Name: SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 500 grams boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 tablespoons sesame oil; 200 grams jasmine or brown rice; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 large carrot, julienned; 2 green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds, for garnish

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet wonderfully simple to put together, these SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS are an absolute must-try. Tender chicken pieces glazed in a savory-sweet sauce, paired with vibrant, crisp veggies and fluffy rice, make every bite a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comforting and fresh, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or whenever you crave something satisfying and specially homemade. Let me take you through this delicious journey so you can create your own bowl of happiness.

SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS lies in the straightforward yet crucial ingredients that each bring their own magic to the table. From the fragrant sesame oil to the crisp, colorful vegetables, every component adds a layer of flavor, texture, or color that elevates the dish.

500 grams boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Perfectly lean and tender, they soak up the marinade beautifully.
4 tablespoons sesame oil: This oil gives the dish its unmistakable nutty aroma and depth.
3 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a savory umami kick that balances the sweetness.
2 tablespoons honey: A natural sweetener that helps create a glossy, sticky sauce.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Offers a mild acidity that brightens the flavors.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to coat the chicken perfectly.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dish with a warm, pungent undertone.
1 teaspoon ginger powder: Brings a subtle zing and a hint of spice.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
200 grams jasmine or brown rice: The hearty base that soaks up every delicious bit of sauce.
1 bell pepper, sliced: Adds crunch and a pop of vibrant color.
1 large carrot, julienned: Provides sweetness and crisp texture for balance.
2 green onions, chopped: For a fresh, sharp bite as a finishing touch.
Sesame seeds for garnish: Adds a toasty crunch and an inviting visual appeal.

How to Make SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

Begin by rinsing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this step removes excess starch for fluffier grains. Then, add the rice to a pot with water and a pinch of salt, bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, cover and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and perfectly cooked through. This simple base is essential as it absorbs all the scrumptious sauce later on.

Step 2: Cutting and Marinating the Chicken

While your rice is cooking, cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces—this ensures each chunk will be juicy and quick to cook. Next, whip up the marinade by mixing soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger powder, along with salt and pepper. Toss the chicken in this flavorful bath and let it sit for about 10 minutes so it soaks up all that lovely taste.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

Heat up the magic sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Spread the marinated chicken pieces evenly across the pan and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. This step locks in the flavors and creates that irresistible caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Adding Vegetables

Now it’s time to add those fresh, crunchy slices of bell pepper and carrot strips. Stir-fry them together with the chicken for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. This keeps them tender yet crisp, offering a colorful contrast that enlivens the whole bowl.

Step 5: Bringing It All Together

Finally, assemble your SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS by spooning fluffy rice into each bowl, topping it generously with the glistening chicken and vibrant vegetables. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped green onions and a handful of toasted sesame seeds on top—these finishing touches make the dish sing both in flavor and presentation.

How to Serve SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS

Garnishes

The garnishes really make this dish pop! Fresh green onions deliver a slight bite and freshness, while sesame seeds add that irresistible nutty crunch. You can also throw in a few fresh cilantro leaves or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. These simple additions elevate the warmth and invitation of the bowl.

Side Dishes

SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS stand well on their own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving them with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed edamame. A light miso soup can also balance the hearty flavors beautifully, making the meal feel like a complete, vibrant experience that’s perfect for sharing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS in hollowed-out bell peppers or even over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option. You can also layer the ingredients in a mason jar for meal prep or picnic-friendly portions, keeping the vibrant textures and flavors intact until serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep rice and chicken-vegetable mixtures separate for best texture, then combine just before reheating for that fresh-out-of-the-pan experience.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS by portioning the chicken and veggies in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags. For optimal quality, freeze for up to 2 months. Keep the rice separate if possible, as textures can change upon thawing.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating gently is key. Microwave on medium power or warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist and tender. Add fresh garnishes after reheating to maintain that delightful crunch and brightness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more juiciness and rich flavor. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly alongside the vegetables.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap out regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari sauce. Make sure your cornstarch and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free as well, and you’re good to go!

Can I substitute the rice with something else?

Definitely. Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even noodles work wonderfully as bases for SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS, making it easy to tailor to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I add heat?

The basic recipe is not spicy but full of savory and sweet flavors. If you want to kick it up a notch, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha either in the marinade or as a garnish.

What can I do if I don’t have rice vinegar?

You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar in the same amount. Though slightly different in flavor, they will still give that nice acidity the dish needs.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and satisfying about SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS—a dish that feels like a warm hug with every bite. The balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors paired with fresh veggies and fluffy rice creates a harmony that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just want a crowd-pleaser on the table, this recipe is a wonderful go-to. I can’t wait for you to try making these bowls and to hear how much you and your loved ones enjoy them!

SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 4 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Sesame Chicken Bowls recipe offers a flavorful and balanced meal featuring tender chicken marinated in a savory-sweet sauce, paired with fragrant jasmine rice and crisp vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines rich sesame oil, honey, and soy sauce to create a delicious glaze that coats juicy chicken pieces, served alongside colorful bell peppers and carrots for added crunch and nutrition.

Instructions

Cook the rice: Rinse 200 grams of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Place the rice in a pot with 400 ml of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is fully absorbed.
Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
Make the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly. Let it marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Cook the chicken: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Stir-fry the vegetables: Add sliced bell pepper and julienned carrot to the skillet with the chicken. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp, maintaining their color and texture.
Assemble the bowl: Serve the cooked rice in individual bowls, topping each with the sesame chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

You can substitute brown rice for jasmine rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
Adjust the amount of honey based on your preferred sweetness level.
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinade.
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Leftover chicken bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stir-fry
Cuisine: Asian