When that mid-week cooking slump hits, I find myself craving something that’s both comforting and exciting—a dish that can warm my soul while igniting my taste buds. Recently, a flavor combination inspired by my favorite Sweetgreen bowl has become the answer to my dinner dilemmas: the Hot Honey Chicken Bowl. Imagine perfectly seared chicken thighs drizzled with a spicy-sweet honey mustard sauce, nestled atop fluffy quinoa and surrounded by roasted sweet potatoes and a crunchy coleslaw. Each bite of this wholesome bowl offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes, turning a simple dinner into a culinary experience. Not only is this recipe easy to whip up, but it’s also completely customizable to suit your dietary needs, making it a perfect weeknight solution that’s far superior to any takeout. Ready to awaken your palate? Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s sure to impress!
Why is the Hot Honey Chicken Bowl a must-try?
Irresistible flavors: This dish combines tender chicken and sweet potatoes with a spicy honey mustard dressing, creating a taste experience that’s both cozy and exciting.
Nutritious goodness: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this bowl is a wholesome meal that satisfies your cravings without the guilt.
Endless customization: Easily adapt this recipe by swapping quinoa for your favorite grain or adding different vegetables to suit your dietary preferences.
Quick to prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal on the table in no time—perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleasing favorite: Whether for yourself or hosting friends, the vibrant flavors and textures will definitely impress!
Hot Honey Chicken Bowl Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy, they remain moist during cooking; chicken breasts can be used if you prefer.
• Olive Oil – Great for seasoning; avocado oil is a fantastic substitute.
• Chili Powder – Adds a kick; feel free to adjust to your heat tolerance.
• Italian Seasoning – A medley of herbs, perfect for flavor depth.
• Smoked Paprika – Imparts a smoky richness that enhances the dish.
• Garlic Powder – A convenient way to add garlic flavor without chopping!
• Onion Powder – Complements the other spices beautifully.
• Lemon Pepper – Brings brightness; adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper and Salt – Essential for seasoning; balance with other spices to taste.
For the Sweet Potatoes
• Sweet Potatoes – Naturally sweet and packed with nutrients; yams can be used as an alternative.
• Avocado Oil – Perfect for roasting; olive oil works nicely too.
• Cornstarch – Optional for extra crispiness when roasting.
For the Quinoa
• Quinoa – Absorbs flavors well; can substitute with brown rice, white rice, or farro.
• Butter or Olive Oil – Adds richness when sautéing garlic and toasting quinoa.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic contributes authentic flavor; garlic powder can be used for convenience.
For the Coleslaw
• Red Cabbage – Gives a crunchy texture and vivid color; alternatives include green cabbage or bok choy.
• Carrots – Sweet and crisp, they add freshness; you can vary with other crunchy veggies.
• Mayonnaise – Creamy base for coleslaw; Greek yogurt works as a lighter substitute.
• Yellow Mustard – Offers tanginess; Dijon mustard can be a flavorful swap.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens the coleslaw; white vinegar can also be used.
• Sugar or Honey – Enhances sweetness; use honey for a less processed option.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to your taste.
For the Hot Honey Mustard Dressing
• Honey – Provides the sweet element of the dressing; maple syrup is a vegan alternative.
• Mustard (Yellow/Dijon) – Use for a balanced flavor; adjust based on your personal preference.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy kick; necessary for the perfect dressing.
• Avocado Oil – Keeps the dressing smooth; can swap with another neutral oil.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Infuses a touch of heat; adjust according to spice preference.
• Salt – Also enhances the overall flavor.
Optional Topping
• Yellow Onion – Perfect for crispy fried onions; omit to keep gluten-free.
• Buttermilk – Soaks into the onions for a tender bite when frying; can be swapped with a milk and vinegar mix.
• Flour – Dredging ingredient for frying; use gluten-free flour if preferred.
Embrace these ingredients to create your delightful Hot Honey Chicken Bowl—it’s a cozy, customizable dish that celebrates all the vibrant flavors you love!
