Poke bowls have surged in popularity across the UK, combining fresh ingredients and vibrant flavours into a single, nutritious meal.
Originating from Hawaii, poke bowls typically feature cubed raw fish, but they have evolved to include various proteins, including chicken. This blog will guide you through crafting a delicious chicken poke bowl, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Packed with healthy ingredients, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for plenty of customisation to suit your taste.
How to Cook Chicken Poke Bowl?
Ingredients for Your Chicken Poke Bowl
To make a delightful chicken poke bowl, gather the following ingredients. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your preferences or the number of servings you need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g chicken breast (skinless and boneless)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl:
- 200g sushi rice (or brown rice)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- Radishes, thinly sliced (optional)
- Spring onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Nori sheets, cut into strips (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Pickled ginger
- Edamame beans
- Chilli flakes or sriracha for heat
Preparing the Chicken
Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well to create a marinade.
Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes and add it to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with cling film and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum flavour.
While the chicken is marinating, rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice.
Cook the rice according to package instructions, usually boiling in water for about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and allow it to cool slightly.
Cooking the Chicken
After marinating, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil to the pan. Once hot, add the marinated chicken cubes, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Remove the chicken from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Assembling the Poke Bowl
Now comes the fun part: assembling your poke bowl! Begin by placing a generous scoop of sushi rice at the bottom of your bowl. Layer the cooked chicken on top, then add your desired vegetables: avocado slices, cucumber, carrot, and radishes.
For added texture and flavour, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped spring onions over the top. If you like, add strips of nori and any optional toppings you prefer, such as pickled ginger or edamame beans.
To enhance the flavours even further, consider drizzling some extra soy sauce or sriracha on top. This gives your poke bowl that extra zing and makes it even more delicious.
Enjoying Your Chicken Poke Bowl
Your chicken poke bowl is now ready to enjoy! This dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavour and nutrients.
It’s a perfect meal for any time of the day and can easily be tailored to suit different dietary preferences. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a solo meal, this poke bowl is sure to impress.
For more delicious chicken recipes and variations of poke bowls, visit thechickenrecipes.co.uk.
Conclusion
Cooking a chicken poke bowl is a straightforward and rewarding culinary experience. With fresh ingredients and a simple marinade, you can create a nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and flavourful.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant dish to impress your guests, this chicken poke bowl is the perfect choice.
So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this delightful dish that brings a taste of Hawaii right to your kitchen!