Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

Juicy, sticky honey garlic chicken bites served over a bed of rich, creamy, cheesy rice. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting hug in a bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet honey and savory garlic create a delightful balance that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Creamy Comfort: The cheesy rice adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a family dinner or serve it at gatherings. It’s sure to impress!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delectable recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the rice evenly with the flavorful chicken broth.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken bites and creating a beautiful glaze with the sauce.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Bites

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken thighs would also work beautifully if you prefer!)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (For searing that chicken to perfection.)
• salt and black pepper (to taste, always!)
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder (An extra punch of garlic flavor.)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced. Fresh garlic is key for that amazing aroma and taste.)
• 0.25 cup honey (The star of our sweet and sticky glaze.)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (Adds that essential umami depth.)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (For a touch of brightness and balance.)
• 1 tbsp butter (To finish off that luscious sauce.)

For the Creamy Rice

• 1.5 cups jasmine or white rice (Jasmine rice gives a lovely fragrant base.)
• 3 cups chicken broth (More flavorful than just water!)
• 1 cup heavy cream (For that luxurious, creamy texture.)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (Melts like a dream.)
• 0.5 cup cream cheese (softened. Helps make it extra smooth and rich.)
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Adds a salty, nutty kick.)
• 1 tbsp butter (For a little extra richness.)
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (A blend of herbs to elevate the flavor.)
• fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

In a large pot, combine your rice and chicken broth. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all liquid has been absorbed.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Base

Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter, heavy cream, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until everything is melted and gloriously creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cover to keep warm while you work on the chicken.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken bites with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Carefully place them in the hot skillet and sear until golden brown and cooked through—usually about 12–15 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Once cooked, push chicken bites to one side of the skillet. Add remaining butter and minced garlic to the center. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—do not let it burn! Pour in honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar; stir well. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Spoon creamy rice onto plates. Top generously with glistening honey garlic chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Enjoy your comforting meal!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

Serving Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice is all about presentation and enhancing the flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Plate It Up

• Arrange a generous scoop of creamy rice on each plate and top it with the honey garlic chicken bites, allowing the sauce to drizzle over the rice.

Garnish for Freshness

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and added freshness.

Add a Crunch

• Serve with crispy fried onions or sesame seeds sprinkled on top for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Accompany with Veggies

• Place a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans next to the dish for a pop of color and nutrition.

Offer Extra Sauce

• Serve some extra honey garlic sauce in a small bowl on the side for those who love an extra sticky glaze.

How to Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

Perfecting your Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice can take your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure every bite is delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and high-quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Sear Chicken Properly: Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken; this helps achieve a nice golden brown crust.
• Monitor Sauce Thickness: Keep an eye on the sauce while it simmers. You want it sticky but not too thick, so adjust cooking time as needed.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for varied flavors in your creamy rice.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

Pairing sides with Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement the dish well.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery garlic bread adds a delightful contrast to the creamy rice.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring sweetness and color, providing great texture alongside the chicken.
3. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots complements the sweet chicken perfectly, adding crunch and freshness.
4. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers refreshing acidity that balances out the richness of the rice.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add elegance and a slight crunch while being nutritious.
6. Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast that enhances the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making honey garlic chicken bites over creamy rice can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Failing to season your chicken bites can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking.
• Overcooking the rice: Overcooked rice becomes mushy. Always follow the ratio of rice to broth and the recommended cooking time for perfect texture.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter. Sauté it for only about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the other ingredients.
• Skipping the resting period: Letting your dish rest for a few minutes before serving allows flavors to meld. Don’t rush straight to plating after cooking.
• Using low-quality honey: The quality of honey impacts the sauce’s flavor. Opt for pure honey for a richer taste in your glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Honey garlic chicken bites over creamy rice can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• This dish freezes well for up to 2 months; ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making honey garlic chicken bites over creamy rice.

Can I use different kinds of rice?

Yes! While jasmine rice is recommended, you can use basmati or long-grain white rice as alternatives.

How can I customize the honey garlic chicken bites?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for extra nutrition and color!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Honey garlic chicken bites over creamy rice store well, making them great for meal prep throughout the week.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos as gluten-free alternatives that provide a similar umami flavor.

Final Thoughts

Honey garlic chicken bites over creamy rice are not just delicious; they offer versatility in both flavors and ingredients. You can easily tailor this dish to suit your preferences by adding vegetables or adjusting spices. Give it a try for an irresistible comfort meal perfect for any night of the week!

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Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice, a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory elements. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze, served atop a rich and cheesy rice base that adds comfort to any meal. This quick recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, offering wholesome ingredients that will please the whole family. With its vibrant presentation and customizable options, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings joy to the dining table.

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Ingredients

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• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 0.25 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1.5 cups jasmine or white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup cream cheese, softened
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine rice and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Stir in butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, mozzarella, and seasonings into cooked rice until creamy.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear until golden brown (12–15 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet; sauté briefly, then stir in honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Simmer until thickened (2–3 minutes).
5. Serve creamy rice topped with honey garlic chicken bites and garnish with parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 740mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 110mg