Honey Sriracha Chicken recipe

Finding that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory in a single dish can feel like chasing a culinary unicorn. But let me tell you, this Honey Sriracha Chicken recipe is that unicorn – real, delicious, and surprisingly easy to capture! From the moment I first whipped up this vibrant dish, my kitchen was filled with an irresistible aroma that had everyone hovering around, forks at the ready. The glossy, sticky glaze, a tantalizing blend of sweet honey and fiery sriracha, coated the chicken beautifully, promising a flavor explosion with every bite. And boy, did it deliver! The chicken was incredibly tender and juicy, infused with a sweet heat that was both addictive and comforting. Even my kids, who are usually cautious about spice, couldn’t get enough, declaring it their new favorite chicken dish. This Honey Sriracha Chicken has quickly become a weeknight staple in our house, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy evenings or casual get-togethers. It’s the kind of recipe that’s simple enough to make on a whim, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Trust me, once you taste this sweet and spicy sensation, you’ll be hooked, just like my family and I are!

Ingredients

The magic of Honey Sriracha Chicken lies in the harmonious blend of simple yet impactful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, spiciness, and savory notes. Let’s break down each ingredient and understand its contribution to this irresistible dish:

• Chicken Thighs: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. Chicken thighs are the star protein of this dish, prized for their rich flavor and ability to remain incredibly moist and tender even when cooked at higher temperatures. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are convenient and easy to work with, making preparation a breeze. Cutting them into 1-inch pieces ensures even cooking and allows for maximum surface area to get coated in that glorious honey sriracha glaze. While chicken thighs are highly recommended for their superior flavor and texture in this recipe, you can also use chicken breasts as a leaner alternative. If using chicken breasts, be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily. Adjust cooking time accordingly if using chicken breasts, and consider cutting them into slightly larger pieces to help retain moisture. For optimal flavor and juiciness, chicken thighs are truly the way to go.
• Sriracha Sauce: ¼ cup Sriracha sauce. Sriracha sauce is the fiery heart of this dish, providing the signature spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the honey and the savory elements. Sriracha is a chili sauce made from chili peppers, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt. Its bright red color and distinctive flavor are instantly recognizable. The amount of sriracha sauce can be adjusted to your spice preference. If you prefer a milder dish, start with 2 tablespoons and add more to taste. For those who love intense heat, you can increase the sriracha to ½ cup or even more. Different brands of sriracha can vary in heat level, so adjust accordingly based on your preferred brand and spice tolerance. Sriracha not only adds heat but also a complex fermented chili flavor that is essential to the overall taste profile of this dish.
• Honey: ½ cup honey. Honey provides the essential sweetness that perfectly balances the heat of the sriracha and creates the signature sticky glaze. Honey also adds a subtle floral aroma and a depth of flavor that white sugar cannot replicate. Use a good quality honey for the best flavor. Different types of honey, such as wildflower, clover, or buckwheat, will impart slightly different flavor nuances to the glaze. You can experiment with different honeys to find your personal preference. Honey also contributes to the beautiful caramelization of the glaze during cooking, creating that irresistible sticky texture that coats the chicken so perfectly. For a vegan option, you can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Soy Sauce: ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce introduces a savory umami element to the honey sriracha glaze, balancing the sweetness and heat and deepening the overall flavor profile. Using low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish. If you only have regular soy sauce, you might want to reduce the amount slightly or taste the glaze before applying it to the chicken and adjust accordingly. Soy sauce also contributes to the beautiful browning of the chicken in the oven or skillet due to the Maillard reaction. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute tamari, which has a similar flavor profile to soy sauce and is typically gluten-free. Coconut aminos is another gluten-free alternative, but it’s slightly sweeter and less salty than soy sauce, so you might need to adjust the honey and salt accordingly.
• Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons rice vinegar. Rice vinegar adds a gentle acidity to the honey sriracha glaze, enhancing the tanginess and balancing the sweetness and heat. It also helps to tenderize the chicken slightly. Rice vinegar is milder and sweeter than other types of vinegar, making it a perfect complement to Asian-inspired dishes. Avoid using white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, as they have a sharper and more assertive flavor that can overpower the delicate balance of the glaze. If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute with lemon juice or lime juice in a pinch, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic depth to the honey sriracha glaze, complementing the ginger and adding a savory backbone to the dish. Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavor. Avoid using garlic powder, as it lacks the fresh, aromatic punch of fresh garlic. Mince the garlic finely using a knife or garlic press. Garlic and ginger are classic flavor partners in Asian cuisine and work synergistically in this recipe.
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger. Fresh ginger adds a warm, spicy, and aromatic kick to the honey sriracha glaze, complementing the garlic and adding another layer of complexity. Freshly grated ginger is crucial for the best flavor. Avoid using powdered ginger, as it lacks the fresh, pungent flavor of fresh ginger. Peel the ginger root before grating it using a microplane or fine grater. Ginger not only adds flavor but also has numerous health benefits.
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Sesame oil adds a distinctive nutty and aromatic flavor that is characteristic of Asian cuisine and enhances the overall flavor profile of the honey sriracha glaze. Toasted sesame oil is recommended for its more intense flavor and aroma. A little goes a long way with sesame oil, so use it sparingly. Avoid using regular cooking oils like vegetable oil or canola oil in place of sesame oil, as they lack the unique flavor that sesame oil provides. Sesame oil is best added to the glaze rather than used for cooking, to preserve its delicate flavor.
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Cornstarch is used to thicken the honey sriracha glaze, creating a glossy and sticky sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. It also helps to prevent the sauce from becoming too thin and watery. Whisk the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry before adding it to the glaze to prevent lumps from forming. Arrowroot powder can be used as a gluten-free substitute for cornstarch.
• Vegetable Oil (for cooking): 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Vegetable oil is used for cooking the chicken, whether you choose to pan-fry, bake, or grill it. It has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for various cooking methods. Canola oil or peanut oil can also be used as substitutes. Avoid using olive oil for high-heat cooking methods, as it has a lower smoke point and can burn.
• Sesame Seeds and Green Onions (for garnish): Sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions are optional garnishes that add visual appeal, a subtle nutty flavor, and a fresh, mild oniony bite to the finished dish. Toasted sesame seeds have a more intense flavor and aroma. Green onions are best added fresh at the end to preserve their vibrant color and flavor.

