Hot Honey Chicken Bowls Recipe

These Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are my go-to when I want something bold, satisfying, and easy to throw together. The crispy, juicy chicken is glazed in a sweet-and-spicy hot honey sauce, served over a hearty grain or rice base, and topped with crunchy veggies or pickled add-ins. It’s the kind of meal that hits every flavor note—sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory—in one bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s comforting yet still feels fresh. The hot honey glaze brings just the right amount of kick without being overwhelming, and it coats the chicken in a sticky, addictive layer that keeps me coming back for more. It’s also super customizable—I build it with whatever grains, greens, or veggies I have on hand. Whether I make it for lunch meal prep or a weeknight dinner, it always satisfies.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Garlic powder

• Paprika

For the hot honey glaze:

• Honey

• Hot sauce (I usually use something like Frank’s RedHot)

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for more heat)

• Apple cider vinegar

• Butter

For the bowl base & toppings:

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice

• Pickled red onions or cucumbers

• Avocado slices

• Shredded cabbage or lettuce

• Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions

• Lime wedges (optional)

directions

1. I start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked—about 6–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Then I set it aside to rest.

3. In the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium and add honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and butter. I stir it until everything is melted and combined into a sticky glaze.

4. I slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, tossing it in the hot honey glaze until it’s well coated.

5. I build my bowls by layering rice or grains at the bottom, then topping with the glazed chicken and my favorite toppings—usually a mix of veggies, pickled onions, and avocado.

6. I finish with a squeeze of lime and some fresh herbs to brighten it up.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 3–4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

I’ve made this with tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version, and it works surprisingly well. Sometimes I swap the rice for couscous or even noodles when I want something different. For an extra crunchy finish, I’ve even tossed the chicken in cornstarch before pan-frying. If I’m feeling bold, I double the hot sauce for a spicier kick.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat to keep the glaze from separating, or I microwave it with a splash of water to keep it moist. The base and toppings stay fresh if I store them separately and assemble the bowls just before eating.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, I’ve baked it at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes. It’s less crispy but still delicious, especially once coated in the glaze.

What’s the best hot sauce to use?

I usually stick to something with moderate heat like Frank’s RedHot or Cholula. If I want it extra spicy, I use sriracha or a few drops of habanero sauce.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. I keep it in a jar in the fridge for up to a week and reheat it when I’m ready to use it. Just stir it before serving.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this is one of my favorite meal prep bowls. I keep the chicken and grains separate from the fresh toppings so everything stays fresh.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

I prefer using thighs because they stay juicier, but if I’m using breasts, I make sure not to overcook them and let them rest before slicing.

Conclusion

These Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are everything I want in a meal—flavor-packed, satisfying, and endlessly flexible. Whether I’m craving something spicy-sweet or looking for a fresh twist on my usual dinner routine, this dish always hits the mark. It’s easy to whip up, great for leftovers, and seriously addictive.

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