These Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls bring a tasty twist to your dinner! With juicy chicken coated in sweet and spicy honey, they’re pure comfort food in a bowl!
I love how quick and simple it is to whip up these bowls, especially when I’m in a rush. Serve them over rice or with veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy while being super easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts would work too. If you want a plant-based option, try tofu or tempeh, marinated with the same hot honey mixture.
Honey: Regular honey adds that sweet touch, but if you’re vegan, maple syrup or agave syrup can be great substitutes for a similar sweetness.
Hot Sauce: Adjust the heat by choosing your favorite hot sauce. Sriracha gives a nice kick, while a milder sauce will keep it friendly for everyone. You can also skip it for a sweeter dish!
Sweet Potato: If you prefer, swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes, butternut squash, or even carrots. They all roast well and add a nice texture.
Quinoa: While quinoa is nutritious, you can use brown rice, farro, or couscous if you have those on hand or prefer a different base.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but there’s a simple way to ensure it’s just right. Here’s the method I follow:
- Start by seasoning the chicken well with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to get hot. This helps to sear the chicken nicely.
- Cook each side for 5-7 minutes, but keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer if you’ve got one!
- Brushing the hot honey sauce in the last minute adds flavor and a beautiful glaze. Letting it caramelize gives an extra tasty crunch.
Using these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken for your bowls every time!
Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1-2 tsp hot sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into sticks
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a creamy herb dressing (e.g., cilantro-lime or ranch) for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, totaling about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy option for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your sweet potatoes will roast perfectly. While that’s warming up, get those sweet potatoes ready!
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
In a bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Once coated, spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they’re tender and have a nice golden color.
3. Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, mix together the honey and hot sauce in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the heat according to your preference. Set this aside for later—it will add that special zing to your chicken!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken thighs (or breasts) with salt and pepper. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. If using a meat thermometer, look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Glaze the Chicken:
During the last minute of cooking, brush the hot honey sauce generously over the chicken, allowing it to caramelize a bit. This will create a beautiful and flavorful glaze!
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start by dividing the cooked quinoa between your serving bowls. Arrange the arugula, shredded cabbage, and roasted sweet potatoes around the quinoa. Finally, place the hot honey-glazed chicken on top.
7. Garnish and Finish:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley or cilantro over each bowl for a burst of flavor. If you’d like, drizzle a bit of creamy herb dressing on top for extra creaminess.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in right away and enjoy your colorful and tasty hot honey chicken bowls! This dish is a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors alongside fresh veggies and hearty quinoa.
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw chicken in the fridge overnight, or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about an hour. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sweet potatoes in advance. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat everything on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep the ingredients fresh, store the hot honey sauce separately until ready to eat. Reheat the chicken and sweet potatoes gently to maintain their texture.
Can I Substitute the Quinoa?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of quinoa, feel free to swap it for brown rice, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Each of these alternatives will still pair wonderfully with the chicken and veggies!
