These Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is cooked with spicy honey sauce, then served over fluffy rice and fresh veggies for a perfect meal.
I love how the sweet and spicy flavors come together. It’s super easy to make, and leftovers taste just as good! Plus, who can resist a bowl full of goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for leaner options, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work, but they may be less juicy. You can also use tofu for a meatless version.
Hot Sauce: Use your favorite hot sauce to adjust the heat to your liking. Sriracha is a great option if you want a mild kick. For a sweeter taste, consider mixing in some chili garlic sauce.
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness. You can swap them for other root veggies like carrots or butternut squash. They both roast nicely and bring their unique flavors.
Quinoa: Quinoa is a protein-packed grain, but if you’re not a fan, brown rice or couscous is a good substitute. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess; however, you can swap it for goat cheese or a dairy-free option if needed. I personally enjoy the tanginess that feta provides!
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but a few tips will help you get it just right. Aim for a golden, crispy skin that’s packed with flavor.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
- Cook the chicken skin-side down first. This helps render the fat and creates that lovely crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is the sweet spot.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before cutting. This allows the juices to redistribute for moist and flavorful bites.
With these tips, you’re all set to make a delicious Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowl! Enjoy!
Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
For the Bowls:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into sticks or cubes
- 2 cups fresh arugula or mixed greens
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dressing (Optional):
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, or dill), chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water to thin if needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This whole recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, and around 30-35 minutes to cook, including roasting the sweet potatoes and cooking the chicken. You’ll have a wonderfully delicious meal ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Take your sweet potato sticks or cubes and toss them in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they become tender and slightly crisp on the edges.
2. Cook the Quinoa:
While your sweet potatoes are roasting, go ahead and cook your quinoa according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This will help achieve a nice crispy skin! Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder for delicious flavor.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place your seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes or until the skin gets nice and golden. Flip the thighs over and cook for another 6-8 minutes, making sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Make the Hot Honey Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. This sauce is what gives the dish that sweet and spicy kick!
6. Glaze the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, brush the hot honey sauce generously over each piece. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize a bit.
7. Prepare the Dressing (Optional):
If you’re making the dressing, in another small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, chopped herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. If it’s too thick, add water slowly until you reach your desired drizzling consistency.
8. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to put your bowls together! Start with a base of quinoa at the bottom of each bowl. Arrange the roasted sweet potatoes, shredded cabbage, and fresh arugula around the quinoa. Finally, place one glazed chicken thigh right on top!
9. Garnish:
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and your choice of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the bowls for added flavor. If you made the optional dressing, drizzle some over the top as well.
10. Serve:
Dig in and enjoy your delicious, balanced Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowl! Each bite is packed with flavor and satisfaction!
This dish not only highlights the lovely sweet, spicy, and savory notes of the honey sauce but also offers fresh and roasted textures that make it truly vibrant and enjoyable. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Can I Use Boneless Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, but they may not be as juicy as thighs. If using boneless chicken, reduce the cooking time to about 5-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for protein. Marinate and cook them similarly, and adjust the hot honey sauce to taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the hot honey sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to glaze the chicken!
