Our Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce recipe is the perfect blend of tender chicken thighs marinated in a zesty mix of soy sauce, honey, and sriracha, served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice and vibrant vegetables. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a fantastic choice for dinner any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe promises to impress with its beautiful presentation and mouthwatering taste.

In this article, we’ll explore why you’ll absolutely love this recipe, provide a detailed list of ingredients, and guide you step-by-step through the preparation process. Plus, we have some practical tips to ensure your cooking experience is seamless and enjoyable. So, let’s dive into the world of sweet and spicy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce recipe is a fantastic option for several reasons:

  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, soy sauce, and sriracha creates a harmonious balance between sweetness and heat. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
  • Healthier Choice: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of fatty cuts of meat makes this dish a healthier option while still being juicy and flavorful. Additionally, the colorful array of vegetables adds essential nutrients and fiber to your meal.
  • Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of just over 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You can whip up a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha to the marinade. You can also swap out the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This recipe is versatile enough to cater to any taste!
  • Meal Prep Friendly: These rice bowls make excellent leftovers. Prepare a batch in advance, and you’ll have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Aside from its delicious flavor and easy preparation, there are many reasons to try this Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce recipe:

  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or hosting a festive gathering, these rice bowls are sure to impress. Their vibrant colors and enticing aromas make them a feast for the eyes and palate.
  • Kid-Friendly: The sweet and slightly spicy flavor profile tends to appeal to kids, making this dish a great way to introduce them to new tastes without overwhelming them. Plus, they can help with assembling the bowls, making it a fun family activity!
  • Budget-Friendly: Chicken thighs are often more affordable compared to other cuts of meat, and this recipe utilizes simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Enjoy a gourmet meal without breaking the bank!
  • Great for Leftovers: The flavors of the marinade intensify when stored, making leftovers even more delicious. Enjoy them cold in a salad, or reheated for a satisfying meal.
  • Cooking Skills Development: This recipe is a fantastic way for beginner cooks to practice their skills, from marinating and sautéing to assembling a beautifully presented dish. It’s an excellent introduction to Asian flavors and cooking techniques.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients

To make your Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice Bowls

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 green onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

For the Ginger Soy Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Necessary Utensils

To ensure a smooth cooking process, you will need the following utensils:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Steamer or pot for boiling
  • Spoon for serving
  • Bowls for assembling the rice bowls

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed steps to create your Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce:

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, sriracha, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
  2. Cook the Rice: Prepare jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the rice to remove excess starch, then cooking it in a saucepan with water until fluffy. Keep warm until ready to serve.
  3. Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, steam or boil the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they turn vibrant green and are tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside. In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the sliced bell pepper and julienned carrot for 3-5 minutes until slightly tender.
  4. Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a little oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and caramelized. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  5. Make the Ginger Soy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, honey, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed; you can add more honey for sweetness or more soy sauce for saltiness.
  6. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked jasmine rice among serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced chicken, steamed broccoli, sautéed bell pepper, and carrot. Drizzle generously with the ginger soy sauce.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro on top if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!

FAQs

What can I substitute for chicken thighs in this recipe?

You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts may cook faster.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the vegetables ahead of time. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep the rice and veggies fresh.

What other vegetables can I use in the rice bowls?

You can use a variety of vegetables such as snap peas, zucchini, or even spinach. Feel free to customize based on your taste and what’s in season.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Can I freeze the chicken and rice bowls?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and rice bowls. Just make sure to store them in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

In summary, our Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce are a deliciously satisfying meal that is quick to prepare and customizable to your liking. With a balance of sweet and spicy flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. We invite you to try this recipe, share your experience in the comments, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends! For more delicious recipes, check out our other creations like Sweet Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls or Blackened Salmon Rice Bowls. Happy cooking!

For more inspiration, check out our Pinterest page here.

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowls with Ginger Soy Sauce

A delicious and vibrant bowl featuring marinated chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and a zesty ginger soy sauce.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Steamer or Pot

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (450g)
  • 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Honey
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice Bowls

  • 2 cups Cooked jasmine rice
  • 1 cup Broccoli florets
  • 1 Bell pepper, sliced (any color)
  • 1 Carrot, julienned
  • 1 Green onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

For the Ginger Soy Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons Soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Honey
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, sriracha, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they are well coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
  • Cook the Rice: Prepare jasmine rice according to package instructions. Keep warm until ready to serve.
  • Prepare the Vegetables: In a steamer or boiling water, cook the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until vibrant and tender. Drain and set aside. Sauté the bell pepper and carrot in a little oil for about 3-5 minutes until slightly tender.
  • Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a little oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and caramelized. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  • Make the Ginger Soy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, honey, sesame oil, and garlic. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Top with sliced chicken, steamed broccoli, sautéed bell pepper, and carrot. Drizzle with ginger soy sauce.
  • Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha. You can also substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Keyword chicken, Ginger, rice bowl, spicy

You might also like these recipes