Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. This sets the stage for perfectly roasted sweet potatoes, which are the foundation of your bowls. A hot oven helps caramelize the sugars in the sweet potatoes, giving them a lovely flavor.
Step 2: Next, place the sweet potatoes on a large baking sheet. Ensure they’re in an even layer and not touching. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until they’re well coated. This will help achieve a nice golden color as they roast.
Step 3: Season the sweet potatoes with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. This simple seasoning will enhance their natural sweetness. Roast them for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through with a spatula. You want them to be tender and slightly caramelized when done.
Step 4: Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the hot honey, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper. This mixture is the key to flavorful chicken. Once everything is well combined, add the chicken and stir until it’s thoroughly coated.
Step 5: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken. You’ll want to cook it for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Once the sweet potatoes are roasted and tender, it’s time to assemble your bowls. Start with a base of arugula, then add a generous serving of the cooked chicken, followed by the roasted sweet potatoes.
Step 7: Next, add dollops of cottage cheese, diced cucumber, sliced avocado, and pickled red onions. Each ingredient contributes to the overall texture and flavor of the dish.
Step 8: If you like, sprinkle some corn salsa for added sweetness. Drizzle with hot honey for that sweet and spicy finish, and garnish with cilantro if desired.
Step 9: To take it a step further, consider drizzling with jalapeño ranch for extra creaminess. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Chicken Bowls!