Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that’s both quick and delicious. That’s why I’m excited to share my Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce! This dish is a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your family without taking hours in the kitchen. Picture tender chicken coated in a sweet and spicy glaze, served over fluffy jasmine rice, and drizzled with creamy Yum Yum sauce. It’s the perfect solution for a hectic weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce
This recipe is a game-changer for busy nights! It comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for your family. The combination of sweet honey and spicy sriracha creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies. Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your home!
Ingredients for Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked jasmine rice: This fluffy rice serves as the perfect base for your bowl, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, these pieces cook quickly and absorb the sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil: A staple in my kitchen, it’s great for sautéing and adds a lovely richness.
- Fresh ginger: This aromatic root brings a warm, spicy kick that elevates the dish.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and a savory note that complements the chicken.
- Honey: Sweet and sticky, it balances the heat from the sriracha perfectly.
- Soy sauce: This umami-packed ingredient enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Sriracha: Adjust this spicy sauce to your taste for that extra kick!
- Sesame oil: A drizzle of this oil adds a nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the taste of your chicken.
- Broccoli florets: These vibrant greens add color and crunch, plus they’re packed with nutrients.
- Shredded carrots: Sweet and crunchy, they provide a lovely contrast to the dish.
- Green onions: Sliced for garnish, they add a fresh, zesty touch.
- Sesame seeds: Optional, but they add a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
- For the Yum Yum Sauce:
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce that brings everything together.
- Ketchup: Adds a hint of sweetness and tanginess.
- Rice vinegar: This gives the sauce a nice acidity that balances the richness.
- Garlic powder: For an extra layer of garlic flavor without the chopping!
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a pop of color.
- Sugar: Just a pinch to enhance the sweetness of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, ensuring your sauce is perfectly seasoned.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delicious Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced ginger and garlic. Sauté them for about a minute until they become fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them with salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. The chicken should be juicy and tender, soaking up all those aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, grab a small bowl. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil. Once the chicken is cooked, pour this sweet and spicy mixture over it. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Steam the Broccoli
While the chicken is finishing up, steam your broccoli florets. You can do this in a steamer basket or even in the microwave. Just steam them for about 5 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant green. This adds a lovely crunch and nutrition to your bowls.
Step 5: Make the Yum Yum Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, and sugar. Mix everything until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. This creamy Yum Yum sauce is the perfect complement to your spicy chicken!
Step 6: Assemble the Bowls
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Divide the cooked jasmine rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with the spicy honey ginger chicken, steamed broccoli, and shredded carrots. Drizzle generously with the Yum Yum sauce. For a finishing touch, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Your beautiful bowls are ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
- Adjust the sriracha to your family’s spice tolerance—start small and add more if needed.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies for a personalized touch.
- Double the Yum Yum sauce recipe for extra drizzling on everything!
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Cutting board: Essential for chopping your chicken and veggies safely.
- Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes prep a breeze.
- Mixing bowls: Use these for whisking sauces and combining ingredients.
- Steamer basket: If you don’t have one, a microwave-safe dish with a lid works too!
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based meal.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Different Grains: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of jasmine rice for a nutritious twist.
- Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini for added color and nutrients.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with a chilled glass of iced green tea to complement the flavors.
- For a pop of color, garnish with fresh cilantro or additional sesame seeds.
- Consider adding a side of crispy spring rolls for a delightful crunch.
FAQs about Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce
Can I make Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and Yum Yum sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken and assemble your bowls with fresh rice and veggies.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu or chickpeas work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re heated through and flavorful.
How spicy is the Yum Yum sauce?
The Yum Yum sauce is quite mild, but you can adjust the garlic powder and paprika to your taste. If you want a kick, consider adding a dash of sriracha to the sauce!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
What other vegetables can I add to the bowls?
The beauty of these bowls is their versatility! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or even corn for a colorful and nutritious boost. Just steam or sauté them briefly to keep their crunch!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your family’s table. The vibrant colors and bold flavors make every bite a celebration. I love how this dish transforms a busy weeknight into a delightful culinary adventure. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those veggies without any complaints! Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce delight!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and flavorful dish featuring spicy honey ginger chicken served over jasmine rice, topped with a creamy Yum Yum sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- For the Yum Yum Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced ginger and garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil. Pour this mixture over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine all the ingredients for the Yum Yum Sauce and mix well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked jasmine rice among four bowls. Top with the spicy honey ginger chicken, steamed broccoli, and shredded carrots.
- Drizzle with Yum Yum Sauce and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
