Save to Pinterest This honey mustard chicken rice bowl brings together juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy glaze, heaps of vibrant raw and cooked vegetables, and fluffy steamed rice for a dinner that feels as cheerful as it tastes. I love whipping this up on busy evenings when I want something colorful, wholesome, and packed with contrasting textures all in one bowl.
My kids call this the rainbow dinner because of all the colors piled in each bowl. I started making it for meal prep but now it is a weeknight classic we all crave.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: lean source of protein that cooks up quickly look for firm meat with a pink hue for the freshest flavor
- Olive oil: adds richness while keeping the chicken juicy go for extra virgin for the brightest flavor
- Salt and black pepper: enhance every component and make sure each bite tastes just right use freshly cracked black pepper for an added pop
- Dijon mustard: gives the sauce a tangy sharpness choose one with clean ingredients for the best punch
- Whole grain mustard: brings gentle texture and a deep flavor that is less sharp than Dijon read labels to confirm gluten free if needed
- Honey: supplies the sauce with sweetness and shine opt for a light wildflower honey for a balanced taste
- Apple cider vinegar: lifts and balances the sauce use raw unfiltered for a hint of natural fruitiness
- Garlic: adds a savory backbone to the sauce choose fresh cloves for aromatic depth
- Smoked paprika: a smoky nuance that takes the glaze up a notch use Spanish or Hungarian varieties for best flavor
- Jasmine or basmati rice: aromatic and fluffy the perfect base for soaking up the glaze cook extra for future quick meals
- Red cabbage and carrots: add vibrant color crunch and a mild sweetness pick heads or bags with bright colors and no wilting
- Steamed broccoli: offers an earthy counterpoint and a dose of green look for tightly closed florets and crisp stems
- Cherry tomatoes: juicy pops of brightness halve them to keep the juices in each bowl balanced
- Parsley or cilantro: herbal freshness to finish brings the whole bowl together chop just before serving for maximum flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- In a small mixing bowl combine Dijon mustard whole grain mustard honey apple cider vinegar olive oil minced garlic and smoked paprika if using Whisk vigorously until completely smooth and glossy A good whisk matters here for a uniform glaze
- Season and Prep the Chicken:
- Lay chicken breast pieces on a cutting board Sprinkle both sides generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper Let rest for a few minutes while prepping your skillet to let the seasoning soak in
- Sauté the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high Add a tablespoon of olive oil Once hot add the seasoned chicken Spread chicken in an even layer Cook undisturbed for about three minutes then flip Let the pieces brown on all sides turning occasionally Cook for a total of six to eight minutes until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through
- Glaze the Chicken:
- Lower the skillet heat to medium Pour the honey mustard sauce over the hot chicken Stir until all pieces are coated with the sauce Let simmer for two to three minutes The sauce should begin to bubble and thicken slightly Remove the skillet from heat as soon as the sauce looks glossy and clings tightly to the chicken
- Assemble the Rice Bowls:
- Divide the cooked rice evenly among four serving bowls Arrange red cabbage shredded carrots steamed broccoli and halved cherry tomatoes in sections atop the rice Spoon the glazed chicken into the center letting the extra sauce drizzle over the veggies
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle each bowl with fresh parsley or cilantro if using Serve right away while everything is hot and vibrant Adjust salt or add a squeeze of fresh citrus if desired
Save to Pinterest This dish is my favorite use for a good local honey The way it melts into the mustard and clings to each chunk of chicken is simply irresistible The first time I made it for my family everyone fought over the glossy sauce left at the bottom of the bowl
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days The chicken and veggies can be reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave If making ahead for meal prep keep the veggies and chicken separate from the rice to prevent sogginess For freezing only the cooked chicken and sauce portion holds up well Thaw and reheat before assembling fresh bowls
Ingredient Substitutions
Boneless thighs can be used instead of breasts for an even juicier result For a vegetarian option swap chicken for chickpeas or roasted tofu Any cooked whole grain like brown rice or quinoa makes a sturdy base If you want extra heat add a whisk of hot sauce to the glaze Mix and match the veggies based on the season or what is in your fridge
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bowl warm or at room temperature with a lemon wedge or dash of hot sauce on the side For a more filling meal add a soft boiled egg or a handful of roasted chickpeas A crisp green salad or crunchy pickled cucumbers pair well on the side
Cultural Context
Rice bowls have endless variations across global cuisines This riff uses American style honey mustard for a nostalgic sweet tangy flavor that feels both classic and comforting The assembly style mimics popular bowls from fast casual restaurants making it a fun and approachable meal at home
Seasonal Adaptations
Fresh sugar snap peas and radishes in spring Grilled zucchini or corn in summer Roast sweet potatoes or delicata squash in autumn
Success Stories
Friends have brought this dish to potlucks and always come home with empty bowls One reader told me it is her five year olds favorite dinner and a regular entry in their school lunchbox lineup
Freezer Meal Conversion
Freeze cooked chicken tossed with sauce in individual portions Lay flat in freezer bags or containers When ready to eat thaw overnight and warm gently on the stove or microwave before assembling bowls with freshly cooked rice and vegetables
Save to Pinterest This bright rice bowl is a joy to eat and simple enough for any home cook Mix and match vegetables for your own twist and savor every glazed bite.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I make the chicken juicier?
Swap chicken breast for boneless thighs, which have more moisture and richness after cooking.
- → Are substitutions possible for the rice base?
Try cooked quinoa or brown rice for a whole-grain alternative and added nutrition.
- → Can I add extra vegetables or crunch?
Yes, sliced cucumbers or roasted chickpeas bring more texture and flavor. Mix in your favorites.
- → Is this bowl naturally gluten-free and dairy-free?
The dish is dairy-free, nut-free, and gluten-free if using certified gluten-free mustard.
- → What pairs well with this bowl for drinks?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or iced green tea complements the sweet and tangy flavors nicely.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.