These Easy Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a sweet and kicky treat! Tender chicken tossed in a spicy honey sauce sits on a bed of rice, making dinner simple and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are great for their tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but they may need to be cooked slightly longer to stay juicy.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky flavor, which pairs nicely with the sweetness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, or you can try ground cumin for a different depth of flavor.
Honey: While honey gives that lovely sweetness, agave syrup or maple syrup can be great substitutes if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Hot Sauce: I use Sriracha for a nice kick, but feel free to replace it with any hot sauce you like. If you want less heat, use a milder sauce or reduce the amount.
Quinoa: Quinoa is packed with protein and a nice base for this dish. You can swap it for brown rice, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken thighs can be tricky, but keeping them juicy is all about the right technique. Here are a few tips:
- Start at medium-high heat for a perfect sear. This locks in juices and gives that nice coloring.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. If they’re thick, cover the skillet while they cook to keep moisture in.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C).
Following these steps ensures your chicken isn’t dry and is simply delicious in those hot honey bowls!
How to Make Easy Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to desired heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (such as Sriracha)
For the Bowls:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 cups cubed roasted sweet potatoes
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 2 cups fresh arugula or mixed greens
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You will spend about 15 minutes marinating the chicken and then another 15-20 minutes cooking and assembling the bowls. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and make sure they are fully coated in the spice mixture. Let them marinate for 10-15 minutes; this will really enhance the flavors!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and browned nicely. A good tip is to flip them only once to get that perfect sear. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a moment.
3. Making the Hot Honey Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey and hot sauce. After the chicken is cooked, brush this mixture generously over the chicken thighs. It adds a deliciously sweet and spicy kick!
4. Preparing the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth. Set it aside while you assemble your bowls.
5. Assembling the Bowls:
Start by dividing the cooked quinoa among four serving bowls as the base. Then, layer on the fresh arugula, shredded purple cabbage, cubed roasted sweet potatoes, and place one chicken thigh on top of each bowl. It’s a colorful and nutritious base!
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Drizzle the cilantro-lime dressing over each bowl to add that creamy touch. Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and a bit of chopped cilantro on top for extra flavor and presentation.
7. Enjoy the Meal:
Serve immediately while it’s warm, and enjoy your delightful bowl of spicy hot honey chicken! Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and fresh flavors!
These bowls are not just delicious but also look amazing—perfect for sharing with family and friends.
FAQ for Easy Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just cook them for a longer time, about 7-8 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Quinoa?
If you’re looking for alternatives to quinoa, brown rice, couscous, or even cauliflower rice are great options. Each will provide a different texture and flavor but will still complement the dish beautifully.
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
If you want to tone down the heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce. You can also mix in some extra honey to balance out the spiciness with more sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove. If the dressing separates, simply stir it before using it again.
