This Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is a fun mix of spicy and sweet! With juicy chicken coated in hot honey, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s a tasty meal that’s hard to resist.
Seriously, who doesn’t love a little kick in their dinner? I often make extra so I can enjoy it for lunch the next day! Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy days.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using chicken thighs for their juicy flavor. If you prefer, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work too. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly!
Honey: The star of the hot honey. If you’re looking for a sugar substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup could do the trick, although they may alter the flavor slightly.
Hot Sauce: Choose your favorite hot sauce to customize the heat level. Sriracha, Frank’s RedHot, or even chili paste can work well. For milder spice, try a sweet chili sauce.
Sweet Potatoes: Packed with nutrients, they add natural sweetness. You can swap them for regular potatoes or even cauliflower for a low-carb option. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Quinoa: This adds a nice texture and protein. If you don’t have quinoa, brown rice or couscous are good substitutes!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to the right temperature is key for juicy results. Here are my tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t rush! Cooking at medium-high heat allows for browning while keeping the inside juicy. If you find the chicken browning too quickly, lower the heat.
- Glazing with the hot honey sauce in the final minute adds flavor while preventing the chicken from drying out.
These tips will help you nail the perfect chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure with this easy hot honey chicken bowl.
Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1-2 tsp hot sauce (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into sticks or cubes
- 1 cup fresh arugula or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting sweet potatoes)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Optional creamy dressing (like a herb yogurt or ranch dressing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes for cooking. You’ll be enjoying your vibrant and flavorful Hot Honey Chicken Bowls in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks or cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and black pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through cooking for even tenderness and a lovely caramelized edge!
2. Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, mix the hot honey sauce. In a small bowl, combine honey, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the heat to your liking, and set it aside for later.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re cooked through and a nice golden brown on the outside. To check that they’re done, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Add the Hot Honey Sauce:
In the last minute of cooking, brush the hot honey sauce over the chicken, letting it glaze and get a lovely shine. This will add that sweet, spicy flavor we’re aiming for!
5. Assemble Your Bowls:
To put your bowls together, start with a lovely layer of cooked quinoa as the base. Then, artfully arrange the roasted sweet potatoes, sliced chicken thighs, a handful of fresh arugula, and a few shavings of shredded red cabbage right on top.
6. Finishing Touches:
Drizzle some of the extra hot honey sauce over the top or add more hot sauce if you like it extra spicy. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of flavor.
7. Optional Creamy Dressing:
If you’re feeling it, drizzle on a bit of your favorite creamy dressing, like a herb yogurt or ranch, to add richness to the dish.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your hot honey chicken bowls warm and enjoy this beautiful mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors! Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner any day of the week.
FAQ for Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as breasts may cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re perfectly cooked and juicy.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of hot sauce in the honey sauce to just 1 teaspoon or omit it entirely. For more heat, feel free to add extra hot sauce or use a spicy honey for a kick!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and sweet potatoes ahead of time. Cook them and then refrigerate them in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Just reheat them before serving and freshen up the dish with a drizzle of the hot honey sauce!
What Are Good Substitutes for Quinoa?
If you don’t have quinoa, brown rice, couscous, or even cauliflower rice are great alternatives. Each will provide a different flavor and texture, but they’ll all work beautifully in this bowl!
