Sticky Korean Fried Chicken and Rice Bowls

Sticky Korean Fried Chicken and Rice Bowls are a bold, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines crispy air-fried chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, a spicy-sweet Korean-style sauce, and tangy pickled cucumbers. This meal prep-friendly recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a healthier, home-cooked form. Whether you’re preparing your meals for the week or making dinner for the family, these bowls are guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together a delightful balance of textures and flavors: the crispy air-fried chicken, sticky and spicy gochujang sauce, and cool, crunchy pickled cucumbers. It’s not only packed with flavor but also convenient for meal prep, making it perfect for those who want to eat delicious, balanced meals throughout the week. Using an air fryer and healthier ingredient alternatives, this version offers a lighter take on Korean fried chicken without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Main Components:

• 4 cups jasmine rice

• 1½ lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Chicken Seasoning:

• 4 teaspoons garlic powder

• 4 teaspoons ground paprika

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 2 tablespoons corn starch

• 1 teaspoon pink Himalayan salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Sticky Korean Sauce:

• ¼ cup Tamari sauce (or soy sauce)

• ¼ cup water

• 60 grams keto honey substitute (e.g., Wholesome Yum)

• 60 grams gochujang hot pepper paste

• 3 tablespoons Swerve brown sugar substitute

• 2 teaspoons ground ginger

Pickled Cucumbers:

• 2 cups Persian cucumbers, sliced

• 2 tablespoons Tamari sauce (or soy sauce)

• 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar

• ½ tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

• ½ tablespoon white sesame seeds

Optional Toppings:

• Green onions

• Red pepper flakes

• White sesame seeds

Directions

1. Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, flour, corn starch, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken in the seasoning mix until evenly coated.

2. Air Fry the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Add half of the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 17 minutes, flipping a few times during cooking. Repeat with the remaining chicken.

3. Cook the Rice: While the first batch of chicken is cooking, begin cooking the jasmine rice using a rice cooker or stovetop according to package instructions.

4. Pickle the Cucumbers: In a separate bowl, mix sliced cucumbers with Tamari sauce, rice vinegar, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, garlic salt, and sesame seeds. Let them marinate while the rest of the dish is prepared.

5. Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine Tamari, water, keto honey substitute, gochujang paste, Swerve brown sugar, and ground ginger. Bring to a boil while whisking, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened.

6. Coat the Chicken: Once all chicken is cooked, add it to the sauce in the saucepan. Stir until all pieces are evenly coated.

7. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the jasmine rice among four containers. Top each with a generous portion of sauced chicken and pickled cucumbers. Add green onions, red pepper flakes, or sesame seeds for garnish, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs: For a juicier result, substitute chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.

• Add vegetables: Include steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, or sautéed mushrooms to boost nutrition.

• Spice level adjustment: Reduce or increase the amount of gochujang and red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level.

• Swap rice: Use cauliflower rice or brown rice for a low-carb or whole grain option.

• Make it vegan: Use tofu instead of chicken and substitute the honey alternative with maple syrup or agave.

Storage/Reheating

Store each bowl in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1–2 minutes or until heated through. The chicken retains its flavor well, and the sauce helps keep it moist. The pickled cucumbers are best served cold and can be stored separately if preferred.

FAQs

Can I use regular honey and brown sugar?

Yes, traditional honey and brown sugar can be used if you’re not following a low-carb or keto diet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use Tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I bake the chicken instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, bake the chicken at 425°F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked and crispy.

What can I substitute for gochujang?

Sriracha or a mix of chili paste and a little sugar can work in a pinch, though the flavor won’t be quite the same.

How do I know when the sauce is thick enough?

It should lightly coat the back of a spoon. It will also continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Are pickled cucumbers necessary?

They add a nice contrast and brightness to the dish, but you can omit or replace them with a fresh cucumber salad if desired.

Can I freeze the chicken?

Yes, the cooked chicken in sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste with a rich, slightly sweet, and spicy flavor, essential to Korean cuisine.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it is ideal for meal prep. Assemble in containers and store in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can pan-fry the chicken in a bit of oil or bake it in the oven for a similar result.

Conclusion

Sticky Korean Fried Chicken and Rice Bowls offer the perfect blend of spice, sweetness, and savoriness, all layered over soft jasmine rice with a refreshing touch of pickled cucumbers. This recipe is a satisfying and healthier take on a Korean favorite, perfect for meal prep or a flavorful homemade dinner. Easy to customize and even easier to enjoy, it’s a go-to for anyone seeking bold flavors and balanced nutrition in one bowl.