Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce

There’s something magical about a meal that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. These Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls do just that, offering a satisfying combination of tender, flavorful chicken, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of creamy, tangy Yum Yum sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or meal-prep option.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

This dish is inspired by Asian flavors, with a bold ginger kick, a touch of honey sweetness, and just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. The Yum Yum sauce—a popular Japanese-inspired condiment—adds a creamy richness that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, delicious flavors – The combination of honey, ginger, garlic, and spice creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Easy to customize – Swap out the vegetables, adjust the spice level, or serve it with different grains like quinoa or brown rice.
• Great for meal prep – Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy flavorful lunches all week.
• Healthy & satisfying – Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish is both nourishing and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Bowl:

• 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
• 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, sliced

For the Yum Yum Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon honey

How to Make Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to mix. Add the diced chicken to the bowl and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb. If you have extra time, marinating for up to an hour will deepen the flavor even more.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken (discarding excess marinade). Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Pour this over the chicken and stir well. This helps thicken the sauce slightly, giving it a glossy, delicious coating. Let it cook for another 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Yum Yum Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, whisk together all the Yum Yum sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—if you like it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Start by dividing the cooked rice into serving bowls. Top with the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, sliced bell peppers, julienned carrots, and cucumber slices. Drizzle with Yum Yum sauce, then sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a finishing touch.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

These bowls are best enjoyed fresh, while the chicken is still warm and the sauce is creamy. Serve immediately and mix everything together before digging in!

Helpful Tips

• For extra crispy chicken, coat the diced chicken lightly in cornstarch before frying—it will give the pieces a slightly crispy edge.
• Want more heat? Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Swap the protein – Try this recipe with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a delicious variation.
• Use leftover rice – Day-old rice works best for bowls, as it holds its shape and absorbs the flavors beautifully.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 2-3 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-fry
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
• Diet: Dairy-Free

Notes

• Adjust the spice level – If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. If you love heat, add extra or mix in a teaspoon of Sriracha.
• Make it gluten-free – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep this recipe gluten-free.
• Yum Yum sauce consistency – If your sauce is too thick, add a teaspoon of water or rice vinegar to thin it out. If it’s too thin, mix in a little more mayonnaise.
• For extra flavor – Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 1 hour) to enhance the ginger and garlic notes.
• Serving suggestion – Try serving with a side of miso soup or a light cucumber salad for a complete meal.
• Meal prep tip – Keep the rice, chicken, and veggies separate in containers to make reheating easier and prevent sogginess. Add the Yum Yum sauce just before serving for the best taste.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the Yum Yum sauce separate to prevent the rice from becoming too soggy.

Reheating:

Warm the chicken and rice in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it from drying out.

Freezing:

While the chicken and rice can be frozen for up to 3 months, it’s best to add fresh vegetables and sauce after thawing for the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes! It’s a great meal-prep option. Store everything separately and assemble just before eating for the freshest taste.

Is Yum Yum sauce spicy?

Not traditionally, but you can add spice by mixing in a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds extra fiber and nutrients, making the dish even healthier.

What vegetables go well with this bowl?

Aside from broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, you can also try snap peas, zucchini, shredded cabbage, or edamame.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowl, you might also enjoy:

• Crispy Chicken Katsu

• Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowls

Conclusion

These Spicy Honey Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce are a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. With a little prep and simple ingredients, you can enjoy a meal that’s not only packed with flavor but also nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or prepping it for the week, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.

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