Instructions

Creating this mouthwatering Honey Sriracha Chicken is surprisingly simple and versatile, offering options for baking, pan-frying, or grilling to suit your preferences and cooking style. Follow these detailed instructions for each method to achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful, and gloriously glazed chicken every time:

Method 1: Baking (Oven)

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheat the oven to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization of the glaze. Using an oven thermometer is recommended for accurate temperature.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear and allowing the glaze to adhere properly. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl.
3. Make the Honey Sriracha Glaze: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sriracha sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Add the cornstarch slurry to the glaze and whisk well to combine.
4. Glaze the Chicken: Pour the honey sriracha glaze over the chicken pieces in the bowl. Toss to coat the chicken thoroughly, ensuring every piece is evenly covered in the glaze. You can use your hands or tongs to toss the chicken and ensure even coating. Marinating the chicken in the glaze for even just 15-20 minutes at this stage can enhance the flavor further, but it’s not strictly necessary if you’re short on time.
5. Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish: Arrange the glazed chicken pieces in a single layer in a baking dish. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the chicken instead of roasting it. A 9×13 inch baking dish is usually sufficient for this amount of chicken. You can line the baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup, but it’s not essential.
6. Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding the bone) to ensure it is fully cooked. The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
7. Broil for Extra Glaze (Optional): For an extra caramelized and sticky glaze, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning, as the honey can caramelize quickly under the broiler. Broiling is optional but highly recommended for that restaurant-quality glaze finish. Keep a close eye on the chicken during broiling and remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches your desired level of caramelization.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the Honey Sriracha Chicken from the oven. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, if desired. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with your favorite sides.

Method 2: Pan-Frying (Skillet)

1. Prepare the Chicken and Glaze: Follow steps 2 and 3 from the Baking Method to prepare the chicken and honey sriracha glaze.
2. Heat Oil in Skillet: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering hot.
3. Pan-Fry the Chicken: Add the glazed chicken pieces to the hot skillet in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it. Pan-fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Reduce Glaze and Coat Chicken: Once all the chicken is cooked through, pour any remaining honey sriracha glaze into the skillet. Bring the glaze to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until it thickens and becomes glossy, coating the chicken pieces beautifully. Toss the chicken to ensure it is evenly coated in the glaze.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the Honey Sriracha Chicken from the skillet. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, if desired. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with your favorite sides.

Method 3: Grilling

1. Prepare the Chicken and Glaze: Follow steps 2 and 3 from the Baking Method to prepare the chicken and honey sriracha glaze.
2. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the glazed chicken pieces on the preheated grill grates. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the chicken has beautiful grill marks. Baste the chicken with any remaining glaze during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor and stickiness.
4. Garnish and Serve: Remove the Honey Sriracha Chicken from the grill. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, if desired. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with your favorite sides.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings, using baked chicken thighs and glaze, without rice)

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-500 calories (This is an estimate and can vary based on portion sizes, cooking method, and specific ingredients. Using chicken breasts instead of thighs and reducing honey content will lower the calorie count.)

