Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Bowls

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Sweet, sticky, and loaded with umami — Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Bowls are that satisfying balance of comfort and punchy flavor that you’ll keep craving. Juicy seared chicken chunks are glazed in a glossy, savory sauce and served warm over fluffy rice. It’s a weeknight dinner hero that comes together fast but doesn’t skimp on taste.

This dish delivers contrast in every bite: crisp-edged chicken, tender inside, coated with a caramelized honey garlic glaze that’s just the right mix of sweet and savory. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or throwing together something fast on a busy evening, this bowl earns its spot in the rotation.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. Chicken thighs provide more moisture and flavor, especially when cooked in a hot skillet to build that sear before the sauce is added. If you prefer a leaner option, breasts will work too — just avoid overcooking to keep them juicy.

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Ingredients for the Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Bowls

Chicken: You need boneless, skinless pieces (breasts or thighs). Cut into bite-sized chunks, they sear quickly and soak up the glaze.

Soy Sauce: Provides the essential salty umami base for the sauce.

Honey: Balances the salt with sweetness, helping create that sticky glaze.

Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is essential — it sharpens the sauce and adds aromatic depth.

Rice Vinegar: A splash of acidity to brighten and balance the sauce.

Cornstarch: Mixed with water to create a slurry that thickens the sauce perfectly.

Cooked White Rice: The ideal base to absorb all the flavor — jasmine or long grain both work well.

Green Onions & Sesame Seeds: Garnish for crunch, freshness, and a finishing pop.

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How To Make the Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Bowls

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your cubed chicken in a single layer and let it sear without stirring for 2-3 minutes. Flip and continue to cook until golden on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

Mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.

Step 4: Combine and Glaze

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together so the chicken is well coated in the honey garlic sauce. Let it simmer together for a minute to absorb flavor.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Spoon cooked white rice into bowls and top with the glazed chicken. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

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Serving and Storing Your Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Bowls

Serve your Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Bowls hot, ideally right after glazing the chicken. The fresh sear and sticky sauce are best when warm. These bowls also pair well with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a cucumber salad for a complete meal.

For storing, let leftovers cool before placing them in airtight containers. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in 1-minute intervals until warm, or heat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them perfect for this recipe. Just trim any excess fat before cooking.

Is there a substitute for rice vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar in a pinch. Just note the flavor may be slightly tangier.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Cook the chicken and sauce, then refrigerate. Assemble with rice just before serving or reheating.

What type of rice is best?

Jasmine rice or long grain white rice is ideal, but brown rice or even cauliflower rice can work too.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce while it simmers to give it a heat kick.

Can I freeze Honey Garlic Chicken?

Yes, just freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the rice. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Savory Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs, an oven-baked option bursting with citrus and garlic. Or try the Air Fryer Crispy Honey Sriracha Chicken Bites for something crisp and spicy.

For a one-pan meal, check out the One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta — it’s indulgent but loaded with flavor. Or, if you’re craving more Asian-inspired flavors, the Spicy Honey Sriracha Chicken with Noodles is a perfect follow-up.

And for comfort in a bowl, the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta brings rich, spicy goodness to your dinner rotation.

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use chicken thighs or breasts? Did you toss in extra veggies? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others put their spin on it.

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