The first time I tried a hot honey chicken plate at Sweetgreen, I was blown away by the burst of flavors—spicy, sweet, and utterly savory. Inspired, I decided to recreate that mouthwatering dish at home, taking full advantage of fresh ingredients and my love for homemade meals. A little marinating here, a dash of seasoning there, and soon I had transformed straightforward chicken breasts into a blackened delight that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
This Blackened Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Cabbage-Carrot Slaw is a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly replaces unhealthy fast food choices, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, with its vibrant colors and hearty textures, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. Drizzled with a bold honey dressing that strikes the perfect balance between heat and sweetness, this recipe is not just easy to whip up but also filled with wholesome goodness that keeps me feeling energized. Let’s dive into making this delicious hot honey chicken plate that will have your family begging for seconds!
Why will you love Hot Honey Chicken Plate?
Flavor Explosion: Tender, blackened chicken paired with sweet potatoes offers a delightful medley of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Quick & Easy: In just 1.5 hours, you can create a wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with veggies like cabbage and carrots, this dish ensures you’re eating well without sacrificing taste.
Versatile Delight: Perfectly adaptable, you can easily swap chicken for legumes or add other seasonal veggies.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether hosting friends or a family dinner, this colorful plate is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Elevate your dining experience by trying this recipe! You’ll experience a homemade dish that easily rivals takeout, perfect for any day of the week.
Hot Honey Chicken Plate Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken breast or thighs – 2 pounds of your preferred cut for tenderness and juiciness.
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons to help marinate and retain moisture.
- Balsamic vinegar – 1 tablespoon adds a tangy depth that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Kosher salt – 2 teaspoons enhance flavors and bring out the best in the meat.
- Chili powder – 2 teaspoons bring heat and complexity to your dish.
- Black pepper – 1 teaspoon for a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
- Cumin – ½ heaping teaspoon adds an earthy warmth to the spice blend.
- Coriander – ½ teaspoon for a hint of citrus flavor.
- Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon for added spiciness; adjust to taste.
For the Sweet Potatoes
- Sweet potatoes – 1 pound, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon for crisping up the sweet potato rounds.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
- Onion powder – ½ teaspoon adds a subtle, savory depth.
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon brings out even more flavor in the sweet potatoes.
- Chili powder – ½ teaspoon ties the flavors back to the chicken with warm spice.
- Nutritional yeast – ½ teaspoon for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
For the Slaw
- Cabbage – 4 cups, shredded for crunch and an array of nutrients.
- Shredded carrot – 1 ½ cups provides sweetness and vibrant color.
- Mayonnaise – ¼ cup for creaminess that binds the slaw ingredients together.
- Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon adds a sharp tang that brightens the slaw.
- Honey – 1 tablespoon introduces a touch of sweetness to balance the tang.
- Apple cider vinegar – 2 tablespoons gives a refreshing acidity.
- Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon to taste, bringing all the flavors together.
- Dried parsley – 1 teaspoon for a pop of herby freshness.
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon for an added kick.
- Juice of lime – Juice of ½ lime to brighten up the slaw.
For the Quinoa
- Quinoa – 1 ½ cups, rinsed to remove bitterness and provide a protein-packed base.
- Vegetable or chicken broth/stock – 3 cups for extra flavor infusion while cooking the quinoa.
With these ingredients, you’ll build a sensational Hot Honey Chicken Plate that will make any meal feel special!
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Plate
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Marinate the chicken. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and spices. Toss in the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to enhance flavor.
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Roast the sweet potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Wash and cut sweet potatoes into 1″ rounds, then quarter them. Toss with olive oil and spices, and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway for an even crisp.
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Cook the quinoa. In a saucepan, add rinsed quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, cooking according to package directions—usually about 15 minutes until fluffy.
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Prepare the slaw. Thinly slice the cabbage and mix it with shredded carrots and slaw ingredients in a bowl. Toss well to combine, ensuring all components are coated nicely.
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Cook the chicken. Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes on one side or until blackened. Flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into 1″ pieces.
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Make the hot honey dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
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Assemble your plate. On each plate, layer 1 cup of quinoa, pieces of chicken, a serving of roasted sweet potatoes, and ½ cup of slaw. Drizzle with hot honey dressing and, if desired, top with crispy shallots for added texture.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Hot Honey Chicken Plate Variations
Feel free to experiment and create your own twist on this delicious dish!
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Spicy Kick: Add extra jalapeños to the slaw for a zesty heat that pairs perfectly with the sweet potatoes. A little extra flavor goes a long way!
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Nutty Crunch: Top your slaw with toasted sesame seeds or slivered almonds for an added crunch and richer texture. They introduce a hint of nuttiness that complements the overall dish beautifully.
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Herbaceous Twist: Mix in fresh cilantro or parsley into the slaw for even more flavor. These herbs will brighten the dish and provide a lovely fresh note.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version that’s just as satisfying. Just make sure to adjust the marinating time accordingly to enhance the flavors!
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Sweet Potato Alternatives: Try using butternut squash or parsnips in place of sweet potatoes for a unique flavor profile. Each alternative brings its special sweetness and texture, making this meal endlessly customizable.
