Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken

Let me tell you, this Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken recipe has become a staple in our home, and for good reason. It’s one of those dishes that strikes the perfect balance – effortlessly elegant enough for a weekend dinner party, yet simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. The first time I made it, the aroma alone had everyone gathered in the kitchen, noses twitching with anticipation. And the taste? Oh, the taste! The chicken is beautifully tender, coated in a luscious glaze that’s both sweet from the honey and fiery from the sriracha. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, devoured it, and my husband declared it “restaurant-worthy.” It’s a crowd-pleaser, plain and simple. Since then, it’s been requested countless times, and I’ve happily obliged. This recipe is not just about feeding your family; it’s about creating a moment of deliciousness that everyone can enjoy together. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!

Ingredients for Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken

• Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless): 2 lbs – The star of the dish, providing juicy and flavorful meat that absorbs the glaze beautifully. Thighs are preferred for their richness and ability to stay moist.
• Honey: ½ cup – The natural sweetener that creates the signature sticky and glossy glaze. Choose a good quality honey for the best flavor.
• Soy Sauce (low sodium): ¼ cup – Adds umami and saltiness, balancing the sweetness of the honey and enhancing the overall flavor profile. Low sodium is recommended to control the saltiness.
• Sriracha Sauce: 2-4 tablespoons (adjust to taste) – The source of the “spicy” kick. Start with 2 tablespoons for a mild heat and increase for a more intense spiciness.
• Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons – Provides a tangy acidity that cuts through the sweetness and richness of the glaze, adding complexity and balance.
• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves – Aromatic and pungent, garlic adds depth and savory notes to the glaze, complementing both the sweet and spicy elements.
• Ginger (freshly grated): 1 tablespoon – Offers a warm, zesty, and slightly spicy flavor that pairs wonderfully with honey and sriracha, adding another layer of complexity.
• Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon – Adds a nutty aroma and flavor, enhancing the Asian-inspired profile of the dish and providing a subtle richness.
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon – Used to thicken the glaze, creating a beautiful glossy and sticky texture that clings to the chicken.
• Water: 2 tablespoons – Helps to dissolve the cornstarch and create a smooth slurry for thickening the glaze.
• Sesame Seeds (for garnish, optional): 1 tablespoon – Adds a visual appeal and a subtle nutty crunch as a final touch.
• Green Onions (for garnish, optional): 2 stalks, thinly sliced – Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better and allows the glaze to adhere properly. If your chicken thighs are very thick, you can consider pounding them slightly to ensure even cooking.
2. Whisk Together the Glaze Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Ensure all ingredients are well combined and the honey is fully incorporated. Taste the glaze at this stage and adjust the sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness. Remember, the flavor will intensify slightly as it cooks down.
3. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and there are no lumps. This cornstarch slurry is crucial for thickening the glaze later on, giving it that perfect sticky consistency. Set aside.
4. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended for Best Flavor): Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of cooking oil (vegetable or canola oil works well). Once the pan is hot, add the chicken thighs in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned. Searing adds depth of flavor and color to the chicken, making it more visually appealing and tastier. You don’t need to cook the chicken through at this stage, just sear the outside. Remove the seared chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Sauté Aromatics (Optional, Enhances Flavor): If you seared the chicken, in the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a little more oil if needed. Sauté any remaining minced garlic and grated ginger from the glaze mixture for about 30 seconds to a minute, until fragrant. This step is optional but it further enhances the aromatic base of the glaze. Be careful not to burn the garlic and ginger.
6. Pour in the Glaze and Thicken: Pour the prepared honey-sriracha glaze into the skillet. Bring the glaze to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring constantly. Continue to stir as the glaze thickens. This should only take a minute or two. The glaze is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and has a glossy, slightly thickened consistency.
7. Add Chicken and Glaze: Add the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet with the thickened glaze. Make sure the chicken is coated evenly with the glaze.
8. Simmer and Cook Through: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the glaze for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The simmering time will depend on the thickness of your chicken thighs. Ensure the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of a thigh.
9. Glaze and Reduce (Optional for Extra Stickiness and Flavor Concentration): For an even more intense flavor and stickier glaze, you can remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to medium-low. Let the glaze reduce and further caramelize for another 2-5 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure it’s evenly coated and glazed. Be careful not to burn the glaze during this step. Watch it closely and reduce heat if needed.
10. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked and beautifully glazed, remove it from the heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, if desired.
11. Serve Hot: Serve the Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken immediately while it’s hot and the glaze is still glossy and sticky. It’s delicious served over rice, noodles, quinoa, or with roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Information for Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken

(Approximate values per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 chicken thigh with glaze
• Calories: ~450-550 calories per serving – Calories can vary based on portion size, specific ingredients used, and the amount of glaze consumed.
• Protein: ~35-40 grams per serving – Chicken thighs are a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Carbohydrates: ~30-40 grams per serving – Primarily from the honey and soy sauce in the glaze. Carbohydrates provide energy for the body.
• Fat: ~20-30 grams per serving – Chicken thighs contain fat, contributing to flavor and satiety. The type of fat is mostly unsaturated, which is considered healthier than saturated fat.
• Sodium: ~500-700 mg per serving – From the soy sauce. Consider using low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and measurements used in your recipe.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes – This includes gathering ingredients, mincing garlic, grating ginger, preparing the glaze, and patting the chicken dry.
• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes – This includes searing (optional), simmering the glaze, and cooking the chicken through.
• Total Time: Approximately 35-50 minutes – From start to finish, you can have this flavorful Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken on your table in under an hour, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.

