Name: Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed (about 3 cups); 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons honey; 1 Tablespoon tamari sauce or soy sauce; 1 Tablespoon tapioca starch or cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 12 ounces chopped broccoli florets (approximately 5 cups); 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 3 Persian cucumbers or 1 English cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced or ribboned; 2 medium carrots, peeled and ribboned or thinly sliced; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 3 Tablespoons unsweetened plain Greek yogurt (dairy or vegan); 2 Tablespoons avocado oil mayo; 2 Tablespoons ketchup; 2 1/2 teaspoons tamari sauce or soy sauce; 2 teaspoons honey; 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1-3 teaspoons sriracha (optional, for color and a little kick); 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 medium avocado, thinly sliced or cubed; 2 scallions, thinly sliced, as garnish; Sesame seeds, as garnish; Avocado oil cooking spray (for greasing baking sheet)

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 4 reviews

If you are looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and a wholesome balance of ingredients, the Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe is an absolute must-try. This bowl brings together tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a luscious homemade Yum Yum sauce, crisp fresh veggies, and nutty brown rice, making for a mouthwatering meal that feels both comforting and fresh. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful dish to impress your friends, these bowls effortlessly deliver on taste and ease, with every ingredient playing a delightful role.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl in the center holds raw light pink pieces of chicken with a smooth texture. Above the bowl sits a whole dark avocado with rough skin. To the right are fresh green scallions with long white bases and a small jar of dark brown tamari sauce. Two golden spoons with salt and pepper are beside the jar. Below is a golden spoon of light brown rice vinegar. On the left, a small white bowl contains creamy white yogurt, light yellow mayo, and red ketchup side by side. Below the bowl is a small cup of golden olive oil, a tiny metal scoop of minced garlic, and another with white tapioca starch. There is a small cup of clear honey below. At the bottom, a bag of fresh green broccoli florets with some visible water droplets is placed next to a clear plastic package of white rice. On the bottom right side are fresh bright orange carrots and a medium-dark green cucumber. Everything is placed on a wooden table with a white marbled texture in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients sets the foundation for this Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe. Each item brings a unique element to the table, from the protein-packed chicken to the crisp vegetables and that irresistible creamy sauce that steals the show.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds): Cubed into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon + 2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing chicken and roasting broccoli, adding a subtle fruity richness.
Honey (2 teaspoons): Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the savory and tangy flavors.
Tamari or soy sauce (1 tablespoon + 2 1/2 teaspoons): Provides a deep umami punch and seasoning throughout the dish.
Tapioca starch or cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps give the chicken a light, crispy coating once baked.
Fine sea salt (1 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming.
Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
Broccoli florets (12 ounces): Roasted for a tender yet slightly crunchy texture and vibrant color.
Persian or English cucumbers (3 Persian or 1 English): Thinly sliced or ribboned for fresh, crisp brightness.
Carrots (2 medium): Ribboned or thinly sliced for sweetness and crunch.
Rice vinegar (1 1/2 teaspoons total): Adds a slight tang to the pickled veggies and sauce.
Unsweetened plain Greek yogurt (3 tablespoons): Brings creamy tanginess to the Yum Yum sauce.
Avocado oil mayo (2 tablespoons): Creates a silky texture and rich mouthfeel in the sauce.
Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Offers sweetness and a subtle tomato undertone in the sauce.
Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Infuses aromatic warmth into the sauce.
Sriracha (1-3 teaspoons, optional): Adds a mild kick and lovely color contrast for those who like a little spice.
Cooked brown rice (2 cups): Provides a nutty, wholesome base that complements every bite.
Avocado (1 medium): Sliced or cubed for buttery richness and smooth texture.
Scallions (2, thinly sliced): Adds fresh, oniony brightness as a garnish.
Sesame seeds: Toasted or raw to sprinkle on top for a subtle crunch and nutty dimension.

