Sesame Chicken Bowls

Sesame Chicken Bowls are a flavorful, comforting meal that brings together tender chicken, a sweet-and-savory sesame sauce, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables—all in one satisfying bowl. Inspired by Asian takeout favorites, this dish delivers bold flavors while remaining easy enough to prepare at home. The balance of salty soy sauce, nutty sesame oil, gentle sweetness, and aromatic garlic and ginger makes every bite irresistible.

What makes sesame chicken bowls truly special is their versatility. You can customize them with your favorite grains, vegetables, or spice level, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even casual entertaining. They offer the comfort of a takeout-style dish with the freshness and control of homemade cooking.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s packed with flavor, comes together quickly, and feels both comforting and wholesome. The sesame sauce is rich and glossy, coating the chicken perfectly, while the bowl format allows for endless customization. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but still balanced and nourishing.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Better than takeout and made at home
• Balanced meal with protein, grains, and vegetables
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Family-friendly and customizable
• Bold, satisfying flavors with simple ingredients

This is a must-try dish if you love Asian-inspired meals that are easy, delicious, and versatile.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired / Chinese-Style
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 480–520 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sesame Sauce

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ cup water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Bowls

• 3 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
• 1 cup steamed broccoli
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Cooking Directions

1. Toss chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook chicken until golden and fully cooked; remove and set aside.
4. Whisk all sesame sauce ingredients together.
5. Pour sauce into skillet and simmer until thickened.
6. Add chicken back to skillet and toss to coat.
7. Assemble bowls with rice, vegetables, and sesame chicken.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep the Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and coat with cornstarch and seasoning.
2. Cook the Chicken: Sauté until crispy on the outside and cooked through.
3. Make the Sauce: Whisk soy sauce, sweetener, sesame oil, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Simmer sauce until glossy and thick.
5. Combine: Return chicken to the pan and coat evenly.
6. Assemble Bowls: Layer rice, veggies, chicken, and garnish.

Save it

How to Serve Sesame Chicken Bowls

• Serve warm in individual bowls
• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions
• Add chili oil or sriracha for heat
• Pair with cucumber salad or spring rolls

Recipe Tips

• Cut chicken evenly for consistent cooking
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness
• Stir sauce continuously to prevent lumps
• Toast sesame seeds for extra flavor
• Don’t overcook chicken to keep it juicy

Variations (Detailed)

Spicy Sesame Chicken Bowls

Add chili garlic sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.

Teriyaki-Style Version

Replace sesame sauce with teriyaki sauce and pineapple.

Vegetarian Version

Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken.

Low-Carb Option

Serve over cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage.

Peanut Sesame Bowl

Add a spoonful of peanut butter to the sauce for richness.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Store in airtight containers
• Keeps well for 3–4 days

Freezer

• Freeze chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat gently

Meal Prep Tip

Store rice, chicken, and veggies separately for best texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Saucepan (optional)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rice cooker or pot

Conclusion

Sesame Chicken Bowls are the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and convenience. With tender chicken coated in a glossy sesame sauce and paired with rice and fresh vegetables, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results right at home. Easy to customize and ideal for meal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.