If you love bold flavors and easy-to-make meals, this Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowl with Yum Yum Sauce is about to become your new favorite! Packed with tender, caramelized chicken, a sweet and spicy glaze, and a creamy, tangy sauce, this dish is the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable with fresh toppings that add crunch and texture. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this bowl is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
The first time I made this, my husband took one bite, looked at me, and said, “We need to have this every week.” That was all the validation I needed! Now, it’s a go-to dinner in our house. The combination of sticky-sweet chicken, creamy Yum Yum sauce, and crisp veggies creates the most satisfying meal. Even my little ones, who typically shy away from spicy food, love it (especially with an extra drizzle of the Yum Yum sauce!). Every time I serve this, there’s not a single bite left—always a sign of a winning recipe!
Why This Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowl?
- Incredible Flavor: The perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory.
- Quick & Easy: Simple steps and minimal prep time make this a great weeknight meal.
- Customizable: Swap out toppings, adjust spice levels, or use your favorite protein.
- Better Than Takeout: Homemade, fresh ingredients make this dish healthier and tastier than restaurant versions!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 680g (1 ½ lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp + 80ml (⅓ cup) tamari or soy sauce (divided)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Black pepper, to taste
- 30ml (2 tbsp) orange juice
- 85g (¼ cup) honey
- 30–45g (2–3 tbsp) chili paste
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
For Serving:
- 3–4 cups cooked rice
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced avocado
- Kimchi
- Fried wontons
For the Yum Yum Sauce:
- 80ml (⅓ cup) olive oil mayo
- 30ml (2 tbsp) ketchup
- 15ml (1 tbsp) Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 220°C (425°F) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the chicken.
Prepare & Bake the Chicken:
- Place the chicken on a large baking sheet and toss it with 1 tbsp of tamari and 1 tbsp of orange juice. Season with black pepper.
- Lightly coat the chicken with cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) and toss gently.
- Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes.
Make the Sauce:
- While the chicken bakes, whisk together the remaining ⅓ cup tamari, 2 tbsp orange juice, honey, chili paste, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
Finish Cooking the Chicken:
- After 15 minutes of baking, pour two-thirds of the sauce over the chicken and toss to coat.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes or until fully cooked.
- Switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes to lightly char the edges.
- Drizzle with the remaining sauce before serving, if desired.
Prepare the Yum Yum Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayo, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, and cayenne pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls.
- Slice the baked chicken and place it over the rice.
- Top with sliced cucumber, avocado, kimchi, and crispy fried wontons.
- Drizzle generously with Yum Yum Sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes:
- Protein Swap: You can use tofu, shrimp, or beef instead of chicken.
- Heat Level: Adjust the chili paste to make it milder or spicier.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for the best texture.
- Serving Ideas: Serve with a side of miso soup or a fresh Asian slaw for a complete meal.
This Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowl is a must-try for anyone who loves big flavors and comforting meals. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of goodness—give it a try, and it might just become a new favorite in your home too!