Last updated on December 29, 2025

There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into a sweet and savory Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowl. I automatically think back to those busy weekdays when I’d rush home after work, craving something warm and delicious. The best part? I wouldn’t have to think too hard about dinner because these meal prep bowls have everything I need in one delightful package! But maybe you’ve had that moment too—standing in the kitchen, feeling a little overwhelmed by the thought of preparing a meal, wondering if you could pull it off without a hitch. If you’ve ever felt nervous about cooking chicken or felt like your veggies just don’t come out right, don’t worry. This post will make it simple, stress-free, and absolutely doable—even if it’s your very first try!

Why I Love This Recipe of Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

This recipe of Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls holds a special place in my heart because of its blend of flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully to create a satisfying meal. There’s just something about the sticky sweetness of honey combined with the savoriness of soy sauce that makes my taste buds dance! Plus, it’s so versatile. I love that I can prepare it in advance, and when those late afternoons hit, all I need to do is grab a bowl out of the fridge.

For beginner cooks, this recipe is a true gem. It doesn’t require advanced culinary skills but still yields a yummy, homemade meal. The cozy fall vibes from the roasted Brussels sprouts, the crunch from the snow peas, and the lightness of the jasmine rice create a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, you can feel proud serving these vibrant bowls for dinner, knowing you made it from scratch!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

When it comes to making Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls, having the right ingredients set you up for success. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

Essentials:

1/3 cup cornstarch: This helps create that crispy coating on the chicken that gives it a satisfying crunch.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for that savory depth of flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the overall taste.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: For a gentle kick!
2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed (about 3 cups or 1 1/2 lbs): The star of the show, providing protein and heartiness.
1/4 cup avocado oil: Great for cooking due to its high smoke point and health benefits.
1/3 cup honey: For the sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements.
1 Tablespoon tomato paste: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
1 Tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce/coconut aminos): For an umami flavor; tamari works well for a gluten-free option.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: For a nutty essence that enhances the whole dish.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a touch of warmth.
1/4 teaspoon salt: One more dash of salt for seasoning.
1 Tablespoon sesame seeds: For a delightful crunch and garnish.
1 cup jasmine rice: A perfect base that brings all the elements together.
1 teaspoon lime juice: Freshness that brightens the entire meal.
Gradual additions of avocado oil for frying the vegetables.
1 cup snow peas: Crisp and refreshing addition.
2 cups halved Brussels sprouts: A hearty veggie that roasts beautifully.
1 cup shredded carrots: For color and natural sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A little extra for seasoning the veggies.
1/2 teaspoon salt: To season the stir-fried vegetables.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: For flavor.
1 green onion stalk, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor to the bowls.

Optional Add-Ons:

Bell Peppers: Add any color of bell pepper for sweetness and crunch.
Broccoli Florets: A delightful addition for a little extra fiber and color.
Peanuts or Cashews: Sprinkle on top for an extra crunch and nuttiness.

Substitutions and Shortcuts:

If you don’t have avocado oil, you can use olive oil or canola oil in a pinch.
For a quicker prep time, rotisserie chicken could work instead of fresh chicken breasts—just toss them with the sauce!
If jasmine rice is unavailable, any medium-grain white rice will suffice.
For a gluten-free option, stick to tamari instead of soy sauce.

How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls Step-by-Step

Ready to dive into the heart of this dish? Here’s how to create your Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls step-by-step:

Coat the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Mix them together until well combined. Add your cubed chicken into the bowl, tossing until fully coated with the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture once we fry the chicken.
Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1/4 cup of avocado oil. Once your oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the skillet. Allow them to cook for about 5-8 minutes before gently flipping them over. Cook for another 5-8 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked through. Feel free to stir the chicken occasionally to break up any larger pieces.
Draining the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it onto a paper towel-lined plate to let any excess oil drizzle off. This helps keep your chicken crispy and not oily.
Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, grab a large bowl and mix together the honey, tomato paste, tamari, sesame oil, ground ginger, and the reserved 1/4 teaspoon salt. This sauce is what brings all the flavors together!
Coat the Chicken with Sauce: After the chicken has drained, dunk it into the bowl with the sauce and toss until the chicken is completely coated. The sweet and savory aroma will be enough to make your mouth water at this point!
Cook the Vegetables: Add a bit more avocado oil into the skillet and bring it back to heat. Add in the snow peas and Brussels sprouts, cooking for about 15 minutes until they’re tender. After the first 10 minutes, toss in your shredded carrots along with an additional 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper for seasoning. Stir everything occasionally for another 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Prepare the Rice: While the veggies are cooking, don’t forget to prepare the jasmine rice according to package instructions. Once it’s done, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of lime juice and fluff it up with a fork. It should be light, fluffy, and zesty, adding yet another dimension of flavor!
Assemble the Bowls: Now it’s time for the fun part. Start by evenly dividing the rice between your meal prep containers. Then layer in the cooked chicken and the sautéed veggies. Garnish each bowl with chopped green onions and don’t forget to drizzle a little extra sauce over the top. This finishing touch makes all the difference!

And there you have it—beautifully vibrant Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls that are not only delicious but also satisfying to look at!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to creating your own Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls, there are a few common pitfalls that can easily be avoided. Here are some helpful tips:

Not Coating the Chicken Properly

One of the frequent mistakes beginners make is not ensuring the chicken is well coated in the cornstarch mixture. This coating is what gives the chicken that delightful crunch when cooked. Make sure to toss the cubed chicken until it’s thoroughly coated.

Overcrowding the Pan

When you frying the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. If the pieces are too close together, they will steam instead of fry, leading to a soggy texture rather than the crispy goodness we want. Cook in batches if necessary!

Skipping the Draining Step

It’s tempting to skip the step of draining the chicken on paper towels, especially if you’re short on time. However, this is essential for ensuring that the chicken stays crispy and not greasy. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

Serving Suggestions for Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

These Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls are already a complete meal on their own, but there are plenty of ways to serve and enjoy them even more!

Pairing with Fresh Greens

Consider serving alongside a light side salad. A crunchy cucumber salad or a simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can complement the cozy warmth of the meal. The bright flavors of the salad add a refreshing touch.

Customizing the Bowls

Feel free to customize these meal prep bowls according to your taste. If you’re a fan of spice, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for a little kick! You can also swap out the veggies based on what you have on hand; broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas can all be great additions.

Serving Over Quinoa

For a twist, consider serving the chicken and veggies over cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice. Quinoa brings a nutty flavor and adds more protein, while cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb option!

Conclusion

As you can see, creating delicious Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls is easier than it looks. You can customize them to suit your tastes and dietary needs, making them a versatile option for lunches or dinners. With just a bit of preparation, you’ll have a cozy, classic meal that’s incredibly satisfying, no matter your cooking experience level.

I hope you’re inspired to give this recipe a try; it’s beginner-approved and will become a regular feature in your meal prep routine!

FAQs About Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

What are Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls?

These are delicious meal prep containers that include cooked chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey sauce, served with jasmine rice and a variety of sautéed vegetables.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can use tofu, shrimp, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly for each protein.

How long can these meal prep bowls be stored in the fridge?

The meal prep bowls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to keep the sauce separate if you want to maintain the chicken’s crispiness.

Can I make these bowls vegan?

Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas and use maple syrup instead of honey. You can also use coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

What veggies can I add to Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls?

Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, broccoli, zucchini, or even shredded cabbage would work wonderfully in this dish!

Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

Why I Love This Recipe of Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls