Every family has a few meals that quietly become regulars on the weekly menu. They’re the dishes that are simple to cook, nourishing, and happily eaten by both adults and children. This Honey Soy Chicken with Sweet Potato, Peas and Rice is one of those dependable favourites.
With tender marinated chicken, naturally sweet vegetables and fluffy rice on the side, it’s a balanced meal that feels comforting and familiar. The honey soy marinade gives the chicken a gentle sweetness that children tend to enjoy, while still delivering plenty of flavour for grown-ups.
Serving the rice separately also gives little eaters a sense of independence at mealtime. They can build their own plate and choose how much of each component they’d like, which often encourages children to try a little bit of everything.
Meals like this remind us that family cooking doesn’t need to be complicated. A few simple ingredients, a little preparation ahead of time, and dinner comes together easily.
Serves 4
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 500–600 g chicken breast or thigh, diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1½ cups uncooked rice
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Honey Soy Marinade
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
Method
1. Marinate the chicken
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic and ginger. Add the diced chicken and mix well so it is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate overnight if possible, or for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the sweet potato
Place the cubed sweet potato into boiling water and cook for about 5–7 minutes until just beginning to soften. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the rice
Cook the rice according to packet instructions and keep warm.
4. Cook the peas
Cook peas in the microwave or in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until tender. Drain.
5. Cook the chicken
Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the sweet potato
Add the parboiled sweet potato and continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potato is tender.
7. Add the peas
Stir the peas through the chicken mixture until warmed.
8. Serve
Serve the chicken, sweet potato and peas with rice on the side.
Family Tip
Children often enjoy meals more when the flavours are familiar and slightly sweet. The honey soy marinade helps make the chicken appealing, which often means children are more likely to enjoy the vegetables served alongside it too.
