Name: Saucy Chicken and Rice Bowls with Fresh Cilantro
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, divided; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch fresh ginger, grated (about 1 tbsp); 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari); 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional); 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp cold water; 1.5 cups long-grain white rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati); 3 cups water or chicken broth (for rice); 1/2 tsp salt (for rice); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped; Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1
Rinse rice thoroughly under cold water until clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice, 3 cups water/broth, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
3
Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to the skillet. Cook chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4
Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine. Return seared chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low for 10-12 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
5
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 2 tbsp cold water to create a slurry. Uncover skillet, stir in the slurry, and continue to simmer, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
6
Serve the saucy chicken over fluffy rice. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro and sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately.

💡 Notes

For a gluten-free meal, ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce. Feel free to add steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers during the last few minutes of simmering. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Saucy Chicken and Rice Bowls with Fresh Cilantro: Your New Weeknight Go-To

Saucy Chicken and Rice Bowls with Fresh Cilantro

📝 Ingredients

👩‍🍳 Instructions

💡 Notes

🥗 Nutrition (per serving)

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