by: admindz

Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce

Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce

Okay, friends, let me tell you—this recipe has me seriously pumped! The bright zing of ginger paired with that perfect hit of honey-spiced heat is an absolute flavor party in your mouth. And then, just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, the creamy, tangy Yum Yum sauce swoops in to tie everything together like a magic little bow. I honestly can’t wait for you to make this because it’s one of those dishes that’s quick enough for a weeknight but exciting enough to become an instant favorite. Trust me, once you try it, you’re going to keep coming back to it again and again.

Quick Facts

  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 cup cooked jasmine or basmati rice
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber or sliced radish (for crunch)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

For the Sauce / Garnish (Yum Yum Sauce):

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2–3 tsp water (to thin as needed)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

How I Make It

Step 1:

Start by preparing the Yum Yum sauce so the flavors can meld while you cook. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and sugar. Add water a teaspoon at a time until the sauce is creamy but easy to drizzle. Set it aside in the fridge.

Step 2:

Heat your oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Toss in the chicken pieces and let them brown up evenly—no overcrowding! You want a nice golden crust on each piece. After about 5 minutes, add the minced garlic and grated ginger and give everything a stir as the aroma starts to blossom.

Step 3:

Mix in the honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and rice vinegar. Lower the heat slightly and let the sauce bubble gently, thickening and glazing the chicken like a spicy-sweet dream. This usually takes another 5 to 7 minutes. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness to your liking.

Step 4:

While the chicken simmers, fluff your cooked rice with a fork and prep your crunchy veggies—shredded carrots and crisp cucumber or radishes add great texture and color here.

Step 5:

When the chicken is glossy and cooked through (should reach 165°F internally), assemble your bowls: a bed of rice, generous spoonfuls of spicy honey-ginger chicken, and vibrant veggies on the side.

Step 6:

Drizzle a good dollop of that creamy Yum Yum sauce over the top, scatter sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a bit of extra flair, and you’re ready to dig in!

Variations & Tips

  • Swap chicken thighs for shrimp or tofu to change up the protein.
  • Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies and crunch.
  • Make the dish less spicy by reducing or omitting the red pepper flakes.
  • Use honey garlic sauce instead if you want to keep it sweet and mild.
  • Double the Yum Yum sauce for dipping veggies on the side—it’s addictive!
  • Cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor.

How I Like to Serve It

This bowl is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner when you want something that feels special but doesn’t take forever. It’s also fantastic for meal prep—just pack everything separately and bring the Yum Yum sauce on the side. When spring comes around, I love swapping in fresh cucumber and radishes for a crisp, garden-fresh vibe that balances the spicy-sweet chicken beautifully.

Notes

  • Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently so the sauce doesn’t separate.
  • You can substitute mayo in Yum Yum sauce with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Closing: Every time I make these bowls, the juicy, sweet heat paired with that creamy sauce reminds me why simple ingredients and bold flavors always win in my kitchen.