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This Hot Honey Chicken Bowl has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight meals. Sweet roasted vegetables, tender chicken, and a touch of hot honey make each bite a perfect balance of flavor and comfort. It's easy to assemble, satisfying, and packed with wholesome ingredients that leave you feeling nourished and happy.
I first made this on a busy weeknight and was amazed at how fast it came together while still feeling special enough for a dinner party
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: cubed for tender juicy protein
- Cooked quinoa: as a hearty base full of protein and fiber
- Roasted sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts: for natural sweetness and texture
- Hot honey: made by combining honey with a splash of hot sauce to add a sweet and spicy kick
- Crumbled feta cheese: for a tangy creamy finish
- Fresh herbs: for garnish to add brightness and color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Chicken:
- Cook cubed chicken over medium-high heat in a skillet until golden brown and cooked through this builds flavor and ensures juicy pieces Drizzle with half the hot honey to infuse a sweet spicy glaze
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Preheat oven and roast diced sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts until tender and caramelized this adds depth and natural sweetness to the dish
- Assemble the Bowl:
- Place cooked quinoa in bowls layer roasted vegetables and seared chicken evenly Drizzle remaining hot honey over the top and sprinkle with crumbled feta Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color
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I love the combination of hot honey with savory chicken it instantly elevates a simple weeknight dinner and brings back memories of experimenting with flavors in my kitchen
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to preserve texture
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap quinoa for brown rice or farro for a different texture Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier tang
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a light cucumber salad for freshness or a side of avocado slices for creaminess Add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness
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Cultural and Flavor Context
Hot honey is inspired by Southern US cuisine where spicy honey is often paired with fried chicken This dish brings that flavor into a wholesome, balanced bowl
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → What is hot honey and how do I make it?
Hot honey is a perfect balance of sweet honey and spicy heat. Simply mix regular honey with a splash of your favorite hot sauce to taste. Start with a small amount of hot sauce and adjust according to your heat preference.
- → Can I substitute the quinoa with other grains?
Absolutely! Brown rice, wild rice, farro, or cauliflower rice work wonderfully as alternatives. Cook according to package directions and adjust cooking times accordingly.
- → How do I get the chicken perfectly crispy?
Pat the chicken cubes dry before seasoning and make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. Don't overcrowd the pan, and let each piece develop a golden crust before flipping.
- → What vegetables can I use instead of sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts?
Roasted broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or butternut squash all work well. Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- → How long will this bowl keep for meal prep?
Store components separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the hot honey drizzle separate and add it just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast, avocado slices, or dairy-free cheese crumbles.