Ingredients
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients. You’ll be amazed at how simple these components are, but when combined, they deliver a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water
For the Bowl Base:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- 1 cup broccoli florets (steamed)
- 1 carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. Zucchini, bell peppers, or edamame all make great additions!
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Bowl
Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Don’t worry – this recipe is easy to follow and quick to prepare, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
First things first, let’s get the chicken ready. Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a nice sear when cooking.
Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). These simple spices will build a great base flavor for the chicken, complementing the sweet and savory sauce later on.
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Sear each side for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This step creates a beautifully golden-brown crust on the chicken. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Making the Honey Garlic Sauce
Next, we’ll create the honey garlic sauce that brings everything together. Using the same skillet (with all those flavorful bits left behind from the chicken), reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Now, pour in the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir the mixture until it starts to simmer. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the sauce while stirring. This will thicken the sauce and give it a glossy finish.
Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it has thickened to your desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon and look velvety smooth.
Step 3: Bringing It All Together
Now that your chicken is cooked and the sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the bowl. Slice the chicken into thin strips against the grain – this makes it more tender and easier to eat.
In a large bowl, start by adding your base of rice. Then, layer on the steamed broccoli, julienned carrots, and avocado slices. These fresh veggies add a wonderful crunch and balance out the richness of the chicken and sauce.
Place the sliced chicken on top of the veggies and rice. Pour the honey garlic sauce generously over the chicken and veggies, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Step 4: Serving and Enjoying
Your honey garlic chicken bowl is now ready to be enjoyed! This dish is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors only get better the next day. It’s a wholesome, balanced meal that’s both filling and nutritious. Plus, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.
