Name: Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-486104H51M42S
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 jalapeño, sliced; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

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This Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavor-packed, vibrant meal that perfectly balances sweet, smoky, and spicy elements. Tender chicken breast is coated in a rich honey chipotle marinade, seared to perfection, and served over fluffy white rice with fresh toppings like avocado, jalapeños, and sautéed vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines nutritious ingredients with bold, irresistible flavor. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or a wholesome lunch. With customizable toppings and a fast cooking process, it offers the perfect balance of convenience and taste. The smoky chipotle and sweet honey combination makes this dish unforgettable.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
Honey
Olive oil
Garlic
Ground cumin
Salt
Cooked white rice
Avocado
Bell peppers (red and yellow)
Cherry tomatoes
Jalapeños
Fresh cilantro

directions

Blend chipotle peppers, honey, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt into a smooth marinade.
Coat the chicken with the marinade and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Grill or pan-sear the chicken until cooked through and slightly charred. Let it rest before slicing.
In a skillet, sauté diced bell peppers and cherry tomatoes until tender.
Slice fresh avocado and jalapeños.
Assemble the bowl: start with a bed of rice, then add sliced chicken, sautéed veggies, avocado, and jalapeños.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marination time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes

Variations

Substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier grain option.
Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
Drizzle with lime crema or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish.
Add shredded cheese or a fried egg for extra richness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Store avocado separately and slice fresh before serving again.

FAQs

What can I use instead of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?

You can substitute smoked paprika and cayenne pepper for a similar smoky heat, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the components can be prepared separately and assembled just before serving.

Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on the chipotle peppers and jalapeños. You can adjust the amount to control spiciness.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs will be juicier and just as flavorful.

How can I make this bowl low-carb?

Swap the rice with cauliflower rice or leafy greens.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it?

Yes, grilling will enhance the smoky flavor even more.

What’s the best way to slice the chicken?

Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking, then slice against the grain for tenderness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure the adobo sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What type of rice works best?

Long grain white rice or jasmine rice work best, but feel free to use your preferred variety.

Conclusion

The Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl is a dynamic, wholesome, and customizable dish that brings together bold flavors and nourishing ingredients. It’s ideal for any occasion—be it a quick family dinner or a meal prep option for the week. Enjoy the smoky sweetness and vibrant toppings with every bite.

Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl

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This Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowl features tender chicken marinated in a sweet and smoky honey chipotle sauce, served over white rice with fresh toppings like avocado, jalapeños, and sautéed vegetables.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilled or Pan-Seared
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Blend chipotle peppers, honey, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt into a smooth marinade.
Coat the chicken with the marinade and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Grill or pan-sear the chicken until cooked through and slightly charred. Let it rest before slicing.
In a skillet, sauté diced bell peppers and cherry tomatoes until tender.
Slice fresh avocado and jalapeños.
Assemble the bowl: start with a bed of rice, then add sliced chicken, sautéed veggies, avocado, and jalapeños.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.