These Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a favorite! Juicy chicken is cooked to perfection and drizzled with spicy honey. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and heat!
I love how quick this meal comes together—just toss everything in one bowl, and you’ve got a tasty dish ready to go. Who knew dinner could be so easy and fun? 🍯🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you prefer, chicken breasts work too, but they might need a little extra time to cook and stay tender.
Honey: The star of the show! I love using local honey for its unique flavor. If you’re vegan, consider agave syrup or maple syrup as an alternative.
Sweet Potatoes: These add a sweet touch and healthy carbs. In a pinch, butternut squash or regular potatoes can be great substitutes that also roast well!
Quinoa: Quinoa is super nutritious and easy to cook. If you’re not a fan, brown rice or couscous are good alternatives.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne (for more heat) can do the trick. Adjust to taste!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Full of Flavor?
The key to juicy chicken is proper cooking and seasoning. Start by patting the chicken dry; moisture needs to escape to get a nice sear. Next, make sure to season generously with spices.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high before adding oil and chicken. This helps create a flavorful crust.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides—typically 5-6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be at least 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t skimp on the hot honey sauce! Brush it on right at the end for a sticky, sweet glaze that enhances the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Roast Sweet Potatoes?
Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness. Here’s how to get them perfectly caramelized:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven works wonders!
- Cut the sweet potatoes into even sizes for consistent cooking. Try cubes or sticks.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices, then spread them out on a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate, giving them a crisp texture.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway to get that beautiful browning on both sides.
These tips should help you create the best Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls that are bursting with flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to heat preference)
For the Bowl:
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into sticks or cubes
- 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 cup water or chicken broth (for cooking quinoa)
- 1 cup fresh arugula or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Green Yogurt Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 small handful fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water to thin, if needed
Time Needed:
This Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Quinoa:
In a small pot, combine rinsed quinoa with water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork, then set it aside.
2. Prepare the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
While the quinoa is cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the sweet potato sticks or cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Spread them out on a lined baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized.
3. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper; rub this mixture over the chicken thoroughly. In a skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
4. Make the Hot Honey Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the honey with sriracha or hot sauce to your preference. Once the chicken is cooked, brush or drizzle this hot honey sauce over the chicken in the pan. Allow it to cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes glossy and caramelized.
5. Make the Green Yogurt Dressing (optional):
If you’d like to add some creamy dressing, combine Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding water little by little until reaching your desired drizzling consistency.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
In each bowl, start with a base of cooked quinoa. Arrange the roasted sweet potatoes, shredded purple cabbage, and fresh arugula or mixed greens around the quinoa. Place the glazed hot honey chicken right in the center of the bowl. Optionally, drizzle with green yogurt dressing and top with crumbled feta and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls right away and relish the wonderful mix of sweet, spicy, and fresh flavors!
This recipe yields about 2 bowls, making it perfect for a quick, flavorful, nutritious meal. Enjoy your cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but keep in mind they’ll take longer to cook. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. You may want to sear them on the stovetop first and then finish cooking them in the oven to ensure even doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Quinoa?
If quinoa isn’t your favorite or you don’t have it on hand, feel free to use brown rice, couscous, or even farro. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you choose, as they may vary.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken, sweet potatoes, and quinoa a day ahead. Just store each component separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat everything, assemble your bowls, and drizzle with the hot honey sauce and dressing just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat the chicken and sweet potatoes gently in the oven or microwave, and add a splash of water to the quinoa to revive its texture.
