Description

There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet and spicy flavors in a dish. It’s the perfect balance—one moment you’re savoring the sweetness, and the next, a gentle heat sneaks in, making each bite exciting and full of depth. This Sweet and Spicy Chicken recipe is one of those go-to meals that is easy to make yet feels special every single time.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but full of flavor. The sauce, made with a blend of sweet and spicy ingredients, caramelizes beautifully over the chicken, creating a sticky, mouthwatering glaze. Whether served over rice, alongside roasted vegetables, or in a wrap, this chicken is a crowd-pleaser.

Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
2 teaspoons chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger powder
1 tablespoon cornstarch
¼ cup water
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the sauce to coat each piece perfectly. If using chicken breasts, be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, sriracha, chili flakes, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Set this aside. This mixture is the heart of the dish—it’s what gives the chicken its irresistible sticky glaze.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on one side without stirring too much. This creates a golden-brown crust. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to coat evenly. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour this into the skillet and stir immediately. The sauce will thicken quickly, turning into a glossy, sticky glaze that clings to the chicken.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top. Serve hot with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.

Notes

Feel free to swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave for a slightly different sweetness.
Serve with jasmine rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
For extra crunch, toss in some cashews or peanuts before serving.