Hot Honey Chicken Bowls

A Perfect Balance of Sweet, Spicy, and Savory

Hot Honey Chicken Bowls combine crispy, juicy chicken with a sticky, spicy-sweet honey glaze, served over a bed of rice or grains and complemented by fresh, vibrant toppings. This dish offers the perfect balance of heat from chili-infused honey and richness from a well-seasoned, pan-seared or air-fried chicken. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Customizable – Swap out proteins, grains, or veggies based on preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of crispy chicken and hot honey glaze is mouthwatering.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ¼ cup neutral oil (vegetable or avocado oil)

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• ½ cup honey
• 1 ½ teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Bowls:

• 2 cups cooked white rice, brown rice, or quinoa
• 1 cup shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
• ½ cup sliced cucumbers
• ½ cup sliced avocado
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with milk.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

3. Make the Hot Honey Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, red pepper flakes, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Heat over low until warm and well combined, about 2 minutes.
3. Pour the hot honey over the cooked chicken and toss to coat evenly.

4. Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide rice or quinoa into serving bowls.
2. Top with hot honey chicken, shredded cabbage, cucumbers, avocado slices, and green onions.
3. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and drizzle extra hot honey if desired.

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Variations & Substitutions

• Protein Swap – Try shrimp, tofu, or crispy cauliflower instead of chicken.
• Spice Level – Adjust the red pepper flakes to control heat intensity.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice or mixed greens.
• Crunch Factor – Add toasted nuts, crispy wontons, or fried onions for extra texture.

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Microwave for a quick option, though it may soften the coating.
• Freezing: The cooked chicken (without sauce) can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw and crisp in an oven before tossing with fresh hot honey sauce.

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FAQs

How spicy is hot honey chicken?

The spice level depends on the amount of red pepper flakes used. Start with 1 teaspoon for mild heat and increase as needed.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour and replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

What’s the best way to make this chicken extra crispy?

Double-dipping the chicken in the egg and flour mixture creates a thicker, crispier crust. Also, ensure the oil is hot before frying.

Can I air-fry the chicken instead?

Absolutely! Spray the coated chicken with oil and air-fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.

What kind of honey works best?

Any honey works, but raw or wildflower honey provides a richer flavor.

Can I use store-bought hot honey instead?

Yes, but making it yourself allows you to control sweetness and spice.

What side dishes go well with hot honey chicken bowls?

Steamed broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes, or a side of miso soup pair well.

How do I prevent the chicken from getting soggy?

Let it cool slightly before tossing with hot honey sauce, and avoid covering immediately after frying.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! Keep components separate and assemble when ready to eat.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

If making for kids, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

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Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are the perfect combination of crispy, sticky, sweet, and spicy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a meal-prep-friendly option, or a dish that impresses guests, this recipe delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures. Customize with your favorite toppings, adjust the spice to your liking, and enjoy this easy, restaurant-quality dish at home.

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