Name: SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 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; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 large carrot, julienned; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish); 200 grams jasmine or brown rice; 400 ml water; Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a vibrant and flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, these SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS are an absolute must-try. Juicy bite-sized chicken pieces marinated in a mouthwatering blend of soy, honey, and sesame oil come together with crisp vegetables and fluffy rice to create a feast that hits all the right notes of sweet, savory, and nutty. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, these bowls bring comforting flavors with a fresh, colorful presentation that’s sure to brighten up your table.

SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple but relies on essential ingredients that each add their own magic to the final dish. From the fragrant sesame oil that infuses every bite with nuttiness, to the fresh crunch of bell peppers and carrots adding color and texture, every element is curated for harmony and flavor.

500 grams boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect protein base that’s tender and easy to cook through quickly.
4 tablespoons sesame oil: Adds a rich, toasted aroma that defines this recipe’s character.
3 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings a savory, umami depth to the marinade and sauce.
2 tablespoons honey: A touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Offers a subtle tang that lifts the overall flavor profile.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that desirable sticky glaze.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A simple way to inject mellow garlic flavor without overpowering.
1 teaspoon ginger powder: Adds a gentle warmth and zest that complements the sesame perfectly.
Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings that let the other flavors shine.
200 grams jasmine or brown rice: The hearty, fragrant foundation for the bowls.
1 bell pepper, sliced: Adds vibrant color and a crisp bite.
1 large carrot, julienned: Brings sweetness and a lovely crunchy contrast.
2 green onions, chopped: A fresh garnish that adds a mild oniony brightness.
Sesame seeds for garnish: Gives a delightful nutty crunch on top for the finishing touch.

How to Make SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by rinsing your choice of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps keep the rice fluffy. Combine with water and a pinch of salt in a pot, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the grains are tender and water fully absorbed. This fragrant bed of rice will soak up every delicious drop of sauce from your sesame chicken.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

While the rice cooks, cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This size ensures each piece gets perfectly coated in the marinade and cooks evenly. Tender, evenly cooked chicken is the heart of your sesame chicken bowls.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse for the dish—balancing sweet, salty, tangy, and spiced notes. The cornstarch also acts as a thickener, giving the sauce its irresistible sticky texture.

Step 4: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces into the marinade, turning to coat all sides thoroughly. Allow the chicken to soak up those delicious flavors for at least 10 minutes. Even this short marinating time starts building the foundation for juicy, flavorful bites in your SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, spread the marinated chicken evenly across the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for a moment to achieve a slight sear, then stir occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown and cook through perfectly. That fragrant sesame aroma filling your kitchen is pure bliss.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Introduce the sliced bell pepper and julienned carrots to the skillet with the chicken. Stir-fry together for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp. This contrast in textures adds so much life and freshness to the bowl, balancing the rich chicken beautifully.

Step 7: Assemble the SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS

Dish out the cooked rice into serving bowls, top generously with the sesame chicken and veggie mixture. Finish by sprinkling chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top for that perfect finishing touch that makes every bite exciting. Your colorful, flavorful SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS are ready to enjoy!

How to Serve SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS

Garnishes

Garnishes elevate the dish from tasty to stunning. Chopped green onions add a burst of freshness and mild sharpness that cuts through the richness, while a generous sprinkling of sesame seeds brings a nutty crunch and helps highlight the sesame flavor throughout the bowl. You can also add a few chili flakes if you love a touch of heat.

Side Dishes

Though SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS are such a complete meal on their own, pairing them with light side dishes makes your meal even more satisfying. Simple steamed edamame, a crisp cucumber salad, or quick pickled radishes can refresh your palate and add different textures to complement the main bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

To really impress, serve your SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS in beautiful ceramic bowls or bamboo boxes for an authentic vibe. Layer rice, chicken, and vegetables in visually appealing sections, then garnish with a small lime wedge for a zesty pop. You might even serve it family-style on a large platter with all components separated for guests to build their own bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the rice and chicken mixture together to maintain the flavors, but consider storing garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds separately for the freshest experience when reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to two months. For best texture, cook fresh rice when ready to serve. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge for easier reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if the sauce thickens too much. Then, sprinkle the fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds just before serving to revive that wonderful texture and burst of flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs tend to stay juicy and flavorful and are a great alternative to chicken breasts in SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

While a quick marinade of 10 minutes is recommended to infuse great flavor, if you’re short on time, you can mix the marinade and cook the chicken immediately. Just know the flavors may not be as deep but still delicious.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce to make SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS safe for those avoiding gluten without compromising on flavor.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice offers a fragrant, fluffy base that pairs beautifully, but brown rice works well too if you prefer a nuttier taste and more fiber. Either way, rinse the rice before cooking for the best texture.

How spicy are SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS?

This recipe is mild and balanced by default, but you can easily add spice by incorporating chili flakes or a dash of sriracha when cooking or serving to suit your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

These SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS are one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again. They blend ease and incredible flavor in such a satisfying way that it quickly becomes a go-to meal for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this colorful, comforting bowl of goodness!

SESAME CHICKEN BOWLS Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 29 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Sesame Chicken Bowl recipe features tender bite-sized chicken pieces marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, honey, and spices, stir-fried with vibrant vegetables and served over fluffy jasmine or brown rice. It’s a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight.

Instructions

Prepare 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 the heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed.
Cut the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring even sizes for consistent cooking.
Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a smooth marinade.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir until well coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken evenly to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Add Vegetables: Add the sliced bell pepper and julienned carrot to the skillet with the chicken. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
Assemble the Bowls: Serve the cooked rice in bowls, topping with the sesame chicken and vegetable stir-fry. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Notes

Use jasmine or brown rice depending on your preference; brown rice will require a slightly longer cooking time.
For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade or while stir-frying.
Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes but no longer than 30 minutes to prevent the cornstarch from breaking down the texture.
If sesame oil is not available, a neutral oil can be substituted, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-fry
Cuisine: Asian