Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce

This vibrant and flavorful dish combines juicy chicken glazed in a spicy honey-ginger sauce with fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a rich, creamy Yum Yum sauce. It’s a perfect harmony of sweet, spicy, and savory, all in one bowl — ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious contrast of sweet honey and spicy chili paste
• Quick and easy to make in under 40 minutes
• Highly customizable with your favorite veggies or protein
• Meal-prep friendly for busy weekdays
• A guaranteed crowd-pleaser with restaurant-quality flavors

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Tamari or soy sauce
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Black pepper
• Orange juice
• Honey
• Chili paste
• Fresh ginger, chopped
• Garlic, chopped

For Serving

• Cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
• Sliced cucumber
• Sliced avocado
• Kimchi
• Fried wontons or crispy toppings

For the Yum Yum Sauce

• Olive oil mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Seasoned salt
• Cayenne pepper

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the chicken by tossing it with tamari and orange juice on a baking sheet. Season with black pepper and sprinkle lightly with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes.
3. Make the honey-ginger sauce by whisking together tamari, orange juice, honey, chili paste, garlic, and ginger.
4. Coat the chicken with two-thirds of the sauce and return it to the oven for 5 more minutes. For crispier edges, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.
5. Mix the Yum Yum sauce in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust cayenne or salt to taste.
6. Assemble the bowls: Add rice to a bowl, top with chicken, cucumber, avocado, kimchi, and wontons. Drizzle Yum Yum sauce over the top and serve.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh
• Low-carb option: Use cauliflower rice
• Add more heat: Mix in sriracha or red pepper flakes
• Different grains: Try quinoa or soba noodles
• Extra veggies: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or steamed broccoli

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep components separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Warm chicken and rice in the microwave or stovetop. Add fresh veggies and sauce when serving

FAQs

What is Yum Yum sauce?

A creamy, tangy sauce made from mayo, ketchup, Worcestershire, and spices, often served at Japanese steakhouses.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare all components in advance and store separately for easy assembly later.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What can I substitute for chili paste?

Try sriracha, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes.

How can I make this vegetarian?

Use tofu or tempeh and ensure sauces and toppings are vegetarian-friendly.

Can I freeze the chicken?

Yes, cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What’s the best rice to use?

Jasmine or basmati rice works best, but any type will do.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Don’t overbake. Broil briefly at the end just to caramelize the sauce.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or greens make great additions.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a kick, but you can adjust the chili paste for more or less heat.

Conclusion

Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce are a powerhouse of flavor and texture. With sweet heat, creamy dressing, and endless ways to customize, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep on rotation. Perfect for casual dinners or meal prepping for the week.

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