Honey Chicken Rice Bowl with crispy glazed chicken and rice

Honey Chicken Rice Bowl: A Sweet and Savory Delight

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A honey chicken rice bowl is the perfect combination of crispy, tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey glaze, served over fluffy rice with fresh vegetables. This easy-to-make dish is packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a meal-prep option, this honey chicken rice bowl is sure to become a favorite.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best honey chicken rice bowl at home, including step-by-step instructions, ingredient variations, serving suggestions, and expert tips to make your dish perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Chicken Rice Bowl

✔ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✔ Delicious & Flavorful: A perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors.
✔ Customizable: Adjust ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or spice levels.
✔ Healthy Option: Use lean chicken, whole grains, and fresh veggies for a balanced meal.

Honey Chicken Rice Bowl with crispy glazed chicken and rice
Honey Chicken Rice Bowl with crispy glazed chicken and rice

Ingredients for Honey Chicken Rice Bowl

To make a honey chicken rice bowl, you’ll need simple pantry ingredients that come together to create an irresistible dish.

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (for coating)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp honey (adds natural sweetness)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (for umami flavor)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (for acidity and balance)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (adds warmth and spice)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (to thicken the sauce)

For the Bowl:

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
  • 1/2 cup steamed broccoli
  • 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp sliced green onions (for freshness)

How to Make Honey Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken dry and cut it into bite-sized cubes.
  2. Toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch to create a light coating. This helps the sauce stick better and gives the chicken a slightly crispy texture.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Sauce

  1. In the same pan, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Pour it into the sauce and stir continuously until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss it in the sauce until evenly coated.
  2. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Assemble the Rice Bowl

  1. Start with a base of warm, fluffy rice in a bowl.
  2. Add steamed broccoli, sliced bell peppers, and shredded carrots for a pop of color and crunch.
  3. Top with the honey-glazed chicken.
  4. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for added flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.

Use a Different Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef for a new twist.

Try a Different Grain: Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles instead of rice.

Add More Veggies: Stir in snap peas, mushrooms, or edamame for extra nutrients.

What to Serve with Honey Chicken Rice Bowl

A honey chicken rice bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with:

  • Miso Soup – A warm and comforting appetizer.
  • Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls – Crispy sides that complement the dish.
  • Asian Slaw – A fresh and crunchy side with a tangy dressing.
  • Dumplings – A great side dish for an Asian-inspired feast.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

This dish is great for meal prep and can be stored easily.

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: The chicken and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water.
  • Reheat: Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs About Honey Chicken Rice Bowl

1. What is honey chicken sauce made of?

Honey chicken sauce is a sweet and savory blend of honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and cornstarch to create a thick, sticky glaze.

2. What are the 4 ingredients in honey chicken?

The four essential ingredients for honey chicken are:

  • Chicken – The main protein.
  • Honey – The natural sweetener.
  • Soy Sauce – Adds umami and depth.
  • Garlic (or Ginger) – Enhances the flavor.

3. What goes well with honey chicken?

Honey chicken pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, quinoa, Asian slaw, egg rolls, and dumplings for a complete meal.

4. How to make honey soy chicken and rice?

To make honey soy chicken and rice, cook bite-sized chicken pieces, prepare a sauce with honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch, then mix everything together and serve over rice.

Final Thoughts

This honey chicken rice bowl is a must-try recipe that brings together sweet, savory, and umami flavors in every bite. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep.

Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight meal or a homemade alternative to takeout, this dish is delicious, satisfying, and family-friendly. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!