Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a flavor explosion that'll have your taste buds dancing! These Honey Chipotle Chicken Bowls are not just a meal—they're a culinary adventure that combines the smoky heat of chipotle, the sweet embrace of honey, and a tangy lime tahini dressing that will make you forget about takeout forever. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious, proving that healthy eating can be mind-blowingly exciting!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp chipotle sauce
- 2 cups quinoa, cooked
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by trimming any excess fat and patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey and chipotle sauce to create a marinade. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in the honey chipotle marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should have a golden-brown caramelized exterior.
- While chicken is cooking, prepare the lime tahini dressing by whisking together tahini, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Let the cooked chicken rest for 3-5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
- Assemble bowls by placing cooked quinoa as the base, topping with sliced honey chipotle chicken.
- Drizzle lime tahini dressing generously over the chicken and quinoa.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Tips
- Marination is Key: Let the chicken marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure deep flavor penetration.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Quinoa Perfection: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove any bitter coating and ensure fluffy texture.
- Dressing Hack: If tahini dressing is too thick, thin it with a little water or extra lime juice.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for quick lunches.
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado, roasted vegetables, or a sprinkle of toasted seeds for extra crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg