Description
These Honey Chipotle Chicken Rice Bowls feature tender chicken breasts marinated in a sweet and smoky chipotle honey sauce, seared to lock in flavor, then oven-baked to perfection. Served over warm cooked rice and topped with a rich chipotle honey drizzle and fresh cilantro, this dish offers a delicious balance of smoky heat and subtle sweetness in a simple, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
Base and Garnish
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Make Marinade: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix honey, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cumin to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the honey chipotle marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook Rice: Prepare rice according to package directions and keep it warm for serving.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the marinated chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a golden crust.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the skillet with seared chicken to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.
- Prepare Sauce: Meanwhile, take the remaining half of the honey chipotle marinade and simmer it in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens into a glaze.
- Slice Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest briefly, then slice it into pieces for serving.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly into two bowls. Top with sliced chicken and drizzle generously with the thickened honey chipotle sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over each bowl for a fresh, herbal finish and serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer than 30 minutes will deepen the flavors.
- Use cooked rice of your choice: white, brown, or jasmine rice work well.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the chipotle peppers or remove the seeds before mixing.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safe consumption.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option, adjusting cooking time as necessary.