How to Serve Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken

This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Grains:
  • Steamed Rice (White or Brown): Classic and absorbs the delicious glaze perfectly.
  • Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and slightly sticky, complements the Asian-inspired flavors.
  • Quinoa: A healthier grain option, providing protein and fiber.
  • Noodles (Egg Noodles, Udon Noodles, or Rice Noodles): Tossed with a little sesame oil or soy sauce, they create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
• Vegetables (Roasted, Steamed, or Stir-Fried):
  • Broccoli: Roasted or steamed broccoli florets provide a healthy and contrasting texture.
  • Asparagus: Grilled or roasted asparagus spears offer a delicate flavor and vibrant green color.
  • Green Beans: Sautéed or steamed green beans with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
  • Bok Choy: Stir-fried or sautéed bok choy with garlic and ginger mirrors the flavors of the chicken.
  • Bell Peppers: Stir-fried bell peppers in various colors add sweetness and crunch.
  • Carrots: Roasted or steamed carrots provide sweetness and a contrasting texture.
• Salads:
  • Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with a light vinaigrette dressing, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
  • Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil provides a cooling and light side dish.
  • Edamame Salad: A vibrant salad with edamame, corn, and a light dressing for added protein and freshness.
• Other Sides:
  • Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: For an appetizer or to complete an Asian-inspired meal.
  • Miso Soup: A light and warming soup to start the meal.
  • Kimchi: For those who love extra spice and fermented flavors, kimchi adds a tangy and spicy kick.

Expert Tips for Perfect Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken

1. Marinate for Deeper Flavor (Optional): For an even more flavorful chicken, consider marinating the chicken thighs in a portion of the glaze for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator, before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken more deeply, resulting in a richer taste.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Searing: If you choose to sear the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, hindering browning and flavor development. Work in batches if necessary to ensure each piece of chicken gets nicely browned.
3. Adjust Spice Level to Your Preference: The recipe calls for 2-4 tablespoons of sriracha sauce. Start with 2 tablespoons for a milder heat and increase to 4 tablespoons or more for a spicier dish. Taste the glaze before adding the chicken and adjust accordingly. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
4. Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger provide a much brighter and more vibrant flavor than dried versions. They are key ingredients for the aromatic base of the glaze.
5. Control the Glaze Consistency: The cornstarch slurry is essential for thickening the glaze. Add it gradually and stir continuously until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a thinner glaze, use less cornstarch. If you want a thicker, stickier glaze, you can simmer it for a bit longer to reduce it further, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
6. Baste the Chicken with Glaze While Simmering: During the simmering process, occasionally baste the chicken with the glaze from the bottom of the pan. This ensures that the chicken stays moist and becomes beautifully coated in the glaze from all sides.
7. Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
8. Garnish for Presentation and Flavor: Garnishing with sesame seeds and green onions not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor and texture of the dish. Sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch, and green onions offer a fresh, mild onion flavor. Feel free to experiment with other garnishes like chopped cilantro or a drizzle of extra sesame oil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be drier than thighs. If using breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and don’t dry out. Reduce the cooking time slightly, as chicken breasts cook faster than thighs. Be extra careful not to overcook them.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken ahead of time. Cook the chicken according to the instructions, and then let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or in the oven until heated through. The glaze may thicken upon cooling, so you might need to add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth when reheating to loosen it up.

Q3: How do I store leftover Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken?
A: Store leftover Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled down completely before refrigerating.

Q4: Can I freeze Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken?
A: Freezing is not recommended for the best texture, as the glaze can become slightly watery upon thawing. However, if you need to freeze it, place the cooked and cooled chicken and glaze in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The texture of the chicken and glaze might be slightly altered after freezing and thawing.

Q5: What if I don’t have rice vinegar? Can I use another substitute?
A: If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. These will provide a similar tangy acidity to balance the sweetness of the honey. Lemon juice or lime juice can also be used in a pinch, but they will impart a slightly different flavor profile.

Q6: Can I make this recipe less spicy?
A: Absolutely! To make it less spicy, reduce the amount of sriracha sauce to 1 tablespoon or even less, or omit it entirely for a honey-garlic glazed chicken. You can also use a milder chili sauce instead of sriracha.

Q7: Can I add vegetables to cook with the chicken?
A: Yes, you can add vegetables to cook with the chicken in the glaze. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots would all be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet after you’ve added the chicken, ensuring they are submerged in the glaze. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure vegetables are tender-crisp and chicken is cooked through.

Q8: Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. However, bone-in thighs will take longer to cook. Increase the simmering time accordingly, and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) near the bone. You might also want to sear the skin-side down first to render some of the fat and crisp up the skin before adding the glaze.

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