Name: Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowls: Sweet, Spicy, and Satisfying
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs; 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped; 3 tbsp honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp lime juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice); 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, diced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional, for topping); Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

inesboulila A bowl of honey chipotle chicken rice featuring jui 9400e023 2836 4151 8130 2757b855af36

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowls offer the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, making them an irresistible meal choice. The smoky heat from chipotle peppers pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of honey, creating a rich and flavorful dish. This recipe is easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these bowls are both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Chicken breast or thighs
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
Honey
Garlic
Lime juice
Olive oil
Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
Black beans
Corn
Cherry tomatoes
Avocado
Cilantro
Red onion
Salt
Pepper
Cumin
Smoked paprika
Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional for topping)
Shredded cheese (optional for topping)

Directions

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix finely chopped chipotle peppers, honey, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Rice and Toppings: Cook the rice according to package instructions. Chop the cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, layer the rice, black beans, corn, and sliced chicken. Add the fresh toppings—tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
Add Toppings: Drizzle with extra lime juice and top with Greek yogurt or sour cream and shredded cheese if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Mix everything together for the perfect bite and enjoy the sweet and spicy goodness.

Variations

Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or grilled steak instead of chicken.
Grain Options: Substitute rice with quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Extra Heat: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice.
Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese and Greek yogurt for a completely dairy-free meal.
Vegetarian Version: Use roasted sweet potatoes or extra beans instead of meat.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezing: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the amount of chipotle peppers used. Reduce or remove them for a milder dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare all components in advance and assemble just before serving.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken?

Grilling or pan-searing works best to lock in the smoky, sweet flavors.

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Toss it in the honey-chipotle sauce for flavor before serving.

How do I make this low-carb?

Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice and omit beans and corn.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco complement the flavors well.

Can I use fresh chipotle peppers instead of canned?

Canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce provide the best flavor, but fresh ones can be blended with a bit of vinegar and tomato paste as a substitute.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! Reduce the chipotle for a milder taste, and kids will love the sweet and savory combination.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the marinated chicken on low for 4-6 hours, then shred and serve.

What’s a good side dish for this?

A side of tortilla chips with guacamole or a simple green salad pairs well.

Conclusion

Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowls are a delightful combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors that make for a well-balanced meal. With customizable ingredients, this dish is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a satisfying lunch. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful, wholesome meal in every bite!

Print