These Easy Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a fun blend of sweet and spicy! Juicy chicken cooks up fast and is drizzled with hot honey for a tasty kick.
Serve it over rice or quinoa with fresh veggies, and you’ve got a delicious meal in no time! I love how the sweet heat makes dinnertime feel like a fiesta! 🌶️🍯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and cook quickly. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may require slightly less cooking time.
Sweet Potatoes: These add natural sweetness and nutrition. If unavailable, consider using regular potatoes or butternut squash for a similar texture.
Honey: This gives the dish its sweet character. If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, maple syrup or agave nectar can be good alternatives.
Hot Sauce: Choose your favorite brand to adjust the spice level! Sriracha or chili garlic sauce can also work well if you prefer a different flavor.
Quinoa: While quinoa provides a fluffy base, brown rice or couscous could work just as well if you’re looking for a different grain.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken thighs evenly is key for juicy results. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with chicken at room temperature for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part; aim for 165°F (74°C).
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing—this keeps it moist!
These simple steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy these flavors in a warm bowl that’s sure to impress!
Easy Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to spice preference)
For the Bowls:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch sticks or cubes
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Optional: creamy herb dressing (such as ranch mixed with fresh herbs or cilantro-lime dressing) for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes of cooking time, for a total of roughly 50 minutes. That includes roasting the sweet potatoes, cooking the chicken, and assembling your flavorful bowls. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. This is where your sweet potatoes will roast, making them deliciously tender and sweet.
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
In a bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. Spread them out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Season the Chicken:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to help them brown nicely. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture on both sides of the chicken thighs to ensure they’re full of flavor.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until they are browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, transfer to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. Make the Hot Honey Sauce:
In a small saucepan or a microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey and hot sauce together until well mixed and drizzle-able. This adds that perfect sweet and spicy kick!
6. Assemble Your Bowls:
Start by placing a generous scoop of cooked quinoa at the bottom of each serving bowl. Layer on the fresh arugula, shredded purple cabbage, and roasted sweet potatoes. Add a chicken thigh on top of all those vibrant veggies.
7. Drizzle and Garnish:
Generously drizzle your spicy hot honey sauce over the chicken. To finish, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the top for added flavor and color.
8. Add Dressing (Optional):
If you’d like some extra creaminess, drizzle on your favorite creamy herb dressing to complement the dish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your bowls warm and enjoy the delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors, mixed with fresh, colorful vegetables. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of taste!
This dish combines roasted sweet potatoes, tender and spicy chicken glazed with hot honey, all served over fluffy quinoa—it’s an easy, healthy bowl bursting with flavor that you’ll want to make again and again!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just remember that breasts may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 4-5 minute mark per side.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu. Both options will provide protein and complement the sweet honey sauce nicely!
What Can I Use Instead of Quinoa?
If you prefer a different grain, brown rice, farro, or even cauliflower rice are great alternatives. Just make sure they’re cooked and seasoned to your liking before assembly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave gently or warm on the stove until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken juicy!
