Hot Honey Chicken Bowl: Sweet & Spicy Meal Prep

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy lunch meal prep idea, this Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is just the ticket! I remember one summer when my son, Jake, decided he wanted to help me cook. We made a spicy honey chicken dish together, and it quickly became a family favorite. Now, we enjoy this sweet and spicy meal prep bowl that’s perfect for busy weekdays.

Why You’ll Love It

  • It’s a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
  • Packed with protein, it’s great for a healthy lunch or dinner.
  • You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies.

Pure Comfort

This bowl is pure comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. The combination of tender chicken, zesty honey, and fresh veggies makes it a meal everyone will love.

What You Need

  • 1 lb 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs – You can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup hot honey – Regular honey with a pinch of red pepper flakes works too.
  • 1 tbsp 1 tbsp olive oil – Feel free to use avocado oil for a different flavor.
  • 1 tsp 1 tsp garlic powder – Fresh minced garlic can be used instead.
  • 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp black pepper – You can use white pepper if you prefer.
  • 2 cups 2 cups cooked brown rice – Quinoa or cauliflower rice are great alternatives.
  • 1 cup 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Substitute with diced bell peppers if desired.
  • 1 cup 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen – You can use canned corn as well.
  • 1 1 avocado, sliced – For a creamier texture, use guacamole.
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – Parsley can be used if you’re not a fan of cilantro.

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 35 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Steps to Make It

  1. Start by marinating the chicken thighs. In a bowl, combine hot honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken in the marinade until well coated and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
  2. While the chicken is marinating, heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The aroma will be irresistible!
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces once it has cooled slightly.
  4. In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and corn. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and the corn is heated through. This adds a lovely pop of color and flavor to your bowl.
  5. Now, it’s time to assemble your Hot Honey Chicken Bowl. Start with a base of cooked brown rice. Top it with the sautéed veggies and sliced chicken.
  6. Finish off by adding sliced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Enjoy your sweet and spicy meal prep bowl right away, or pack it for lunch!

Make It Perfect

  • For extra crunch, add some chopped nuts or seeds on top.
  • If you like it spicier, drizzle more hot honey over the top before serving.
  • This bowl is versatile, so feel free to swap in your favorite veggies.

Mix It Up

  • Try using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
  • For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu marinated in the same sauce.

Perfect Partners

  • Pair this bowl with a refreshing cucumber salad.
  • A side of roasted vegetables complements the flavors beautifully.

💡 For more recipes, follow me on Facebook and Pinterest.

FAQs

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Can I freeze this meal?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and rice separately. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

What can I use instead of hot honey?

You can mix regular honey with a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a similar effect.

Is this bowl suitable for kids?

Yes! The sweetness of the honey balances the spice, making it kid-friendly.

Conclusion

This Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings the family together. With its sweet and spicy flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your healthy lunch meal prep rotation. Enjoy!