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Craving a meal that’s equal parts sweet, spicy, and satisfying? Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl delivers with tender chicken coated in a zesty honey chipotle sauce, served over fluffy rice with vibrant toppings. This flavorful rice bowl is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering bold flavors and easy prep that’ll make it a regular in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl

Bold Flavors: Sweet honey and smoky chipotle create a perfect balance.
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes with minimal effort.
Customizable: Swap proteins or veggies to fit your taste.
Healthy and Filling: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Great for leftovers or make-ahead lunches.

Ingredients for Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl

Here’s what you need for this flavorful rice bowl (serves 4):

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
¼ cup (60ml) honey
2 tbsp (30ml) adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers
1 tbsp (15ml) lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups (400g) cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup (170g) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup (150g) corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
1 avocado, sliced
¼ cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges, for serving

Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking thermometer (optional)

Ingredient Tips

Chicken thighs add juiciness; breasts work for a leaner option.
Adobo sauce brings smoky heat; adjust for spice preference.
Fresh lime juice enhances brightness.
Use brown rice for extra fiber or white for a classic texture.
Fresh cilantro and avocado add vibrant color and flavor.

Directions for Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl

Let’s make this flavorful rice bowl—sweet, spicy, and delicious!

Prep Chicken

I cut 1 lb chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

Make Sauce

In a mixing bowl, I combine ¼ cup honey, 2 tbsp adobo sauce, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 2 minced garlic cloves, mixing well.

Cook Chicken

In a large skillet, I heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. I add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked to 165°F (74°C).

Add Sauce

I pour the honey chipotle sauce over the chicken, stirring to coat. I simmer for 5–10 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.

Assemble Bowl

In serving bowls, I layer 2 cups cooked rice, the honey chipotle chicken, 1 cup black beans, and 1 cup corn. I top with sliced avocado and ¼ cup chopped cilantro.

Serve

I serve with lime wedges for a fresh, zesty kick.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~500 kcal per serving (1/4 dish)
Macros per Serving: 55g carbs, 30g protein, 18g fat, 8g fiber

Variations

Try these twists on this recipe:

Protein Swap: Use chicken breasts, shrimp, or tofu, inspired by LaylaCooks’ Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne.
Grain Change: Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers or zucchini.
Spice Control: Reduce adobo sauce for milder flavor or add chipotle peppers for heat.
Topping Twist: Try sour cream or pickled onions for extra flair.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with LaylaCooks’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a fresh side.
Enjoy with LaylaCooks’ Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca for a refreshing drink.
Serve with LaylaCooks’ The Best Peach Sorbet for dessert.

Storage

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, keeping chicken and rice separate from toppings to maintain freshness. For freezing, I store the chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Use colorful bowls to highlight vibrant ingredients.
Garnish: Top with cilantro, avocado, or a drizzle of adobo sauce.
Pairing: Try with LaylaCooks’ Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad or warm tortillas.
Portion Size: 1–1.5 cups per person.
Occasions: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

FAQs

Can I use other meats?
Yes, turkey or pork work well; adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this dish spicy?
It’s moderately spicy; reduce adobo sauce for less heat or add chipotle for more.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, swap chicken for tofu or extra beans and add veggies.

How do I adjust sweetness?
Reduce honey or omit for a less sweet, smokier flavor.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, it saves time; warm it before assembling.

More Chicken Recipes

Conclusion

Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s quick to make and perfect for any night. This flavorful rice bowl combines sweet honey, smoky chipotle, and hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal. Try this versatile recipe and enjoy a bold, comforting favorite!

Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl

Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s quick to make and perfect for any night. This flavorful rice bowl combines sweet honey, smoky chipotle, and hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tbsp 30ml olive oil
¼ cup 60ml honey
2 tbsp 30ml adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers
1 tbsp 15ml lime juice
2 cloves garlic minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups 400g cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup 170g black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup 150g corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
1 avocado sliced
¼ cup 15g fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges for serving