Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with bold flavor? These Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce are a game-changer. Sweet, spicy, and tangy chicken paired with fresh veggies and creamy sauce—what more could you ask for? It’s the perfect combination of heat and sweetness, making it an instant family favorite.
Why You’ll Love Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce
This bowl is the perfect fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and customizable comfort food. Here’s why this dish should be your next go-to recipe:
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Quick and easy—ready in under 35 minutes
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High in protein, low in hassle
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Versatile—great for meal prep or dinner
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Balanced with protein, grains, and veggies
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That Yum Yum Sauce? Pure creamy perfection
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken:
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1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
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3 tbsp honey
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2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium if desired)
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp sriracha or chili paste (adjust to taste)
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1 tbsp sesame oil or olive oil
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Salt & pepper to taste
🍚 the Bowls:
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2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
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1 cup shredded carrots
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1 cup sliced cucumbers
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½ red cabbage, thinly sliced
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1 avocado, sliced
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2 green onions, chopped
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Sesame seeds, for garnish
the Yum Yum Sauce:
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½ cup mayonnaise
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1 tbsp ketchup
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp paprika
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1 tbsp water (to thin)
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½ tsp sugar (optional)
Essential Kitchen Tools
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Non-stick skillet or wok
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Mixing bowls
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Rice cooker or pot
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Knife and cutting board
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Measuring spoons
How to Make Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce
1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, sriracha, and sesame oil. Add chicken pieces, coat well, and let marinate for 10–15 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let the sauce thicken slightly into a glaze. Remove from heat.
3: Make the Yum Yum Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together all Yum Yum Sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust water for desired consistency. Chill in the fridge while assembling bowls.
4: Assemble the Bowls
In each bowl, layer:
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A scoop of rice
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Cooked honey-ginger chicken
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Fresh veggies (carrots, cucumbers, cabbage, avocado)
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A generous drizzle of Yum Yum Sauce
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Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions
Customize Your Chicken Bowl
Bowl Variations:
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Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
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Add edamame or steamed broccoli for extra greens.
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Spice it up with extra sriracha or chili flakes.
Protein Swaps:
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Try shrimp, tofu, or tempeh instead of chicken.
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Use ground chicken or turkey for a twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 520
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Protein: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 42g
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Fat: 22g
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Fiber: 6g
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Sugar: 12g
Tips for Success
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Use thighs for juicier chicken, or breasts for leaner cuts.
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Marinate longer (up to 1 hour) for deeper flavor.
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Store sauce separately if meal prepping to keep the veggies fresh.
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For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt in place of mayo for the Yum Yum Sauce.
Conclusion
These Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce are everything you need in a satisfying, nutritious meal—spicy, sweet, crunchy, creamy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping meals ahead, or just treating yourself, this bowl will never disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! All elements can be made 2–3 days in advance. Store chicken, rice, veggies, and sauce separately in airtight containers.
❓ Is this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free. Always double-check condiment labels.
❓ Can I freeze Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken?
You can freeze the chicken (cooked or uncooked/marinated), but it’s best to add fresh veggies and sauce upon reheating for optimal texture.
❓ What does Yum Yum Sauce taste like?
It’s creamy, slightly sweet, with subtle tang and a touch of umami—pairs perfectly with spicy dishes like this one!
❓ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili garlic sauce to both the chicken marinade and Yum Yum Sauce.
