This Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is a tasty mix of crispy chicken, sweet honey, and a little kick! It’s perfect for dinner when you want something special yet simple.
The blend of flavors makes each bite exciting. I love how quick it is to make. Just cook the chicken, drizzle with hot honey, and serve it over rice—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I use boneless, skin-on thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you want a leaner option, skinless breast works too but can be less moist.
Sweet Potatoes: These add a nice sweetness to balance the heat. If you don’t have them, butternut squash or regular potatoes can be a good swap. Just adjust roasting times as needed.
Honey and Hot Sauce: This combo creates the delicious hot honey glaze. For alternatives, try maple syrup for sweetness, and sriracha or any favorite hot sauce for heat.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. If you’re looking for dairy-free, try avocado or skip the cheese altogether!
How Do I Get the Chicken Skin Super Crispy?
Getting that crispy skin on your chicken is key for texture! Start by ensuring the chicken thighs are dry; moisture prevents crispiness. In your preheated skillet, cooking skin-side down first at medium-high heat really helps. Don’t rush this step—allow the skin to cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes.
- Be sure to flip the chicken only after a golden brown color appears.
- If you’re worried about cooking it through, use a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) means it’s done!
Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes (cut into chunks)
- 1 cup fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup ranch or cilantro-lime dressing (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 40 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then 25-30 minutes roasting the sweet potatoes while cooking the chicken simultaneously. It’s a quick and rewarding meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato chunks with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet, then roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, it’s time to prepare the chicken. In a bowl, rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the spices for maximum flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet skin-side down and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the skin to get crispy and golden brown. Once the skin looks perfect, flip the chicken over and cook for another 5 minutes or until the inside reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Hot Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the honey and hot sauce, mixing well to create your hot honey glaze. Adjust the level of spice to suit your taste!
5. Drizzle on the Goodness:
Coat the cooked chicken thighs with the hot honey glaze, making sure to cover them nicely. This will add a deliciously sweet and spicy flavor to your chicken!
6. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! In serving bowls, divide the cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, shredded cabbage, and fresh arugula. Top each bowl with a hot honey chicken thigh.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle each bowl with crumbled feta cheese and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
8. Optional Dressing:
If you like, drizzle some ranch or cilantro-lime dressing over the top for an extra creamy element.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve warm and savor the delightful mix of flavors!
This recipe delivers a beautiful, balanced bowl with sweet-spicy chicken paired with fresh and roasted veggies, grain, and creamy feta for texture and flavor contrast.
FAQs About Easy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since bone-in chicken will take longer to cook through. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy or Mild?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the honey glaze to your taste. For a milder version, start with just a few drops and taste as you go. You can also use a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in a skillet until heated through. If the chicken seems dry, you can drizzle a bit more hot honey before serving!
What Are Some Good Side Dish Options?
This bowl is quite filling on its own, but if you want a side, consider adding a light salad or sautéed veggies for extra crunch. Alternatively, a side of roasted corn or a refreshing cucumber salad would pair nicely!
