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This spicy honey glazed chicken has become my secret weapon for those busy nights when I need something delicious on the table fast. The perfect balance of sweet honey and spicy chili creates a caramelized glaze that transforms simple chicken into something extraordinary—and all in just 25 minutes!
I first created this recipe when my sister dropped by unexpectedly for dinner, and it's been requested at nearly every family gathering since. Something about that sticky, spicy-sweet glaze just keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs stay juicier and are more forgiving if slightly overcooked
- Honey: Provides natural sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramelization
- Soy sauce: Adds umami depth. I recommend low sodium so you can control the saltiness
- Fresh garlic cloves: Bring essential aromatic flavor that powdered simply cannot match
- Chili flakes or hot sauce: For that perfect kick of heat. Adjust according to your spice preference
- Olive oil: For searing. Choose a good quality one for the best flavor
- Black pepper: Adds another layer of subtle heat and complexity
- Fresh parsley: Optional but adds a pop of color and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels this ensures proper browning. Cut into evenly sized pieces about 1 inch each for quick and uniform cooking. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that golden sear rather than steaming the meat.
- Make the Glaze:
- Combine honey soy sauce minced garlic chili flakes and black pepper in a bowl and whisk thoroughly until well incorporated. The consistency should be smooth with the honey fully dissolved into the soy sauce. This can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding the pan work in batches if necessary. Let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until deeply golden before flipping. This patience creates that gorgeous caramelization.
- Add the Honey Glaze:
- Pour your prepared sauce over the chicken and toss to coat every piece. Reduce heat to medium low and let the mixture simmer gently. The sauce will begin to bubble and thicken as the sugars in the honey start to caramelize. This transformation takes about 5 minutes.
- Caramelize the Sauce:
- Keep stirring frequently to prevent burning while allowing the sauce to reduce and coat the chicken. The glaze should become sticky and coat the back of a spoon. When the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking you know it is ready.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove from heat immediately to prevent the sauce from burning. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while still hot and glossy.
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The first time I made this dish, I accidentally doubled the honey and discovered it created an amazing extra-thick glaze that my husband now requests specifically. Sometimes the best cooking discoveries happen by mistake! The caramelization of the honey creates these incredible flavor notes that simply can't be achieved any other way.
How To Store Leftovers
This chicken reheats beautifully, which makes it perfect for meal planning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to a skillet and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The water helps revive the sauce and prevents the chicken from drying out. For lunches, I often slice the cold chicken and add it to salads or wrap it in lettuce leaves with some thinly sliced vegetables for a no-heat option.
Perfect Pairings
The versatility of this spicy honey glazed chicken makes it a fantastic partner for numerous sides. For a complete meal, serve it over fluffy jasmine rice or cauliflower rice that will soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy provide a crisp contrast to the tender chicken. For a more substantial dinner, I love serving it with coconut rice and a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar. The cooling cucumber balances the spice perfectly.
Common Substitutions
This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. If honey isn't an option, maple syrup creates a different but equally delicious flavor profile. No fresh garlic? Garlic powder works in a pinch—use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove. For a soy-free version, coconut aminos make an excellent substitute with a slightly sweeter taste. Vegetarians can apply this same glaze to firm tofu or tempeh with fantastic results. Just be sure to press and thoroughly dry the tofu before cooking.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this dish?
Yes, absolutely! While the recipe works with both chicken thighs and breasts, thighs tend to stay more juicy and flavorful. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- → How spicy is this dish and can I adjust the heat level?
The spice level is moderate as written with 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes. You can easily adjust to your preference by reducing the chili flakes for a milder version or increasing them for more heat. Substituting the chili flakes with your favorite hot sauce is another great way to customize the spice level.
- → What sides pair well with this chicken?
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. For vegetables, try steamed broccoli, roasted brussels sprouts, or a simple salad. The sweet and spicy glaze also makes it perfect for wraps or lettuce cups with some fresh vegetables and herbs.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This chicken reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until just warmed through.
- → Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version. Double-check that your hot sauce is also gluten-free if you're using that instead of chili flakes. All other ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or sliced carrots make excellent additions. Add quick-cooking vegetables during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking time, or pre-cook harder vegetables before adding them to the glazed chicken. The honey-soy glaze works wonderfully with a variety of vegetables.