If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweetness and heat, this hot honey chicken recipe is for you! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a spicy honey glaze that elevates this dish to a whole new level. Ideal for serving on busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to whip up this mouthwatering meal!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Green onions for garnish
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 25 minutes, making it a total of 35 minutes from start to finish.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 36g carbohydrates, and 5g sugars. This nutritional value is based on one serving (1 chicken thigh with glaze).
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Pour the honey mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
9. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Maple syrup can be used in place of honey for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, try using tofu or tempeh with the same glaze.
Serving and Pairings
Hot honey chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip searing the chicken; it adds flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Adjust the hot sauce according to your spice preference.
- Allow the chicken to rest after cooking for better texture.
- Don’t rush the baking process; it ensures proper cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken in the honey mixture for a few hours for more flavor.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best results.
- Experiment with different hot sauces for unique heat levels.
- Serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is completely thawed before cooking for even results. Adjust cooking times as necessary.
How spicy is hot honey chicken?
The spice level can vary based on the hot sauce you use. Start with a mild sauce and adjust to your preference for heat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and glaze ahead of time. Store them separately and combine when ready to cook.
What can I serve with hot honey chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables also complement the flavors beautifully.
Is hot honey chicken suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and can be reheated, making it a great option for meal prep.
Conclusion
Hot honey chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors, making it a perfect choice for any meal. With its simple preparation and delicious results, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this dish as part of your weeknight rotation or for entertaining guests!
Hot Honey Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour the honey mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
