Hot Honey Chicken Bowls Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a meal that combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite, Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a must-try. This dish is a perfect blend of crispy, juicy chicken glazed in a spicy-sweet hot honey sauce, served over a hearty grain base, and paired with fresh, vibrant toppings. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or preparing a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is a game-changer.

The combination of hot honey and chicken creates an irresistible contrast—warm, sticky, spicy honey coating crispy, tender chicken pieces. Pair it with fluffy rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables, and you have a balanced meal that satisfies every craving.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best Hot Honey Chicken Bowls from scratch, including tips for the crispiest chicken, the most flavorful honey glaze, and the perfect bowl combinations to keep things exciting.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot, sriracha, or your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Pinch of salt

For the Bowls:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
• 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
• 1/4 cup pickled red onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or chopped peanuts (for garnish)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, add the bite-sized chicken pieces and pour the buttermilk over them. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for extra tenderness).

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let excess liquid drip off.
3. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and everything is well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

1. Transfer the fried chicken to a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide cooked rice among serving bowls.
2. Add roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, shredded carrots, and sliced cucumbers.
3. Top each bowl with the hot honey chicken.
4. Garnish with pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime.

this PIN FOR LATER

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Freezer: Fried chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F until hot and crispy.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the hot honey sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Best Sides for Hot Honey Chicken Bowls

• Steamed Broccoli: Adds a healthy touch.
• Avocado Slices: Balances the heat with creaminess.
• Grilled Corn: Enhances the dish with smoky sweetness.
• Kimchi: Adds tangy, spicy contrast.

Pro Tips for the Best Hot Honey Chicken Bowls

1. Double Bread for Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy crust, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and coat it with the flour mixture again before frying.
2. Use a Food Thermometer: Ensure the oil stays at 350°F for perfectly fried chicken.
3. Don’t Skip the Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar in the sauce balances the sweetness and spice.
4. Adjust the Spice Level: Control the heat by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes and hot sauce.
5. Let the Chicken Rest Before Coating: Allowing the fried chicken to sit for a minute before tossing in the sauce keeps it crispy longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes! Coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more juiciness and flavor.

3. What’s the best hot sauce to use?

Frank’s RedHot, sriracha, or Cholula work great, but any favorite hot sauce will do.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free panko for breading.

5. What’s the best way to make this dish spicier?

Increase the cayenne in the breading and add extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.

6. Can I substitute honey with maple syrup?

Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different. Honey provides a more floral sweetness.

7. What grain can I use instead of rice?

Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or farro are great substitutes.

8. How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken and let it sit for a few minutes before frying.

9. Can I use an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

10. Can I make the hot honey sauce less sweet?

Reduce the honey slightly and add an extra teaspoon of vinegar for balance.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Chicken Bowls are a delightful fusion of flavors—crispy, spicy, and sweet with the perfect combination of textures. This meal is easy to customize, making it ideal for meal prep or an indulgent dinner. With crispy fried chicken, a bold honey glaze, and fresh toppings, every bite is pure satisfaction.

Try this recipe and enjoy the ultimate balance of heat and sweetness. Let us know how you customize your bowl to make it your own!

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