This Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines tender, sticky-sweet chicken bites with rich, cheesy, and creamy rice. Perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress, this recipe is packed with bold flavors and comforting textures. The honey garlic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tang, while the creamy rice ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Honey Garlic Chicken Bites:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Creamy Rice:
- 1½ cups jasmine or white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Creamy Rice
- In a large pot, combine the rice and chicken broth . Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes , or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the butter , heavy cream , cream cheese , mozzarella cheese , and Parmesan cheese . Stir until all the cheeses are melted and the rice becomes creamy.
- Season with salt , pepper , and Italian seasoning to taste. Keep warm while preparing the chicken bites.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bites
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat .
- Season the chicken bites with salt , black pepper , and garlic powder .
- Add the chicken to the skillet and sear until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C ), about 12–15 minutes . Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Push the cooked chicken to the sides of the skillet, creating space in the center.
- Add the butter and minced garlic to the center of the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds , or until fragrant.
- Pour in the honey , soy sauce , and apple cider vinegar . Stir everything together, coating the chicken evenly in the glaze. Simmer for 2–3 minutes , allowing the sauce to thicken and become sticky.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Spoon the creamy rice onto plates or bowls.
- Top the rice generously with the honey garlic chicken bites , ensuring each serving gets plenty of the sticky glaze.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This dish is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors. The honey garlic glaze adds a delightful stickiness to the tender chicken bites, while the creamy rice provides a luxurious base that complements the dish beautifully. It’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh garlic : Freshly minced garlic gives the dish a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.
- Adjust sweetness : If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey to 3 tablespoons and adjust to taste.
- Make it gluten-free : Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the rice if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for an elegant touch.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes on top for added flavor and flair.
Enjoy this Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice —a rich, indulgent, and comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!