Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl
This Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful, balanced meal with smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors. Juicy, caramelized chipotle-glazed chicken is served over a bed of fluffy rice and topped with fresh, crunchy toppings. It’s perfect for meal prep or a quick, satisfying dinner!
Prep Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 large chicken breasts (or 4 boneless thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to spice preference)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Rice:
1 ½ cups cooked white or brown rice
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
For the Toppings:
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 avocado, sliced
½ cup diced tomatoes or salsa
¼ cup sliced red onions
¼ cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges, for serving
For the Chipotle Sauce (Optional):
¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
1 teaspoon lime juice
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, chipotle peppers, honey, lime juice, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for more flavor).
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
Step 2: Cook the Rice
1. If not already cooked, prepare rice according to package instructions.
2. Fluff rice and mix in lime juice, cilantro, and salt.
Step 3: Make the Chipotle Sauce (Optional)
1. Blend or whisk together Greek yogurt, chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
1. Divide into bowls.
2. Top with honey chipotle chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, tomatoes, and red onions.
3. Drizzle with chipotle sauce (if using) and sprinkle with cheese and cilantro.
4. Serve with lime wedges for an extra citrusy kick!
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~480
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fiber: ~6g
Sugar: ~10g
Fat: ~15g
Saturated Fat: ~3g
Sodium: ~500mg
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes
Recipe Notes & Variations
Make It Low-Carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa.
Extra Crunch: Add tortilla strips or toasted pepitas on top.
Spicier Version: Increase chipotle peppers or add red pepper flakes.
Grilled Chicken Option: Instead of pan-searing, grill chicken over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store chicken, rice, and toppings separately in the fridge for up to 4 days.
This Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl is packed with flavor and texture, making it a delicious, nutritious meal any day of the week!