Experience the vibrant flavors of our Hot Honey Chicken Bowl – a delightful, Sweetgreen-inspired creation that’s absolutely incredible! While it might seem like a small project to bring all the components together, the effort is truly worth it, especially when you’re looking for the perfect dish to meal prep for a busy week.

Sweetgreen-Inspired Hot Honey Chicken Bowl: Your New Favorite Recipe

A few years ago, during a memorable girls’ trip to Los Angeles with my sisters, we stumbled upon a culinary gem: Sweetgreen. From our very first visit, we were completely captivated by their fresh, customizable bowls. No matter how many other exciting eateries we explored in LA, we found ourselves constantly drawn back to Sweetgreen, particularly to one standout menu item: their Hot Honey Chicken Bowl.

That delicious experience sparked a mission in my own kitchen. After countless attempts and meticulous adjustments, I’ve finally perfected a copycat version of that unforgettable Hot Honey Chicken Bowl. It’s so good, in fact, that my husband proudly declares it the best bowl recipe I make! While assembling all the individual components does require a little dedication, it’s a truly rewarding process. This recipe is ideal for a relaxed weekend cooking session or, even better, for powering through your week with pre-prepped, healthy meals. I am incredibly excited for you to try it and share your thoughts!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Hot Honey Chicken Bowl

This Hot Honey Chicken Bowl isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a complete culinary experience designed to delight your taste buds and simplify your life. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: It perfectly balances sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory notes. The tender hot honey chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, crisp slaw, and creamy, spicy sauce create a symphony of flavors that’s truly addictive.
• Customizable & Versatile: Love more heat? Add extra red pepper flakes! Prefer different greens? Swap out the cabbage! This bowl is a template for your creativity, allowing you to adjust ingredients to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences.
• Meal Prep Champion: Each component can be prepared in advance, making it an incredibly efficient option for healthy weekday lunches or quick dinners. Say goodbye to last-minute cooking stress!
• Wholesome & Satisfying: Packed with lean protein from chicken, complex carbohydrates from sweet potatoes and quinoa, and plenty of fresh vegetables, it’s a well-rounded meal that will keep you feeling full and energized.
• Sweetgreen Quality at Home: Recreate the gourmet, fresh-casual dining experience you love, right in your own kitchen, often at a fraction of the cost.

Hot Honey Chicken Bowl Ingredients: A Deep Dive

Crafting this incredible bowl relies on a thoughtful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Let’s break down each component and understand how it contributes to the overall magic of this dish:

For the Irresistible Hot Honey Chicken

• Chicken Thighs: We opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they are inherently more tender and flavorful than breasts, holding up beautifully to the marinade and cooking process. Their slightly higher fat content keeps them juicy, preventing dryness. Remember to trim any excess fat for more even cooking.
• Olive Oil: A staple in most kitchens, olive oil serves multiple purposes here. It helps the seasoning adhere perfectly to both the chicken and sweet potatoes, ensures even cooking, and adds a foundational richness to the flavor profile.
• Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient is key to adding a wonderful depth and subtle sweetness to the chicken marinade. Its tanginess also helps to tenderize the chicken and balances the other robust spices.
• Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Paprika: This blend of spices is what gives our chicken its bold, smoky, and slightly earthy character. Chili powder brings a warm heat, cumin adds an aromatic depth, garlic powder provides that essential savory note, and paprika contributes both color and a mild, sweet pepper flavor.

For the Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes

• Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, brightly colored sweet potatoes. The trick to perfect roasting is cutting them into uniform 1/4-inch thick half-moons. This ensures they cook evenly, becoming beautifully tender on the inside and deliciously crispy around the edges. Thinner pieces will achieve a crispier texture much faster. You can watch this video on how to cut uniform half-moons for guidance.
• Olive Oil & Spices (Chili Powder, Paprika, Cumin, Garlic Powder): Similar to the chicken, these ingredients coat the sweet potatoes, allowing them to caramelize and absorb those fantastic smoky and savory notes as they roast, creating a side dish that’s a star in its own right.

Crafting the Slaw and Signature Sauce

For the Tangy & Refreshing Slaw

• Red Cabbage and Carrots: This colorful duo forms the crunchy base of our slaw. You can save time by using pre-shredded varieties, or for maximum freshness and flavor, shred them yourself. The red cabbage adds a beautiful vibrant color and satisfying crunch, while carrots contribute a subtle sweetness and earthy undertone.
• Mayo and Yellow Mustard: The foundation of both our creamy slaw dressing and our signature hot honey sauce. Creamy mayonnaise provides richness, while tangy yellow mustard adds a bright, piquant kick. It’s crucial to use regular yellow mustard here, not Dijon, as its distinct flavor profile is essential for keeping the flavors in this Hot Honey Chicken Bowl strong and bright!
• Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey: Apple cider vinegar brings a crisp, tangy acidity that cuts through the richness of the mayo and balances the sweetness. Honey sweetens the slaw and dressing, perfectly offsetting the vinegary notes and any heat from the red pepper flakes. You can also use white sugar as an alternative to honey if preferred.

For the Signature Spicy-Sweet Sauce

• Mayo, Yellow Mustard, Honey: These ingredients are combined again to form the creamy, sweet, and tangy backbone of our hot honey sauce. The proportion here is slightly different to create a thicker, more assertive sauce that truly shines.
• Red Wine Vinegar: This adds another layer of complex acidity and a subtle fruity note to the sauce, enhancing its overall depth and ensuring it’s not overly sweet or heavy.
• Red Pepper Flakes: The star of the “hot” in Hot Honey! These flakes provide a customizable level of heat. We recommend starting with 1/2 teaspoon and adding more to taste if you desire a spicier kick.

Crafting Your Hot Honey Chicken Bowl: A Step-by-Step Guide

While this recipe features several components, each step is straightforward and contributes to an incredibly rewarding culinary experience. Here’s a detailed overview of how to bring your Hot Honey Chicken Bowls to life (the full recipe with precise measurements is included in the recipe card below):

1. Master the Flavorful Chicken

Begin by preparing your chicken thighs. Trim any excess fat and pat them thoroughly dry to ensure a good sear. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, allowing the flavors to penetrate. Then, generously sprinkle your blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika, along with a good amount of salt and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated. For the best crispy exterior, lay the chicken smooth-side down in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, making sure to flip halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before thinly slicing; this helps retain its juiciness.

2. Roast Sweet Potatoes to Perfection

Preheat your oven to a robust 425°F. In a large bowl, combine your uniformly cut sweet potato half-moons with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a sheet pan, ensuring they have enough space to crisp up. Roast for 27-35 minutes, flipping them every 10-15 minutes. This process allows them to become beautifully charred and fork-tender, with irresistible crispy edges.

3. Assemble the Vibrant Slaw

In a spacious bowl, whisk together the creamy mayonnaise, tangy yellow mustard, bright apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey until well combined. Season this dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Add your shredded red cabbage and carrots to the bowl, then toss thoroughly with tongs until every piece is coated in the vibrant dressing. Once mixed, chill the slaw until you’re ready to assemble your bowls; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

4. Whip Up the Signature Hot Honey Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, yellow mustard, honey, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Whisk vigorously until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. For the best flavor development, refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices and sweeteners to meld and deepen.

5. Build and Enjoy Your Bowl!

The exciting final step! Divide the warm, cooked quinoa evenly among four serving bowls. Artfully arrange the thinly sliced hot honey chicken, perfectly roasted sweet potatoes, and refreshing slaw over the quinoa. For an extra layer of texture and savory crunch, top your bowls with crispy fried onions, gently crushing them with your hands as you sprinkle them over. Finally, just before serving, generously drizzle with your homemade hot honey sauce. Dig in and savor every bite!

Storage and Meal Prep: Savor Your Hot Honey Chicken Bowls All Week

This Hot Honey Chicken Bowl is a dream for meal prepping! Preparing the components in advance means you can enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week with minimal effort. Here’s how to store each element for optimal freshness and flavor:

Smart Storage for Each Component

• Chicken: Once cooked and sliced, store the hot honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–5 days. For reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, until heated through.
• Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes can be stored in a separate airtight container in the fridge for 3–5 days. They are incredibly versatile; reheat them in the oven for crispness, on the stovetop, or quickly in the microwave. Alternatively, they are surprisingly delicious enjoyed cold straight from the fridge!
• Slaw: If you plan to eat the slaw within 1-2 days, you can store it dressed in an airtight container in the fridge. For longer storage (up to 4 days), it’s best to keep the dressing separate from the shredded cabbage and carrots. Simply combine and toss them together just before serving to prevent sogginess and maintain that satisfying crunch.
• Sauce: The hot honey sauce stores beautifully! Transfer it to a jar with a tight-fitting lid and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a good stir before each use, as some separation may occur.
• Quinoa: Cook your quinoa according to package directions and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave with a tablespoon of water or broth to rehydrate before serving.

Pro Meal Prep Tips for Ultimate Convenience

For the freshest and most satisfying experience, especially when meal prepping, assemble your bowls without the sauce. Store each individual bowl in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply add the hot honey sauce just before serving. This prevents the other ingredients from getting soggy and ensures the sauce retains its optimal texture and flavor. You can also pack a small container of sauce separately to drizzle right before enjoying your meal!

Variations & Customizations: Make Your Hot Honey Chicken Bowl Your Own!

One of the best things about this Hot Honey Chicken Bowl recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Protein Swaps: Not a fan of chicken thighs? Boneless, skinless chicken breast can be used, though it might be slightly less juicy. You could also try pan-seared tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option, or even shrimp for a seafood twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Grain Alternatives: While quinoa is a fantastic base, feel free to substitute with brown rice, farro, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Veggie Boost: Add more greens to your slaw like thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even some chopped kale for extra nutrients and crunch. Roasted broccoli or asparagus would also be delicious alongside the sweet potatoes.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Easily adjust the heat in the sauce by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes. For a milder version, omit them entirely. For an extra kick, a dash of cayenne pepper can be added to the chicken marinade.
• Herbs & Garnish: Fresh cilantro or parsley chopped and sprinkled over the top can add a burst of freshness. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving can also brighten all the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breasts are leaner and may dry out more easily. Adjust air frying or baking times as needed, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No problem! You can easily bake the chicken in the oven. Refer to “Note 1” in the recipe card instructions for detailed oven-baking directions, which often involves baking and then a quick broil for that desirable caramelized char.

How can I make the hot honey sauce spicier?

To increase the heat, simply add more red pepper flakes to the sauce, tasting as you go until you reach your desired spice level. A pinch of cayenne pepper could also be used.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for pan-fried tofu, tempeh, or roasted chickpeas. For a vegan option, use a vegan mayonnaise alternative for both the slaw and sauce, and ensure your honey is substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.

How do I prevent the slaw from getting soggy during meal prep?

The best way to prevent soggy slaw is to store the dressing separately from the shredded cabbage and carrots. Mix them just before you’re ready to eat your meal. This keeps the vegetables crisp and fresh.

Hot Honey Chicken Bowl

By Chelsea Lords

Sweetgreen who? This Hot Honey Chicken Bowl delivers big flavors and meal prep perfection. A labor of love, but every bite is worth it!

Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Servings: 4 bowls

Equipment

• Air fryer (or cook chicken in oven, see note below)
• Sheet pan (15″ x 10″)

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 3 thighs)
• 4 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 1-1/4 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes

• 2 pounds (3 large) sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick half moons (approximately 6 cups)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Slaw

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or white sugar
• 3 cups red cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Hot Honey Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 3 tablespoons yellow mustard (not Dijon)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (depending on your preferred heat level)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving

• 1 cup quinoa, prepared according to package directions
• Crispy fried onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken: Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and pat dry. In a bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar; toss to coat. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt (about 1 tsp), and pepper (about 3/4 tsp) over chicken. Toss again until evenly coated. Place flat, smooth-side down in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Rest chicken for 5 minutes, then thinly slice. (For oven instructions, see Recipe Note 1.)
2. Roast Sweet Potatoes: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt (about 3/4 tsp), and pepper (about 1/4 tsp). Spread in a single layer on a sheet pan. Bake for 27–35 minutes, flipping every 10–15 minutes, until charred and tender.
3. Mix Slaw: In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Season with salt (about 1/2 tsp) and pepper (about 1/4 tsp). Add shredded red cabbage and carrots; toss with tongs to coat. Chill until ready to serve.
4. Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayo, yellow mustard, honey, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste (about 1/4 tsp each). Whisk until smooth, then refrigerate to allow flavors to meld.
5. Assemble Bowls: Divide cooked quinoa among 4 bowls. Add the sliced hot honey chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and slaw. If using, top with crispy fried onions by crushing them over the bowls. Drizzle generously with the hot honey sauce just before serving. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: For oven-baked chicken:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare and season chicken as described in step 1.
3. Lay chicken thighs flat on the prepared sheet pan, ensuring they are spaced out, and bake for 15 minutes.
4. Move the oven rack to about 8 inches from the heat source, switch your oven to broil setting, and broil the chicken for 7–10 minutes until it develops a nice char and caramelization. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
5. Rest the chicken for 5–10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 880 kcal | Carbohydrates: 59.9g | Protein: 31.5g | Fat: 56.6g | Cholesterol: 105.8mg | Sodium: 931.5mg | Fiber: 10.1g | Sugar: 17.7g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.