Spicy Garlic Chicken & Hummus Bowl
A 25-minute flavor bomb that’s as healthy as it is addictive.
Timing
This bowl comes together in just 25 minutes, which is 35% faster than the average meal-prep bowl. It’s the ultimate hack for a gourmet-style dinner on a hectic Tuesday night.
Ingredients List
- 2 Chicken Breasts: Diced into bite-sized, juicy morsels.
- 2 Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced for that pungent, aromatic base.
- 1 tbsp Tomato Paste: For a deep, umami richness and vibrant color.
- 1 tbsp Honey: Sweet nectar to caramelize the chicken and balance the heat.
- 1 tsp Chili Flakes: For a bold, fiery kick. (Sub: Aleppo pepper for a milder, smokier vibe).
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice: To cut through the honey and brighten the entire dish.
- Pantry Essentials: 1 tbsp Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: The Sizzle & Sear
Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning lightly with salt. Cook until it’s starting to turn golden and opaque—about 5-6 minutes.
Step 2: The Garlic Infusion
Toss in the minced garlic and chili flakes. Stir for exactly 60 seconds until the aroma fills your kitchen. Be careful not to burn the garlic; we want it fragrant, not bitter!
Step 3: Glaze to Perfection
Add the tomato paste, honey, and lemon juice. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken in a sticky, spicy, ruby-red coat. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 4: The Bowl Assembly
Spread a generous “swoosh” of hummus at the bottom of your bowl. Pile the spicy chicken on one side and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad on the other. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the hummus.
Nutritional Information
This bowl is a lean protein powerhouse, providing approximately 420 calories and 35g of protein. By using honey instead of refined sugar and hummus as a healthy fat source, this meal offers a sustained energy release without the “carb crash.”
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of a traditional grain base.
- Plant-Based: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or firm tofu—the spicy garlic glaze works beautifully with plant proteins!
- Sugar-Free: Use maple syrup or a dash of stevia if you are avoiding honey.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile. For a crowd, serve it “family style” with warm, toasted pita bread for dipping. For an extra crunch, top the bowl with pickled red onions or toasted pine nuts. It’s a visually stunning meal that resonates with anyone looking for a “clean” but flavorful dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Burning the Tomato Paste: Tomato paste has high sugar content. Ensure you stir it constantly once it hits the hot pan to avoid a burnt aftertaste.
- Crowding the Pan: If you cook too much chicken at once, it will steam instead of sear. Use a large skillet or cook in two batches for that perfect golden edge.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store the spicy chicken and the cucumber salad in separate containers. The chicken will stay juicy for up to 3 days in the fridge, but the salad is best when fresh. To reheat, microwave the chicken with a damp paper towel over it to keep it from drying out.
Conclusion
Bursting with garlic, honey-glazed spice, and fresh garden veggies, this bowl is a sensory delight. It’s fast, healthy, and guaranteed to become a weekly staple. Ready to get cooking? Try it tonight and let us know your favorite hummus flavor to pair it with in the comments!
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs?
A: Absolutely! Thighs are even more forgiving and will stay incredibly juicy in this spicy glaze.
Q: Is this very spicy?
A: It has a moderate kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with 1/2 tsp of chili flakes and adjust to your preference.
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