Hot Honey Chicken Bowl Recipe

A Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in a single, satisfying dish. Juicy, tender chicken is coated in a sticky hot honey glaze and served over a bed of fluffy rice with fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing. This easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or when you’re craving something flavorful yet wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Spicy Perfection – The combination of honey and hot sauce creates a bold, mouthwatering glaze.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable – Swap out vegetables, grains, or protein to fit your taste and dietary preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Hot Honey Glaze

• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as sriracha or Frank’s Red Hot)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

For the Bowl

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or green onions

For the Creamy Dressing (Optional)

• ¼ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, toss the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.

Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
2. Pour the glaze over the cooked chicken and toss to coat. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls.
2. Top with hot honey chicken, shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, avocado, and cheese (if using).
3. Drizzle with the creamy dressing, if desired, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or green onions.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Enjoy your Hot Honey Chicken Bowl immediately, or store for meal prep!

Variations & Substitutions

• Protein Swap – Use shrimp, tofu, or tempeh instead of chicken.
• Grain Alternatives – Substitute quinoa, couscous, or farro for rice.
• Vegetable Additions – Add roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or steamed broccoli.
• Dairy-Free Option – Skip the cheese and use a dairy-free yogurt for the dressing.
• Extra Crunch – Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or crispy chickpeas on top.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 2-3 bowls
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
• Meal Prep Tip: Store ingredients separately and assemble fresh for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the hot honey glaze?

The spice level depends on the type and amount of hot sauce used. Adjust to your preference by using more or less hot sauce and red pepper flakes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the dish gluten-free.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken?

A skillet is the quickest method, but you can also bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Can I use store-bought hot honey instead?

Absolutely! If you have store-bought hot honey, drizzle it over the cooked chicken instead of making the glaze from scratch.

What’s the best rice to use?

White rice, jasmine rice, and brown rice all work well. For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store components separately for the freshest results.

What’s a good side dish for this bowl?

A side of roasted Brussels sprouts, a simple green salad, or miso soup pairs well with this dish.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake the seasoned chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, then toss with the hot honey glaze.

How do I make the dressing vegan?

Use dairy-free yogurt or a cashew-based dressing to keep it vegan.

Can I make this dish kid-friendly?

Reduce the hot sauce or use a milder variety to make it less spicy for kids.

Conclusion

The Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is a perfect blend of sweet heat, fresh veggies, and comforting grains. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it with different proteins, grains, or toppings to make it your own!

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