Introduction
This delicious chicken bowl recipe combines the perfect blend of flavors and textures to create a satisfying meal. With bite-sized pieces of chicken marinated in sesame oil and lime juice, coated in a spicy sauce, and topped with a creamy Sriracha drizzle, this dish is sure to impress. The addition of jasmine rice, edamame, and colorful vegetables creates a vibrant and nutritious meal ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons chili crisp
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
For the Creamy Sriracha Drizzle:
– ¼ cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
For the Bowls:
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
– 1 cup shelled edamame, cooked
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– ½ cup roasted cashews
– 2 green onions, sliced
– ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Lime wedges, for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Directions
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sesame oil, lime juice, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the chili crisp, honey, and lime juice until well combined.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Prepare the Creamy Sriracha Drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
6. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked jasmine rice among serving bowls. Top each with the chili crisp chicken, cooked edamame, sliced red bell pepper, roasted cashews, green onions, and chopped cilantro.
7. Serve: Drizzle the creamy sriracha sauce over each bowl. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sesame oil, lime juice, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the chili crisp, honey, and lime juice until well combined.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Prepare the Creamy Sriracha Drizzle
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cooked jasmine rice among serving bowls. Top each with the chili crisp chicken, cooked edamame, sliced red bell pepper, roasted cashews, green onions, and chopped cilantro.
Serve
Drizzle the creamy sriracha sauce over each bowl. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
Cooking Tips
To ensure even cooking, make sure the chicken pieces are similar in size.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute the jasmine rice with brown rice or quinoa if desired. For a vegetarian option, use tofu instead of chicken.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Feel free to add additional vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for more nutrition.
Cook techniques
Marinating the Chicken
Marinate the chicken for maximum flavor. Combining sesame oil, lime juice, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder creates a well-rounded taste, while the cornstarch helps achieve a crispy exterior when cooked.
Stir-Frying the Chicken
Cooking the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat ensures even browning and cooking. Keep the chicken in a single layer for optimal searing.
Thickening the Sauce
After adding the sauce to the cooked chicken, allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly, allowing it to coat the chicken evenly.
Preparing the Creamy Drizzle
Mixing mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice creates a smooth and spicy sauce that enhances the flavors of the bowl. Adjust the sriracha to heat preference.
Assembling the Bowls
Layering cooked jasmine rice with assorted toppings not only looks appealing but also combines textures and flavors in each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the completed bowls for an extra burst of brightness and flavor. Lime wedges are great for this purpose.
FAQ
Can I use chicken with skin?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken, but it may not be as tender or absorb the marinade flavors as well as boneless skinless options.
What can I substitute for sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use vegetable oil, though this will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh to create a vegetarian version of the dish.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To reduce spiciness, use less chili crisp and sriracha or opt for a milder sauce. To increase heat, add more sriracha or use spicier sauces.
Can this dish be meal-prepped?
Absolutely! Cook and assemble the ingredients in advance. Store the components separately to maintain freshness, and combine when ready to eat.
Conclusion
This chicken bowl recipe combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures, offering a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The marinated chicken, coated in a spicy and tangy sauce, pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice and fresh vegetables. The creamy sriracha drizzle adds an extra layer of richness, making this dish a fantastic choice for any occasion.
Spicy Tofu Bowl
Substitute the chicken with cubed firm tofu, marinate, and cook similarly for a vegetarian option. Use the same sauce and toppings for a delicious tofu bowl.
Quinoa Power Bowl
Replace jasmine rice with cooked quinoa for a nutrient-dense version. The quinoa will complement the other ingredients and add a unique texture.
Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl
Incorporate a peanut sauce instead of the chili crisp sauce for a different flavor profile. Top with crushed peanuts for added crunch.
Veggie-Loaded Grain Bowl
Add a variety of sautéed or roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and broccoli to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the bowl.
Asian Noodle Bowl
Switch out rice for cooked udon or rice noodles. Toss them with the chicken and sauce for a delightful noodle experience.
Grilled Pineapple and Chicken Bowl
Add grilled pineapple pieces to the bowl for a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with the savory elements of the dish.
