Description
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a delightful and easy-to-make recipe: the Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bowl. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet packed with flavors. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or just love a good chicken recipe, this sweet and spicy combo is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get started on this flavor-packed journey!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/3 cup chipotles in adobo sauce (chipotles roughly chopped; use more or less to taste)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne powder (optional, adjust for more heat)
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (more to taste)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Hot sauce, to taste
- 8 ounces Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño, trimmed and minced
- 1/3 cup cilantro, loosely packed and minced
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like canola or vegetable oil)
- 1 yellow onion, peeled and sliced into half-moons
- 1 14.5-ounce can black beans, drained
- 1 14.5-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For serving: Cooked white rice, radishes, avocado, and lime wedges
Optional Substitutions:
- Chicken thighs can be substituted with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Maple syrup can be swapped for honey if you prefer a lighter sweetness.
- Cayenne powder can be omitted for a milder version of the dish.
- Replace Brussels sprouts with cabbage or your preferred greens.
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Gather the chipotles with their sauce in a large bowl along with maple syrup and lime juice. Whisk to combine.
- Add the chicken thighs and season with salt, chili powder, garlic powder, and cayenne powder. Toss to coat.
- Cover the bowl and marinate for at least 1 hour up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Slaw
- While the chicken marinates, whisk together the vinegar, maple syrup, and mayonnaise in a bowl until smooth.
- Add a few splashes of hot sauce to taste.
- In a separate bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, jalapeño, and cilantro. Toss with a big pinch of salt.
- Pour the dressing on top and mix well. Refrigerate until needed.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften.
- Turn the heat to high and add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet along with the onions.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes until it begins to char slightly.
- Flip the chicken and add the black beans, tomatoes, and water or chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 40–50 minutes.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is fully cooked through, shred each thigh with two forks.
- Toss the shredded chicken back in the sauce and cook for 5 minutes more to let the flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Equipment

2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Tip 1: For extra tenderness, let the chicken marinate overnight.
- Tip 2: If you prefer a smokier flavor, add a splash of liquid smoke to the marinade.
- Tip 3: Use fire-roasted tomatoes to enhance the smoky notes of the dish.