Why Make This Recipe
Honey Pepper Chicken with Rice is a delicious and easy meal that brings together sweet and spicy flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have guests over. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy rice makes this dish satisfying and comforting. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken with Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white rice
- 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- Scallions for topping
Directions:
- Start cooking the rice so it’s done around the same time as the chicken.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken with 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and red bell pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes over medium heat.
- Add the honey and soy sauce and stir until a sauce forms and thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Serve over rice and sprinkle with chopped scallions.
How to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken with Rice
Honey Pepper Chicken with Rice is best served hot. Just scoop a generous portion of rice onto a plate, then top with the honey pepper chicken. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped scallions on top for added flavor and a pop of color. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
How to Store Honey Pepper Chicken with Rice
To store leftovers, let the chicken and rice cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and rice in suitable containers. It will keep for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Honey Pepper Chicken with Rice
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This helps it brown nicely.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to match your spice preference.
- If you like extra sauce, you can double the honey and soy sauce mixture for a more flavorful coating.
- Fresh ginger can also be added for an extra kick of flavor.
Variation
If you want to mix things up, you can add different vegetables such as carrots, snap peas, or broccoli to the dish. Feel free to swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for best results.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari sauce or a gluten-free soy sauce.
3. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can make Honey Pepper Chicken with Rice in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving for the best taste.
Honey Pepper Chicken with Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Start cooking the rice so it’s done around the same time as the chicken.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken with 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and red bell pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes over medium heat.
- Add the honey and soy sauce and stir until a sauce forms and thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Serve over rice and sprinkle with chopped scallions.