How to Make Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 425°F. Preparing the oven early means it reaches the perfect temperature by the time you’re ready to bake, ensuring your chicken and broccoli cook evenly. Grab a nonstick rimmed baking sheet and lightly grease it with avocado oil cooking spray—this keeps everything from sticking and helps achieve a lovely roasted finish.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine your cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, honey, tamari sauce, tapioca starch, salt, and pepper. Massage it gently so every piece is coated in this flavor-packed mixture. This step is crucial because it infuses the chicken with sweet and savory notes while the starch promises a light, crispy exterior after baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

Next, toss your broccoli florets with olive oil and sea salt on the other side of the baking sheet, arranging them in an even layer for uniform roasting. The broccoli’s natural sweetness intensifies in the oven, balancing the savory chicken perfectly.

Step 4: Bake Chicken and Broccoli

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25 to 28 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, stir both the chicken and broccoli to promote even cooking and prevent any burning. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s tender, juicy, and safe to eat.

Step 5: Toss the Pickled Salad

While the chicken and broccoli roast, mix the sliced cucumbers and carrots in a bowl with salt and rice vinegar. This quick pickling step brightens the veggies, adding a refreshing tang and crisp texture that cuts through the richness of the rest of the bowl.

Step 6: Whisk the Yum Yum Sauce

In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together Greek yogurt, avocado oil mayo, ketchup, tamari sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and sriracha if using. This velvety sauce is the heart of the Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe, bringing creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy notes that tie the whole dish together beautifully.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once the chicken finishes baking, toss it gently with a portion of the Yum Yum sauce, coating each piece in that irresistible glaze. Leaving some sauce aside lets you drizzle more on top when serving, creating layers of flavor in every bite.

Step 8: Assemble the Bowls

To build each bowl, start with a base of warm brown rice, then add the sauced chicken, roasted broccoli, the pickled cucumber-carrot salad, and fresh avocado slices. Finish with a generous drizzle of Yum Yum sauce, and sprinkle scallions and sesame seeds on top for a beautiful presentation and added flavor.

How to Serve Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe

The image shows a baking sheet with two sections of food on a white marbled surface. The top half is filled with bright green roasted broccoli pieces that have a slightly crispy texture, with some edges looking browned. The bottom half has small chunks of cooked chicken that are light brown with a few darker spots, showing they are well cooked but moist. The broccoli and chicken are separated clearly and evenly spread out with no overlap. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you get to personalize and elevate your Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe. Thinly sliced scallions provide a mild onion crunch that wakes up the palate, while sesame seeds add a delightful nutty crunch. Feel free to sprinkle a little extra sriracha or a squeeze of lime for zing.

Side Dishes

This dish is filling on its own, but pairing it with light side dishes like a simple seaweed salad or steamed edamame complements it wonderfully. Choose sides that refresh without overpowering the vibrant flavors in your bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the ingredients deconstructed on a platter so guests can build their own Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe. Alternatively, stuff these components into lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or serve them over quinoa for a different grain experience. Presentation can be as colorful and customizable as you like!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken, broccoli, and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to save portions for longer, the cooked chicken and broccoli freeze well for up to 2 months. Be sure to freeze the Yum Yum sauce separately to maintain its creamy texture upon thawing.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the chicken and broccoli in a skillet or microwave until heated through, then add a touch of fresh Yum Yum sauce to revive the flavors. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and the sauce fresh.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will bring a richer flavor and stay juicy even longer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if pieces are larger or thicker.

Is there a vegan alternative for the Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegan mayo and yogurt for the sauce. Roasted vegetables and rice remain the same, making it just as delicious.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the Yum Yum sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it chilled in an airtight container and give it a stir before serving.

What if I don’t have tamari sauce or soy sauce?

If you don’t have these, coconut aminos can be a great substitute for a gluten-free and slightly sweeter option that works well in this recipe.

Is brown rice necessary, or can I use white rice?

Brown rice adds nuttiness and fiber, but white rice or other grains like quinoa or cauliflower rice work perfectly. Choose your favorite base to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

The Yum Yum Chicken Bowls Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Its harmony of textures and flavors makes it a top pick for busy nights or when you want to treat yourself to something special. I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe and discover how effortlessly it becomes a beloved staple in your meal rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!