Hot Honey Chicken Bowls

This Hot Honey Chicken Bowl recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and spicy, offering a flavorful meal that can be prepared quickly. The chicken is glazed with a delightful honey hot sauce, and served over a bed of rice with crunchy veggies, creating a well-balanced dish with different textures and tastes. It’s a great meal for weeknights, easy to customize, and perfect for meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Spicy Flavor: The hot honey glaze provides a balanced mix of sweet honey and spicy heat.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be made in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the heat level to your liking.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, it’s a well-rounded meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well for meal prepping, making them an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner option.

Ingredients

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

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Honey
• Hot sauce (your choice of heat level)
• Rice (white or brown)
• Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, or any other favorite)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• Green onions for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In a small bowl, mix honey and hot sauce together. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
4. Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low, pour the hot honey sauce over the chicken, and toss to coat. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken.
5. Prepare the Rice and Veggies: While the chicken is cooking, prepare your rice according to the package instructions. Steam or sauté your vegetables until tender.
6. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice between bowls, top with the glazed chicken, and add the vegetables on the side.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with green onions and an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like more heat. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes 4 servings.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or even beef instead of chicken for a different protein option.
• Grain Alternatives: Swap the rice for quinoa, cauliflower rice, or couscous for a lighter or grain-free version.
• Vegetable Choices: Customize with any vegetables you prefer such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce or add chili powder, sriracha, or cayenne for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat the chicken and veggies in a skillet for a few minutes on low heat to keep the texture intact.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe less spicy?

To reduce the heat, use less hot sauce or substitute it with a milder sauce like barbecue or teriyaki.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just make sure to steam or sauté them before adding to the bowl.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish, but either works well.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Ensure that your hot sauce and any other seasonings or sauces are gluten-free, and serve with rice or a gluten-free grain.

What’s the best hot sauce to use?

Any hot sauce you enjoy will work. Sriracha, Frank’s RedHot, or a homemade hot sauce are all great choices.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping. Store the chicken, rice, and veggies separately in containers and assemble when ready to eat.

What can I substitute for honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just double-check any packaged ingredients like sauces for hidden dairy.

What are some good toppings for this dish?

Green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime would all make great toppings for extra flavor.

How can I make this dish more filling?

You can add extra veggies, double the protein, or add avocado or a fried egg on top to make the meal more filling.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a deliciously simple meal that brings together the perfect combination of sweet and spicy flavors. With the ability to customize it with different vegetables and grains, it’s a versatile dish that works well for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

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