Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce

Jump to Recipe

There’s something about spicy-sweet chicken nestled into a warm rice bowl, topped with creamy avocado and crunchy fried wontons, that just hits different. If you’re juggling work, kids, or just trying to survive another Monday (we’ve all been there), these Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce are about to become your new dinner hero.

Juicy, tender chicken glazed with a sticky, fiery honey-ginger sauce. Creamy, spicy yum yum drizzle. Cool, crisp cucumbers. It’s like your favorite takeout spot—but better, cheaper, and in fuzzy socks at home.

Why You’ll Love These Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce

One word: layers. Spicy, sweet, tangy, creamy, crunchy—these bowls have it all.
Easy cleanup. Most of the action happens on a baking sheet and in two mixing bowls. That’s it.
Meal-prep magic. Leftovers? Yes, please. These bowls reheat like a dream and can be packed for lunch.
Customizable. Picky eaters in the house? Let everyone build their own bowl. (It’s like dinner and a fun activity.)

What You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken (breasts or thighs—go with your gut)
1 tbsp + ⅓ cup tamari or soy sauce
2 tbsp orange juice
¼ cup honey
2–3 tbsp chili paste (adjust based on your heat tolerance)
1 tbsp fresh ginger, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Black pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder for light coating

For the Yum Yum Sauce:

⅓ cup olive oil mayo
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp seasoned salt
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (or more if you’re feeling bold)

For Serving:

3–4 cups cooked rice (white, brown, jasmine—follow your heart)
Sliced cucumber
Sliced avocado
Kimchi (optional, but highly recommended)
Fried wontons or crispy wonton strips

How to Make Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F. This gives the chicken that golden, caramelized edge we’re after.

2. Bake the Chicken

Toss the chicken on a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon tamari, 1 tablespoon orange juice, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a dusting of cornstarch if you’re using it. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes while we whip up that sauce.

3. Whisk the Sauce

In a bowl, mix the remaining ⅓ cup tamari, 2 tablespoons orange juice, honey, chili paste, garlic, and ginger. This spicy-sweet elixir is where the magic happens.

4. Glaze and Broil

After 30 minutes in the oven, pour about two-thirds of the sauce over the chicken. Toss it around like it just won the chicken lottery. Return it to the oven for another 5 minutes. Then, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes to get that crispy charred edge we all secretly (or not-so-secretly) love.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on the broil! Things go from golden to smoke-alarm real quick.

5. Make the Yum Yum Sauce

In a small bowl, stir together mayo, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, and cayenne. Taste and adjust if you want more heat or tang. (Warning: it’s dangerously addictive.)

6. Build Your Bowls

Start with a generous scoop of rice. Add the glazed chicken, cucumber, avocado slices, and kimchi. Sprinkle on the fried wontons and give it a drizzle—or a generous pour—of yum yum sauce.

Tips for Stress-Free Cooking

No chili paste? Sriracha or even a few red pepper flakes work in a pinch.
Meal prep idea: Make the chicken and rice ahead, then assemble bowls fresh during the week.
Vegetarian variation: Swap chicken for crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower and keep all the yum.

From My Kitchen to Yours 💛

This Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce was born on a particularly chaotic Tuesday when my fridge was full of bits and pieces—half an avocado here, a lone cucumber there. I threw everything together with leftover chicken and a quick sauce… and it became an instant hit. My kids call it “Mom’s awesome spicy bowl,” which is both flattering and totally accurate.

Now it’s a weekly staple, especially when we need something comforting, bold, and full of texture.

Close-up of Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce, served with rice, avocado, and cucumber slices. — These Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce are bursting with flavor, texture, and vibrant color—perfect for a satisfying meal.

FAQs About Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and a bit more forgiving if you forget them in the oven for a few minutes (hey, it happens).

How do I store leftovers?

Keep the chicken, rice, and toppings in separate containers if you can. It’ll last up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently and assemble bowls fresh.

Is the sauce really spicy?

It has a nice little kick, but you can easily tone it down by reducing the chili paste or bumping up the honey.

What can I use instead of fried wontons?

Crushed tortilla chips, crispy onions, or even roasted nuts can add that needed crunch.

Conclusion

These Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce are the perfect combo of spicy, sweet, creamy, and crunchy—all in one cozy bowl. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe brings comfort and excitement to the dinner table.

Give it a try and let your kitchen smell like the best kind of magic.

Explore More Flavorful Chicken Recipes

If you fell in love with the bold, sweet-and-spicy punch of these Spicy Honey-Ginger Chicken Bowls with Yum Yum Sauce, you’re going to want to keep the flavor train rolling! We’ve rounded up some of our most crave-worthy chicken dishes that pair perfectly with your new favorite bowl. Whether you’re meal-prepping, entertaining, or just need a quick fix for dinner, these recipes are calling your name:

Try these BBQ Chicken and Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls if you love hearty bowls packed with color, comfort, and Southern charm.
For a tangy twist with Asian flair, don’t miss our Thai Peanut Chicken Stir Fry—it’s quick, nutty, and oh-so-satisfying.
If you’re hooked on bold flavors, our Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Bowls offer a Mediterranean-style kick with all the cozy vibes of a bowl meal.
And for those who like their spice with a little smoky edge, check out this Sweet and Spicy Sticky Chicken recipe—it’s messy, sticky, and totally worth it.

Each of these dishes offers a new way to enjoy the magic of chicken, right from the comfort of your kitchen. Happy exploring, and don’t forget to bring your appetite!