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown per Serving (without rice):

• Protein: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 20-30 grams (Varies depending on chicken cut and cooking method)
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams (Primarily from honey and sriracha sauce)

Important Notes:

• These are estimates and may vary. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and ingredients you use.
• The calorie and fat content can be reduced by using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimming any visible fat, and reducing the amount of honey.
• The sodium content will be influenced by the type of soy sauce and sriracha used. Using low-sodium soy sauce can help manage sodium intake.
• This recipe provides a good source of protein.
• Honey contributes to the carbohydrate content, but also provides some antioxidants.
• Consider portion sizes to manage calorie intake.

Preparation Time

Honey Sriracha Chicken is designed for efficiency, making it a perfect choice for quick and flavorful meals, especially during busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (This includes cutting chicken, mincing garlic and ginger, making the glaze, and preheating the oven/skillet/grill.) Efficient knife skills and having ingredients readily available will help streamline prep time.
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (for baking), 15-20 minutes (for pan-frying), 15-20 minutes (for grilling) – depending on the chosen cooking method and size of chicken pieces.
• Total Time: 40-50 minutes (for baking), 30-40 minutes (for pan-frying), 30-40 minutes (for grilling) – From start to finish, including prep and cook time. Regardless of the cooking method, you can have a delicious and satisfying Honey Sriracha Chicken meal ready in under an hour.

How to Serve Honey Sriracha Chicken

Honey Sriracha Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of ways, making it a fantastic option for various occasions and meal preferences. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to inspire your next Honey Sriracha Chicken meal:

Classic Asian-Inspired Pairings:

• Rice:
  • Steamed White Rice: The most classic and simple pairing, providing a neutral base to soak up the flavorful honey sriracha glaze. Jasmine rice or basmati rice are excellent choices for their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier and more nutritious option, serve with brown rice. Brown rice offers a nutty flavor and higher fiber content.
  • Fried Rice: Transform leftover rice into a quick and flavorful side of fried rice. Add vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions, and season with soy sauce and sesame oil.
• Noodles:
  • Lo Mein Noodles: Soft lo mein noodles tossed with a light sauce (or even just sesame oil and soy sauce) are a delicious alternative to rice. You can stir-fry the noodles with vegetables or serve them plain on the side.
  • Rice Noodles: Gluten-free rice noodles, such as wide rice noodles or vermicelli noodles, are another excellent option. Stir-fry them or serve them boiled and tossed with a light sauce.
• Vegetable Sides:
  • Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans provide a healthy and vibrant green side dish that complements the richness of the chicken.
  • Asian Greens: Stir-fried bok choy, gai lan (Chinese broccoli), or spinach are delicious and authentic vegetable pairings. Season them lightly with garlic and soy sauce.
  • Edamame: Steamed edamame (soybeans in pods) is a fun and healthy appetizer or side dish that adds protein and fiber to the meal.

Creative and Modern Serving Ideas:

• Chicken Bowls: Create customizable bowls by serving Honey Sriracha Chicken over rice or quinoa, and then adding a variety of toppings such as:
  • Fresh Vegetables: Sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, bean sprouts, shredded cabbage, avocado slices.
  • Pickled Vegetables: Pickled radishes, pickled carrots, kimchi.
  • Sauces: Extra sriracha, chili garlic sauce, peanut sauce, yum yum sauce, sesame ginger dressing.
  • Toppings: Sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, crispy fried onions, cilantro, green onions.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter and lower-carb option, serve Honey Sriracha Chicken as lettuce wraps. Spoon the chicken mixture into crisp lettuce cups (like iceberg or butter lettuce) and let everyone assemble their own wraps. Offer a variety of toppings like shredded carrots, cucumbers, bean sprouts, and a drizzle of extra sriracha or peanut sauce.
• Chicken Sliders or Sandwiches: Shred the Honey Sriracha Chicken and use it as a flavorful filling for sliders or sandwiches. Serve on mini burger buns or soft rolls with coleslaw, pickled onions, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
• Chicken Tacos or Burritos: Shred the chicken and use it as a tasty filling for tacos or burritos. Serve in warm tortillas with toppings like shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Appetizers and Starters:

• Honey Sriracha Chicken Skewers: Thread the glazed chicken pieces onto skewers and bake, grill, or pan-fry them for a delicious appetizer or party snack. Serve with extra glaze for dipping.
• Chicken and Wonton Cups: Fill crispy wonton cups with shredded Honey Sriracha Chicken and top with green onions and sesame seeds for a fun and bite-sized appetizer.

Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions:

• Weeknight Dinner: Serve simply over white rice with steamed broccoli for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
• Casual Gathering: Set up a chicken bowl bar with rice, quinoa, Honey Sriracha Chicken, and a variety of toppings for a fun and interactive meal for friends and family.
• Potluck or Picnic: Honey Sriracha Chicken can be made ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature, making it a great option for potlucks or picnics. Serve with rice or noodles separately to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Additional Tips for Perfect Honey Sriracha Chicken

To ensure your Honey Sriracha Chicken is consistently delicious and achieves that perfect balance of flavors and textures, consider these five essential tips:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan (for pan-frying or grilling): When pan-frying or grilling the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, resulting in less browning and a less crispy texture. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper searing and even cooking.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer for Accurate Doneness: Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking and drying it out. Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding the bone) to get an accurate reading. Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches 165°F and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
3. Adjust Spice Level to Your Preference: Sriracha sauce is the primary source of heat in this dish. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your spice tolerance and preference. Start with ¼ cup for a medium spice level, and increase or decrease accordingly. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or use a milder chili sauce if you prefer less spice.
4. Make Extra Glaze (Optional): If you love a really saucy chicken, or if you plan to serve the chicken over rice or noodles, consider making a double batch of the honey sriracha glaze. Extra glaze is always welcome for drizzling over the chicken and sides, and it ensures you have plenty of that delicious sticky sauce to go around.
5. Garnish Generously: Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! Freshly chopped green onions and sesame seeds not only add visual appeal but also contribute to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Green onions provide a fresh, mild oniony bite, while sesame seeds add a nutty aroma and subtle crunch. Garnish generously just before serving to elevate the presentation and flavor of your Honey Sriracha Chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Honey Sriracha Chicken

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Honey Sriracha Chicken, addressing common queries and providing helpful solutions for a seamless cooking experience:

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts are leaner and tend to dry out more easily than chicken thighs. Reduce the cooking time accordingly, and be extra vigilant about checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Start checking for doneness around 20-25 minutes when baking, or reduce pan-frying/grilling time. You may also want to marinate chicken breasts for a longer time to help keep them moist. Chicken thighs are generally more forgiving and stay moister during cooking, making them a popular choice for this recipe, but chicken breasts are a leaner and equally delicious option if cooked properly.

Q2: Can I make Honey Sriracha Chicken ahead of time?

A: Honey Sriracha Chicken is best served fresh and hot for optimal texture, especially crispiness if pan-fried or grilled. However, you can prepare components ahead of time to save time on busy days. You can make the honey sriracha glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also cut and marinate the chicken ahead of time. When ready to cook, bake, pan-fry, or grill the chicken and then toss it with the pre-made glaze. Reheating fully cooked Honey Sriracha Chicken is possible, but the chicken may not be as crispy, especially if pan-fried or grilled. Reheating in the oven is generally preferred over microwaving to maintain texture as much as possible.

Q3: What if I don’t have rice vinegar? What can I substitute?

A: If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with other mild vinegars or citrus juices. Good substitutes include: white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, or lime juice. White wine vinegar and apple cider vinegar will provide a slightly sharper tang, while lemon and lime juice will offer a brighter, citrusy acidity. Use the substitutions in the same amount as rice vinegar (2 tablespoons). While rice vinegar is the most authentic choice for Asian-inspired dishes, these substitutes will work in a pinch to provide the necessary acidity to balance the sweetness and heat of the glaze.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to the Honey Sriracha Chicken?

A: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to this Honey Sriracha Chicken to make it a more complete and nutritious meal. Good vegetable additions include: broccoli florets, bell peppers (sliced), snap peas, snow peas, sliced carrots, sliced onions, or mushrooms. You can stir-fry the vegetables separately and then add them to the skillet or baking dish with the chicken and glaze during the last few minutes of cooking, or roast vegetables alongside the chicken in the oven. Choose vegetables that cook quickly and complement the honey sriracha glaze.

Q5: Is Honey Sriracha Chicken gluten-free?

A: Honey Sriracha Chicken can be made gluten-free with a few simple substitutions. The key ingredient to address is soy sauce, which typically contains wheat. To make it gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Ensure that your sriracha sauce is also gluten-free (most brands are, but always check the label). Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, but again, double-check labels if you have severe sensitivities. With these substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious and gluten-free Honey Sriracha Chicken meal.

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