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Bowl
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Marinate Chicken: Coat chicken thighs with olive oil and the seasoning mix. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to intensify the flavors and tenderize the meat.
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Cook Chicken: Sear marinated chicken in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for 7-8 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Allow to rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.
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Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel and dice sweet potatoes, then toss them with avocado oil, seasoning, and optional cornstarch. Roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are crispy and tender.
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Cook Quinoa: In a saucepan, sauté minced garlic in butter or olive oil until fragrant. Add quinoa and toast for 1-2 minutes, then simmer in chicken broth or water for 15-20 minutes until fluffy and absorbed.
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Make Coleslaw: In a bowl, mix together shredded cabbage, grated carrots, mayo, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Make Dressing: In a small bowl or blender, combine honey, mustard, apple cider vinegar, avocado oil, red pepper flakes, and salt. Blend until smooth and set aside for drizzling.
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Fry Onions (optional): Soak sliced onion in buttermilk for about 10 minutes, then dredge in flour. In a hot skillet, fry until golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
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Assemble Bowl: In a large bowl, layer a bed of quinoa topped with roasted sweet potatoes, sliced chicken, a generous scoop of coleslaw, a drizzle of hot honey mustard dressing, and finish with crispy fried onions if using.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken Bowl
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep components separate to maintain texture, especially the crispy elements.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken and sweet potatoes in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat chicken and sweet potatoes in the oven or skillet to retain crispiness. Heat coleslaw and dressing separately in the microwave or on the stove.
Meal Prep: Consider portioning out ingredients for easy assembly throughout the week—perfect when you’re craving your Hot Honey Chicken Bowl!
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, enhancing their flavor while keeping them juicy. Additionally, the roasted sweet potatoes can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring they’re ready to be warmed before serving. Simply roast them, let them cool, and store in an airtight container. The coleslaw only gets better with time, so feel free to make it a day ahead as well! When it’s time to enjoy, just reheat the chicken and sweet potatoes and assemble your bowl for a delightful meal that’s just as delicious as fresh!
What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Bowl?
When it comes to crafting the perfect meal, you’ll want to enhance your Hot Honey Chicken Bowl with complementary sides and drinks that elevate the entire dining experience.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: Smothered in garlic butter, this crunchy delight offers a savory contrast, perfect for scooping up every morsel from your bowl.
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Roasted Veggies: A colorful medley of seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini tossed in olive oil can add bright flavors and extra nutrients, balancing the sweetness of the bowl.
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Creamy Avocado Salad: The rich creaminess of avocado pairs wonderfully with the spicy elements, creating a fresh contrast with textures that lifts your Hot Honey Chicken Bowl.
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Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut compliments the spicy notes in the bowl, while its creamy consistency adds a comforting touch to your meal.
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Sparkling Citrus Drink: A bubbly citrus soda or iced herbal tea can cleanse your palate, providing a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of your dish.
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Apple Crisp: For a warm and cozy dessert finish, this sweet and spiced treat brings a delightful endnote after enjoying your savory bowl, offering a tasteful tie-in to the honey flavors.
These pairings will not only satisfy your hunger but create an inviting dining scene filled with layers of flavor and texture. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for the Hot Honey Chicken Bowl
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Marinate for Flavor: A longer marination time enhances the depth of flavor in the chicken. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better!
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Crispy Sweet Potatoes: Make sure to roast the sweet potatoes in a single layer. Overcrowding the baking sheet can trap steam and prevent crisping.
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Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain their juicy goodness, making your Hot Honey Chicken Bowl even better.
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Coleslaw Time: Allow the coleslaw to chill in the fridge longer than 15 minutes if possible. This extra time melds the flavors beautifully and improves texture.
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Home-Fried Onions: If you’re up for it, air-frying the onions can yield crispy results without all the oil from traditional frying, lightening your bowl while keeping it delicious.
