Why Make This Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice is a delightful dish packed with flavor and comfort. This recipe combines tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, served over smooth, creamy rice. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option for busy weekdays. With its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, it’s both easy to make and a crowd-pleaser.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 1/2 cups jasmine or white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pot, add rice and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
2. Once the rice is done, stir in butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until everything is melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Keep warm.
3. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken bites with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 12-15 minutes.
4. Push the chicken to the sides of the skillet and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds, then pour in honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thick and sticky, coating the chicken.
5. Spoon the creamy rice onto plates and top with honey garlic chicken bites. Garnish with parsley.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

Serve the honey garlic chicken bites hot, over a generous scoop of creamy rice. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to balance the flavors.

How to Store Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best eaten within 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or stove—just add a splash of water or broth to the rice to prevent it from drying out.

Tips to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic will give the best flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not dry for the best texture.
3. Adjust Sweetness: You can modify the amount of honey based on your preference for sweetness.

Variation

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the chicken for more color and nutrition. Alternatively, use brown rice for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it before cooking for even results.

2. What can I substitute for honey?
You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.

3. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce to eliminate gluten.