Hot Honey Chicken Bowls

A Sweet and Spicy Twist on a Classic Bowl

Hot Honey Chicken Bowls combine the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making them a satisfying and flavorful meal. Featuring crispy or grilled chicken coated in a homemade hot honey sauce, served over a base of rice or greens, and complemented by fresh vegetables and toppings, this dish is both nutritious and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of honey perfectly offsets the heat of chili flakes or hot sauce.
• Versatile: Customize with your choice of grains, proteins, and vegetables.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Prepare components in advance for a grab-and-go lunch option.

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 paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Hot Honey Sauce

• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha or Frank’s RedHot)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Bowl Components

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup sliced cucumbers
• ½ cup sliced red onions
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat.

2. Make the Hot Honey Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, butter, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Stir until butter is melted and ingredients are well combined. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide cooked rice among serving bowls.
2. Top with cooked chicken and drizzle the hot honey sauce over it.
3. Arrange shredded carrots, cucumbers, red onions, and avocado around the bowl.
4. Sprinkle with feta or goat cheese (if using) and fresh cilantro or parsley.
5. Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations

• Grilled Chicken Option: Instead of pan-frying, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or chickpeas.
• Different Grains: Swap rice for quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
• Extra Crunch: Add roasted nuts or crispy tortilla strips for texture.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Serve cold or warm, depending on preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the hot honey sauce?

The heat level can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes and hot sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the hot honey sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it gently before using.

What’s the best way to make crispy chicken?

For extra crispiness, coat the chicken in cornstarch before pan-frying.

Can I air-fry the chicken?

Yes, air-fry the chicken at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

What vegetables go well in this bowl?

Bell peppers, edamame, radishes, and shredded cabbage all make great additions.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Toss shredded rotisserie chicken in the hot honey sauce for an even quicker meal.

What’s a good substitute for honey?

Maple syrup works as a natural alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I make this meal dairy-free?

Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu work well in this dish.

How do I make this dish low-carb?

Use cauliflower rice and swap honey for a keto-friendly sweetener like monk fruit syrup.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a fantastic combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that come together in an easy, customizable meal. Whether you enjoy it fresh or as meal prep, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it out and make it your own with your favorite toppings and sides!

Print