Hot Honey Chicken Bowl Variations
Feel free to explore different options to personalize your dish and make it your own!
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Grain Swap: Replace quinoa with brown rice, white rice, or farro for a different texture and flavor. Each grain brings its unique taste, adding variety to this cozy bowl.
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Roasted Veggie Boost: Toss in extra roasted veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for more nutrients and color. The added crunch and flavors elevate the entire dish, making it even more enjoyable.
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Crispy Alternatives: Omit the fried onions and use toasted nuts or seeds for a crunchy topping instead. This caters well to different dietary preferences while keeping the deliciousness intact.
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Heat Up: Add fresh jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give an extra kick to your dish. This simple spice adjustment can transform the flavor profile and make it more exciting!
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Creamy Substitution: Swap mayonnaise in the coleslaw for Greek yogurt for a healthier and creamier option. It adds a pleasant tanginess while boosting protein content effortlessly.
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Herbal Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into your coleslaw for a burst of freshness. This small change can brighten up the dish tremendously, adding a refreshing note.
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Sweet Potato Alternatives: Try using roasted carrots, parsnips, or butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes. Each root vegetable offers unique flavors and textures, making your bowl even more delightful.
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Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and use maple syrup instead of honey for a delightful vegan twist. This allows you to enjoy the same comforting dish with a plant-based angle!
Hot Honey Chicken Bowl Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for the Hot Honey Chicken Bowl?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are preferred for this recipe because they stay tender and juicy during cooking. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, they can absolutely be used. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they can dry out more quickly.
How should I store the leftovers of my Hot Honey Chicken Bowl?
Leftovers can be stored in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. I often place the crispy components—such as sweet potatoes and fried onions—in one container and the chicken, quinoa, and coleslaw in others to help maintain their textures.
Can I freeze the components of the Hot Honey Chicken Bowl?
Yes! For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and roasted sweet potatoes in individual portions for up to 2 months. I recommend letting them cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags. To reheat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before warming in the oven or skillet for optimal texture.
What if my sweet potatoes don’t turn out crispy?
If your sweet potatoes aren’t crispy, it could be due to overcrowding the baking sheet. For the best results, make sure they’re in a single layer with space between pieces. Also, tossing them in cornstarch can enhance their crispiness, so don’t skip that step if you want a crunchier bite!
Is there a gluten-free option for the fried onions?
Certainly! You can omit the fried onions altogether for a gluten-free option or opt for gluten-free flour to dredge them if you prefer. Additionally, consider using nuts or seeds as an alternative for that satisfying crunch!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is highly customizable. If you’re concerned about allergies, simply omit any specific ingredients that could pose a risk. For instance, use dairy alternatives for the buttermilk, and swap mayonnaise with a dairy-free version to accommodate various dietary needs.
Hot Honey Chicken Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate Chicken: Coat chicken thighs with olive oil and the seasoning mix. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to intensify the flavors and tenderize the meat.
- Cook Chicken: Sear marinated chicken in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for 7-8 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Allow to rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel and dice sweet potatoes, then toss them with avocado oil, seasoning, and optional cornstarch. Roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are crispy and tender.
- Cook Quinoa: In a saucepan, sauté minced garlic in butter or olive oil until fragrant. Add quinoa and toast for 1-2 minutes, then simmer in chicken broth or water for 15-20 minutes until fluffy and absorbed.
- Make Coleslaw: In a bowl, mix together shredded cabbage, grated carrots, mayo, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl or blender, combine honey, mustard, apple cider vinegar, avocado oil, red pepper flakes, and salt. Blend until smooth and set aside for drizzling.
- Fry Onions (optional): Soak sliced onion in buttermilk for about 10 minutes, then dredge in flour. In a hot skillet, fry until golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Assemble Bowl: In a large bowl, layer a bed of quinoa topped with roasted sweet potatoes, sliced chicken, a generous scoop of coleslaw, a drizzle of hot honey mustard dressing, and finish with crispy fried onions if using.