This Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowl features juicy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy honey glaze. Served on a bed of fluffy rice with fresh veggies, it’s a colorful meal!
The best part? You can adjust the heat to make it just right for you! I love adding extra veggies for a crunch. It’s not just tasty; it’s a meal that comes together quickly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless thighs. They’re juicy and cook well with the honey glaze. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts too, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they can dry out quicker.
Hot Honey: If you don’t have hot honey, simply mix regular honey with a pinch of chili flakes. Adjust the spice depending on your preference. You can even add sriracha for a more intense kick!
Sweet Potatoes: These add a nice sweetness. If you want another option, try butternut squash or regular potatoes for a different flavor. They all work beautifully.
Quinoa: This grain is perfect for a nutty flavor and good protein. If you need a substitute, try brown rice or couscous. Both are great options!
Green Herb Dressing: This adds a fresh touch. Instead of Greek yogurt, you could use tahini or avocado for a creamy dressing without dairy. Experiment based on what you have!
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with the right steps, you can get it just right! Here’s how to make sure it’s cooked perfectly every time:
- Start with a preheated skillet; it helps to achieve that nice sear. Medium-high heat works well.
- Sear the chicken thighs for about 4-5 minutes on each side without moving them. This allows that golden crust to form.
- For extra flavor, add the hot honey glaze in the last few minutes of cooking. This makes it caramelize and stick to the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Following these tips will give you tender, juicy chicken every time!
Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons hot honey (you can make it by mixing honey with chili flakes)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks or fries
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking quinoa)
For the Bowl Assembly:
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
For the Green Herb Dressing (optional):
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water to thin if needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 30-35 minutes for cooking. In less than an hour, you’ll have a hearty, delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato chunks with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they get golden brown and caramelized.
2. Cook the Quinoa:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, get your quinoa ready. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Once it’s fluffy, give it a quick fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. Make the Hot Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the hot honey, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be the glaze for your chicken that adds that sweet and spicy kick!
4. Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C). In the last 2 minutes, brush the hot honey glaze over the chicken so it can caramelize beautifully.
5. Prepare the Green Herb Dressing (Optional):
If you’re making the dressing, blend together the Greek yogurt, chopped parsley, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt and pepper until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
To put everything together, divide the cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top each bowl with roasted sweet potatoes, fresh arugula, shredded purple cabbage, and glazed chicken. Finish it off by sprinkling crumbled feta and chopped parsley on top. Don’t forget the green herb dressing if you made it!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s warm and enjoy the lovely mix of sweet, spicy, fresh, and tangy flavors in every bite!
This Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is not just a feast for the eyes with its colorful ingredients but also a delicious and healthy meal that’s quick enough for any night of the week!
FAQ for Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Yes, you can absolutely use chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken breasts may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like more heat, consider adding extra chili flakes to the hot honey or drizzling with your favorite hot sauce. You can also sauté sliced jalapeños with the chicken for an additional kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken with roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu cubes for a delicious vegetarian version. You can also add more veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini, for additional flavor and texture!
