If you’re craving a dish bursting with bold flavors and satisfying textures, you’re in for a treat with this Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls Recipe. Tender, marinated chicken thighs meet fluffy white rice and a vibrant mix of fresh veggies, all brought to life by a creamy, tangy homemade Yum Yum sauce. It’s a perfect balance of heat and comfort, ideal for busy weeknights or prepping meals ahead. Once you make this bowl a staple, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again, sharing it like a beloved secret with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, creating layers of flavor and pleasing textures that make each bite memorable. From the juicy, soy-sriracha-marinated chicken to the crisp vegetables and that luscious Yum Yum sauce, these components are simple but essential to crafting the perfect bowl.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 lb): Juicy and tender, they soak up the marinade beautifully for maximum flavor.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a salty, umami base that complements the spicy notes.
- Sriracha (1 tablespoon): Brings the signature spicy kick without overpowering the dish.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Offers a subtle sweetness that balances the heat.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Infuses a mild tang that brightens the marinade and Yum Yum sauce.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Gives a toasty, nutty aroma and depth to the chicken.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Intensifies flavor with a punch of savory freshness.
- Grated fresh ginger (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a slight zing for complexity.
- Cooked white rice (3 cups): The fluffy base that soaks up the sauce and chicken juices perfectly.
- Shredded carrots (1 cup): Adds sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- Thinly sliced cucumber (1 cup): Provides fresh coolness to balance the spiciness.
- Shredded red cabbage (1 cup): Offers a satisfying crunch and eye-catching hue.
- Sliced green onions (2): Gives a mild oniony bite and garnish pop.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon): Sprinkle on top for added texture and a nutty finish.
- For Yum Yum sauce: Mayonnaise (1/2 cup), ketchup (1 tablespoon), rice vinegar (1 tablespoon), sugar (1 tablespoon), garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon), paprika (1/2 teaspoon), and water (2 teaspoons) to thin – these come together into a creamy, tangy, lightly spicy sauce that ties the whole bowl together.
How to Make Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together soy sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a medium bowl. This marinade is the flavor powerhouse that tenderizes the chicken thighs while infusing them with a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory notes. Toss your bite-sized chicken pieces until fully coated, cover, and let them soak up the goodness for at least 15 minutes. This step sets the foundation for juicy, richly flavored chicken in every bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Yum Yum Sauce
While the chicken marinates, mix your Yum Yum sauce ingredients — mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, and water — until smooth and creamy. This sauce is the magic touch that elevates your rice bowls with its creamy texture and tangy, subtly smoky flavor. Set it aside to allow the flavors to meld while you cook your chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and develops a lightly caramelized, golden-brown exterior. This caramelization adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a slight crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the tender inside.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cooked white rice evenly among four bowls. Layer on the perfectly cooked chicken, then top with shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, shredded red cabbage, and sliced green onions for freshness and crunch. Generously drizzle with the homemade Yum Yum sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top. This finishing touch brings everything together into a bowl that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
How to Serve Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls Recipe lies in the garnishes that add texture and flavor contrast. Sesame seeds bring nuttiness and crunch, while sliced green onions contribute a gentle sharpness. For an extra hit of spice, consider sprinkling some chili flakes or adding an additional drizzle of sriracha for those who love a fiery finish.
Side Dishes
Pair these bowls with light, complementary side dishes such as steamed edamame, pickled radishes, or a simple seaweed salad. These sides enhance the Asian-inspired palate without overwhelming the flavors of the main bowl, creating a balanced and satisfying meal experience that feels complete but never heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls Recipe bowls for a gathering or meal prep, consider using colorful bowls or stacking ingredients vertically in glass jars for visual appeal. Layer the rice, chicken, vegetables, and sauce attractively so that every layer shines through. Not only will this impress guests, but it’ll also make grabbing a quick, flavorful meal a joy throughout the week.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls store wonderfully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it an excellent recipe for meal prep or busy nights where convenience is key. Just keep the sauce separate if possible to preserve its creamy texture and add it fresh when you are ready to eat.
Freezing
You can freeze components like cooked chicken and rice separately, but keep in mind that fresh vegetables lose their crunch after freezing. For best quality, freeze the chicken and rice in portioned containers and replenish fresh veggies and sauce when thawing. This way, the bowl retains its vibrant texture and freshness.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken and rice gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first. Once warm, add the fresh vegetables and drizzle with prepared Yum Yum sauce for a bowl that tastes just as vibrant as the first day.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be swapped in for a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quicker than thighs. Marinating as directed helps keep them juicy and flavorful.
Is the Yum Yum sauce dairy-free?
Yes, the Yum Yum sauce in this recipe uses mayonnaise as its base and contains no dairy, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy products.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh, marinate and cook the same way. The Yum Yum sauce and veggies pair just as well with plant-based proteins.
How spicy is the dish?
This Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls Recipe has a gentle to moderate heat level thanks to sriracha; however, you can adjust the spiciness by adding more sriracha or chili flakes if you prefer a bolder kick.
What rice works best in this bowl?
White jasmine rice is ideal for its fluffy texture and subtle fragrance, but brown rice or other varieties can also be used to boost nutrition or suit your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table all at once. The harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite go-to meal. I encourage you to give it a try — your taste buds will thank you for it!
Print
Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
These Spicy Chicken Yum Yum Rice Bowls feature tender, marinated chicken thighs cooked to perfection on the stovetop, served over fluffy white rice with crisp vegetables and a creamy, tangy homemade Yum Yum sauce. This dish offers a perfect balance of heat and comfort, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners or convenient meal prep with customizable options.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade and Cooking
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Vegetables and Garnish
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
Yum Yum Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons water (to thin)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger. Add the chicken pieces and toss well to coat evenly. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderize the meat.
- Prepare Yum Yum Sauce: While the chicken marinates, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, and water in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Set aside at room temperature.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and lightly caramelized with a slight char.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked white rice evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with the cooked chicken, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, shredded red cabbage, and sliced green onions.
- Add Sauce and Garnish: Drizzle the prepared Yum Yum sauce generously over each bowl. Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds on top. Serve the bowls warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra heat, add chili flakes or an additional drizzle of sriracha to the marinade or sauce.
- Swap chicken thighs with chicken breast or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version of this bowl.
- Jasmine or brown rice can be used instead of white rice depending on your preference or dietary needs.
