Hot Honey Chicken Bowls

These Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a bold, flavorful, and high-protein meal that comes together in under 40 minutes. Made entirely in a skillet, this dish is spicy, sweet, and completely customizable. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or just love the combination of hot honey and tender chicken, this recipe is a must-try.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with protein and healthy fats
• Completely customizable—swap out the veggies or adjust the spice level
• Meal-prep friendly—stores well for easy lunches and dinners
• One-pan recipe for minimal cleanup

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large cast iron skillet – Ideal for even cooking and getting a nice sear on the chicken
• Sharp knife – Helps with slicing chicken and vegetables evenly
• Cutting board – For prepping all ingredients
• Mixing bowls – Needed for whisking the hot honey sauce and ranch drizzle
• Tongs – Makes flipping the chicken easier
• Oven mitts – Necessary for transferring the hot skillet to and from the oven

Preparation Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C)
• Slice vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate
• Reserve some hot honey sauce before coating the chicken for extra flavor after cooking
• Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy

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Ingredients

For the Hot Honey Chicken

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 ¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved lengthwise (about 2 medium)
• ⅓ cup honey
• 2-3 tablespoons sriracha (or any hot sauce)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)

For the Bowls

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 medium summer squash, sliced
• 1 ½ cups shredded carrots
• 1 medium avocado, sliced
• 2 cups cooked rice (or quinoa)
• ½ medium lime (optional, for topping)

Healthy Ranch Drizzle (Optional)

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired thickness)
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon freshly chopped parsley
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Sear the Chicken

• Heat avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook the chicken breasts for 5 minutes per side until browned.

3. Make the Hot Honey Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, garlic, salt, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and crushed red pepper (if using).
• Set aside 3-4 tablespoons of the sauce for later.

4. Sauté the Vegetables

• Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set aside.
• Lower the heat slightly and sauté the zucchini and summer squash for 1-2 minutes.
• Turn off the heat.

5. Assemble the Dish

• Add the shredded carrots over the sautéed veggies.
• Place the chicken breasts on top and coat both sides with the hot honey sauce.

6. Bake the Chicken and Vegetables

• Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, stirring the vegetables halfway through.

7. Make the Ranch Drizzle (Optional)

• While the chicken bakes, whisk together the Greek yogurt, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, dried dill, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.

8. Broil for Extra Flavor

• Turn the oven to high broil and broil for 3-5 minutes until the sauce caramelizes.

9. Rest and Cube the Chicken

• Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
• Cut into bite-sized cubes and toss with the reserved hot honey sauce.

10. Assemble the Bowls

• Divide the cooked rice (or quinoa) into bowls.
• Top with the sautéed vegetables and hot honey chicken.
• Drizzle with extra hot honey sauce and ranch dressing.
• Garnish with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime, if desired.

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Notes

• Storage – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Adjusting Spice Level – For a milder version, use a mild hot sauce or substitute tomato sauce for sriracha.
• Time-Saving Tip – Swap the homemade hot honey sauce for store-bought hot honey.

Serving Suggestions

These Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can enhance the flavor and create a well-balanced plate. Here are some great serving ideas:

• Drizzle Extra Sauce – Add more of the reserved hot honey sauce for extra heat and sweetness.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
• Add a Crunchy Element – Top with toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or crispy onions for texture.
• Include a Cooling Element – Balance the spice with extra avocado slices, Greek yogurt, or sour cream.
• Serve with a Fresh Salad – A simple cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing pairs well.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even a simple dish like this can go wrong without the right techniques. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Overcooking the Chicken

Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

2. Not Adjusting the Spice Level

The hot honey sauce is customizable. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the sriracha and cayenne or replace some of the hot sauce with tomato sauce. If you love extra heat, add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot chili oil.

3. Using Cold Rice or Quinoa

Cold rice can be clumpy and dry. If using leftover rice, warm it up in the microwave with a few drops of water or reheat it in a skillet with a splash of olive oil.

