Hot Honey Chicken Bowls

Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a sweet, spicy, and savory dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. Juicy, seasoned chicken is drizzled with a sticky hot honey glaze and served over a bed of rice with roasted vegetables for a balanced and flavorful meal. This customizable recipe is easy to prepare and will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavors: Sweet honey paired with spicy chili makes for an irresistible glaze.
• Well-balanced: Includes protein, grains, and veggies for a complete meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your preferences.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal effort.
• Meal prep-friendly: Perfect for make-ahead lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the chicken:
  • 1 pound chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• For the hot honey glaze:
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
• For the bowls:
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
  • 2 cups roasted vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, or sweet potatoes)
  • Optional toppings: avocado slices, green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the hot honey glaze

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the bowls

1. Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with the cooked chicken, roasted vegetables, and optional toppings.
3. Drizzle the hot honey glaze generously over the chicken and vegetables.

Step 4: Serve

Serve immediately with additional hot honey glaze on the side for dipping or extra spice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas.
• Grain swap: Use quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
• Spicy kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the hot honey glaze.
• Additional veggies: Include roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or brussels sprouts for variety.
• Cheesy addition: Top with crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for a creamy element.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and roasted vegetables separately from the rice. Thaw and reheat before assembling bowls.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best?

Both chicken breasts and thighs work well, but thighs tend to stay juicier during cooking.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Increase the hot sauce and red pepper flakes in the hot honey glaze for more heat.

Can I use store-bought hot honey?

Yes! If you have pre-made hot honey, you can skip making the glaze and simply drizzle it over the cooked chicken.

What’s the best way to roast vegetables?

Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use a plant-based butter alternative for the glaze to keep it dairy-free.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your hot sauce and any toppings are gluten-free.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Cook the chicken over medium-high heat and remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken, glaze, and rice ahead of time. Store them separately and assemble the bowls just before serving.

What’s the best rice for this dish?

Jasmine rice, basmati rice, or brown rice all work well, but any cooked grain can be used.

Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken in the spices and grill until fully cooked for a smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a flavorful and easy way to enjoy a well-balanced meal. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory elements makes this dish a standout choice for dinner or meal prep. Customize it with your favorite veggies and toppings, and enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Try it today for a quick and wholesome meal!

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