This Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, served over rich, cheesy, and creamy rice. It’s the perfect comfort meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make—ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it combines two irresistible elements: flavorful honey garlic chicken and velvety, cheesy rice. The sauce is sticky and slightly tangy, while the rice is creamy and rich with a blend of mozzarella, cream cheese, and Parmesan. It’s a dish that delivers a restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort, and it’s ready in under 40 minutes. Plus, it’s family-friendly and pairs perfectly with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Bites

1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
6 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon butter

For the Creamy Rice

1½ cups jasmine or white rice
3 cups chicken broth
¼ cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

In a large pot, combine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Once the rice is cooked, stir in butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Keep warm.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken bites with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 12–15 minutes.
Push the chicken to one side of the pan. Add butter and minced garlic to the empty side. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Mix everything together and simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.
To serve, spoon creamy rice onto plates and top with honey garlic chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Different Protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
Brown Rice Option: Substitute jasmine rice with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
Low-Dairy Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the cheese for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and rice separately in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from thickening too much or the cheese from separating.

FAQs

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Allow the sauce to simmer for an extra minute or two until it reduces to your desired consistency.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay juicy.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice provides the best texture and aroma, but any long-grain white rice will do.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook both components ahead and reheat before serving, though the sauce is best made fresh for peak flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce to make the dish fully gluten-free.

Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey in equal amounts.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a light green salad.

How can I prevent the rice from sticking?

Make sure to cook the rice over low heat and fluff it with a fork before adding creamy ingredients.

Can I freeze leftovers?

You can freeze the chicken separately, but the rice is best enjoyed fresh due to its creamy texture.

How do I keep the chicken tender?

Avoid overcooking—remove from heat as soon as the chicken is cooked through and still juicy.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that combines sweet, savory, and creamy elements in perfect harmony. With minimal prep time and everyday ingredients, it’s a recipe that elevates a simple dinner into something special. Serve it fresh, enjoy the rich flavors, and watch it become a family favorite.

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Over Creamy Rice Recipe