4. Skipping the Broil Step

Broiling for the last 3-5 minutes helps the hot honey glaze caramelize on the chicken, creating a deeper flavor. Skipping this step may leave the dish slightly underwhelming.

5. Not Sautéing the Vegetables Properly

For the best texture, slice the zucchini and squash evenly and sauté them just until slightly softened. Overcooking them before baking can lead to mushy vegetables.

6. Using the Wrong Pan

A cast iron skillet works best for this recipe because it sears the chicken well and retains heat for even cooking. If using a different pan, ensure it is oven-safe or transfer the ingredients to a baking dish before baking.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Pairing this dish with the right sides can add variety and balance the flavors. Here are eight great side dishes to consider:

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the spicy hot honey glaze. Dice them into cubes, toss with olive oil and salt, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.

2. Steamed Broccoli

A simple steamed broccoli side keeps the meal light and nutritious. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor.

3. Garlic Butter Green Beans

Sauté green beans in garlic butter for a quick and flavorful side dish. They add a slight crunch and a fresh contrast to the hot honey chicken.

4. Quinoa Salad

A cold quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette is a great addition to this dish, adding protein and freshness.

5. Corn on the Cob

Grilled or boiled corn on the cob complements the sweet and spicy flavors of the chicken, making it a simple and satisfying side.

6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze bring a slightly bitter and caramelized taste that balances the richness of the chicken.

7. Cucumber Salad

A refreshing cucumber and red onion salad with vinegar and dill can help cool down the heat from the hot honey sauce.

8. Avocado Lime Slaw

A light and tangy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, lime juice, and avocado adds a creamy, crunchy texture to the meal.

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Recipe Tips

Making the perfect Hot Honey Chicken Bowls is easy with the right techniques. Here are some tips to enhance the flavor, texture, and overall experience:

• Marinate for More Flavor – If time allows, let the chicken sit in the hot honey sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors penetrate deeper.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, lime, and herbs add brightness and enhance the dish’s flavor.
• Double the Sauce – If you love extra sauce, consider doubling the hot honey sauce to drizzle over the rice or vegetables.
• Add More Crunch – Topping the bowls with toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or crispy fried shallots adds texture and depth.
• Adjust the Sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the honey slightly or balance it with a splash of apple cider vinegar.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

This dish is great for meal prep, and leftovers store well.

• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezer – Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the chicken and vegetables separately from the rice.

Reheating Instructions

To maintain the best texture and flavor, use the right reheating method:

• Microwave – Place the meal in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Add a splash of water to the rice to prevent dryness.
• Skillet – Heat a pan over medium heat, add a little oil, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
• Oven – Reheat in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Cover with foil to keep the chicken moist.

If reheating from frozen, let the meal thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. They may require an additional 5 minutes of cooking time.

2. What can I use instead of sriracha?

If you do not have sriracha, you can substitute it with Frank’s RedHot, gochujang, chipotle sauce, or a mild hot sauce.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your Worcestershire sauce is labeled gluten-free.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply skip the ranch drizzle or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

5. What are some low-carb alternatives to rice?

For a low-carb version, substitute rice with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a bed of fresh greens.

6. Can I make the hot honey sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to one week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

7. How can I make this meal spicier?

Increase the heat by adding extra sriracha, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot chili oil.

8. What vegetables can I substitute?

Swap zucchini and squash for bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or broccoli for a different texture and taste.

9. Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, then coat with the hot honey sauce.

10. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and allowing the chicken to rest before slicing.

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Conclusion

These Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory, making them a great choice for both quick dinners and meal prep. The customizable ingredients and versatile cooking methods allow you to make this dish exactly how you like it. Whether you serve it with rice, quinoa, or a low-carb alternative, this meal is satisfying and packed with flavor.

Try out different vegetable combinations, adjust the spice level to your liking, and enjoy a healthy, protein-rich meal that is easy to prepare and reheat. With the right storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy this dish throughout the week without losing any of its deliciousness.