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Extra Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini into the roasting mix for more colors and nutrients. These vibrant vegetables will add freshness and a slight crunch.
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Citrusy Zing: Squeeze extra lime juice over the assembled plate just before serving. It elevates flavors and awakens the taste buds, offering a refreshing burst!
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Creamy Dressing: Swap out the mayonnaise in the slaw with avocado or a dairy-free yogurt for a creamier texture. This twist not only enhances creaminess but also adds healthy fats!
Dive into these variations and create your perfect Hot Honey Chicken Plate masterpiece!
How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken Plate
Fridge: Store the assembled plate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and sweet potatoes separate from the slaw to maintain crunch.
Freezer: For best results, freeze the marinated chicken and sweet potatoes in individual portions. They can last up to 3 months! Thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: Reheat chicken and sweet potatoes in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Refrain from microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Slaw: Avoid freezing the slaw since the texture might change upon thawing. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days for the best freshness.
What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Plate?
Create an unforgettable dining experience by complementing your vibrant hot honey chicken plate with delicious side dishes that balance flavors and textures.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunch and garlicky goodness of garlic bread make for a comforting side that’s perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
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Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a fresh, earthy flavor, creating a beautiful contrast to the spiciness of the chicken.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A classic side with a creamy texture, coleslaw can enhance the meal with its coolness and crunch, adding variety to each bite.
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Sauteed Green Beans: These vibrant beans bring a snap of freshness and can be tossed in lemon juice for a zesty kick, brightening up the plate.
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Zesty Corn Salad: A colorful mix featuring corn, tomatoes, and fresh herbs provides a sweet and tangy explosion that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
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Peach Iced Tea: Serve this refreshing drink to balance the heat of the dish, creating a beautifully harmonious meal experience.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: As a light and decadent dessert, this mousse pairs wonderfully with the flavors of your main dish, leaving everyone satisfied.
Mix and match these accompaniments to elevate your hot honey chicken experience into a memorable feast!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Plate
- Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight; it enhances tenderness and spice absorption.
- Even Cooking: Ensure sweet potato pieces are cut uniformly for even roasting. This prevents some from being undercooked while others are overdone.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid dry chicken, check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooking can lead to tough bites!
- Customize Your Slaw: Feel free to add apples or nuts to the cabbage-carrot slaw for an extra crunch and layer of flavor that complements the hot honey chicken plate.
- Flavor the Quinoa: Cooking quinoa in broth instead of water adds depth; you won’t regret this subtle enhancement!
- Sauce Control: Adjust the hot honey dressing’s spice level by reducing or increasing red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Chicken Plates are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time; just coat it well in the marinade, cover tightly, and refrigerate. The sweet potatoes can also be roasted up to 3 days in advance—simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their delicious texture. For optimal freshness, prepare the slaw and quinoa on the day you intend to serve; however, the slaw dressing can be mixed ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, warm the chicken and sweet potatoes in the oven and assemble your plates for a quick, nutritious meal that’s just as delightful as fresh!
Hot Honey Chicken Plate Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe chicken breast or thighs?
Absolutely! Look for chicken that’s pale pink in color with a firm texture. Avoid any pieces with dark spots or an unpleasant odor, as these signals indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftovers from the Hot Honey Chicken Plate?
You can store the assembled plate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness and crunch of the slaw, I recommend storing the slaw separately from the chicken and sweet potatoes.
Can I freeze the components of the Hot Honey Chicken Plate?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken and roasted sweet potatoes! Portion them out into freezer-safe bags or containers and they will last for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. For freezing, it’s best to skip the slaw, as the texture won’t hold up well after thawing.
What should I do if my chicken turns out dry?
To prevent dry chicken in the future, always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. Additionally, marinating for a longer time (up to 24 hours) can help the chicken stay juicy and flavorful. If it does come out dry, pair it with a bit of the hot honey dressing to enhance the moisture and flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Hot Honey Chicken Plate?
Definitely consider anyone with allergies to garlic or nuts. The recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted to accommodate dietary needs by swapping in alternative ingredients, such as vegan mayo for the slaw or using quinoa as a hearty grain option.
Hot Honey Chicken Plate: Sweetgreen Dupe You’ll Crave!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the chicken. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and spices. Toss in the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to enhance flavor.
- Roast the sweet potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Wash and cut sweet potatoes into 1" rounds, then quarter them. Toss with olive oil and spices, and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway for an even crisp.
- Cook the quinoa. In a saucepan, add rinsed quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, cooking according to package directions—usually about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- Prepare the slaw. Thinly slice the cabbage and mix it with shredded carrots and slaw ingredients in a bowl. Toss well to combine, ensuring all components are coated nicely.
- Cook the chicken. Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes on one side or until blackened. Flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into 1" pieces.
- Make the hot honey dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble your plate. On each plate, layer 1 cup of quinoa, pieces of chicken, a serving of roasted sweet potatoes, and ½ cup of slaw. Drizzle with hot honey dressing and, if desired, top with crispy shallots for added texture.