When I first tried this hot honey chicken, it was like a revelation. The perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, combined with tender chicken, instantly made it a favorite in my kitchen.
I remember watching everyone at the dinner table savor each bite, and it brought me so much joy. The best part? It’s so easy to make, even on busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be on repeat in your home too.
Credit: thecozycook
Ingredients
Here’s the ingredients list, explained with tips to ensure the best results.
- 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds of chicken tenders
Tip: Use fresh chicken tenders for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry. - Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Tip: Season lightly but evenly on both sides of the chicken for balanced flavor. - 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Tip: Use high-quality olive oil for a rich taste. Don’t substitute with vegetable oil, as it alters the flavor. - 3 cloves of garlic, minced
Tip: Fresh garlic adds a robust and aromatic note. Avoid jarred minced garlic, as it’s less flavorful. - 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar
Tip: Choose unfiltered apple cider vinegar for a deeper, richer taste. - 1/3 cup of hot honey
Tip: Adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking. You can make your own hot honey (instructions below). - 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
Tip: This ingredient adds depth and umami to balance the sweet and spicy notes of the sauce. - 2 thinly sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
Tip: Add these just before serving for a fresh, bright finish.
Note: Serves 4 to 6 people based on these quantities.
Variations
Customizing this recipe is a breeze. Here are some ideas:
- Sugar-Free Option: Use sugar-free honey or a low-calorie sweetener with red pepper flakes.
- Gluten-Free Version: Ensure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free or swap it with tamari.
- Milder Heat: Reduce the amount of hot honey or replace it with regular honey and a smaller pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the chicken seasoning or some fresh thyme to the sauce.
For more hearty and comforting dishes, you might also love this chicken stroganoff recipe.
Cooking Time
With this recipe, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Nonstick skillet: For evenly cooking chicken without sticking.
- Tongs: To flip and transfer the chicken easily.
- Small whisk or spoon: To stir and blend the sauce smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board: For prepping garlic and green onions.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To get the sauce quantities just right.
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Recipe?
Making this dish is as simple as cooking the chicken, making the sauce, and putting it all together.
Sear the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. Season them with a light sprinkle of kosher salt and ground black pepper. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once heated, add the chicken and cook on one side until golden brown, about four minutes. Flip the tenders and cook for another three to four minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover with foil to keep it warm.
Prepare the Sauce
Using the same skillet (don’t clean it, as the browned bits add flavor), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, around 30 seconds, ensuring it doesn’t burn. Next, pour in the apple cider vinegar and hot honey. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and simmer. Stir occasionally, letting the sauce thicken for 5 to 8 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Once the sauce has reached a slightly thicker consistency, stir in the Worcestershire sauce for an extra flavor kick. Return the chicken tenders to the skillet, nestling them in. Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken to coat it evenly. If desired, garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Credit: thecozycook
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
After making this dish a few times, I’ve found some tricks to perfect it:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Don’t rush the sauce! Allowing it to simmer ensures a glossy and rich texture.
- If you’re looking for a smoky kick, sprinkle a little smoked salt or crushed chipotle powder into the sauce.
- For an extra crispy exterior, lightly dredge the chicken in flour before searing.
- If making your own hot honey, play with the spice level to match your tastes. I like mine with a bold kick!
You might also enjoy this easy smothered chicken recipe for another comforting meal idea.
How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Recipe?
Presentation is key to making a meal feel special. You can serve hot honey chicken over white or brown rice for a classic pairing. For a more unique option, try it over cold soba noodles or a simple salad for a light meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if you’re skipping the green onions. Finally, add a drizzle of the remaining sauce over the plate, or serve it on the side for dipping.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is both satisfying and nutritious. Here’s a quick glance at its nutritional content (per serving, based on four servings):
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fat: 19g
Make Ahead and Storage
Planning ahead? Here are some tips to store and reheat your hot honey chicken.
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days.
- Freezing: Store cooked chicken (without sauce) in freezer-safe bags for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This hot honey chicken recipe is bound to become a go-to in your mealtime rotation. Here’s why:
- Quick and Easy: It’s ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Full of Flavor: The sweet and spicy sauce paired with tender chicken is irresistible.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice, sweetness, or even make it gluten-free easily.
- Meal Prep Friendly: It stores beautifully, making it great to cook ahead of time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
Try this recipe out for your next dinner, and I bet you’ll be making it again before the week is over! You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.
Hot Honey Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. Season them with a light sprinkle of kosher salt and ground black pepper. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Once heated, add the chicken and cook on one side until golden brown, about four minutes. Flip the tenders and cook for another three to four minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover with foil to keep it warm.
- Using the same skillet (don’t clean it, as the browned bits add flavor), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, around 30 seconds, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Next, pour in the apple cider vinegar and hot honey. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and simmer. Stir occasionally, letting the sauce thicken for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Once the sauce has reached a slightly thicker consistency, stir in the Worcestershire sauce for an extra flavor kick. Return the chicken tenders to the skillet, nestling them in.
- Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken to coat it evenly. If desired, garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Don’t rush the sauce! Allowing it to simmer ensures a glossy and rich texture.
- If you’re looking for a smoky kick, sprinkle a little smoked salt or crushed chipotle powder into the sauce.
- For an extra crispy exterior, lightly dredge the chicken in flour before searing.
- If making your own hot honey, play with the spice level to match your tastes. I like mine with a bold kick!
