I have to admit, this sticky chicken recipe had me hooked from the start! The aroma that filled my kitchen while it cooked was absolutely mouthwatering. The first bite? Sweet, savory, and so tender it practically melted in my mouth.
It’s one of those dishes that instantly takes you back to hearty family dinners. I couldn’t wait to share how you can bring this tried-and-true dish into your own home!
Credit: sixsistersstuff
Ingredients
This recipe is made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Each one adds a special touch to create that perfect sticky glaze.
- 3–5 pounds of bone-in chicken with skin
Tip: Chicken thighs or drumsticks work best as they’re juicy and flavorful, but split chicken breasts are also a great option! - 1 cup ketchup
Why: This adds a tangy base for the sauce and helps thicken it. - 1 cup honey
Pro Tip: Use runny honey for easy mixing and a naturally sweet flavor. - 1 cup brown sugar
Tip: Dark brown sugar will give a deeper molasses flavor, but light brown sugar works fine too. - 1/2 cup soy sauce
Why: Balances the sweetness with a rich, salty umami. - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Pro Tip: Garlic powder evenly distributes garlic flavor into the marinade.
Note: This recipe makes about 4 servings, but you can easily double it for a larger crowd.
Variations
Want to customize this recipe? Here are some creative options to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Sugar-Free Option: Replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Add Heat: Stir in a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Add-In: Add halved baby potatoes or carrots into the baking dish for a complete one-pan dinner.
If you’re a fan of hearty meals, you can also enjoy similar dishes like this pulled chicken recipe for a flavorful twist.
Cooking Time
Here’s the breakdown of how long you’ll need to make this dish:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Equipment You Need
You’ll need just a few basic tools to whip up this sticky chicken:
- Medium Saucepan – To prepare the sticky marinade.
- 9×13 Baking Dish – Perfect size to fit your chicken pieces evenly.
- Tongs – For flipping and coating the chicken in sauce.
How to Make Sticky Chicken?
This dish is surprisingly easy to make. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect sticky chicken.
Prepare the Sauce
Start by combining all the ingredients for the marinade, except the chicken, in a medium saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once it comes to a gentle boil, remove it from the heat. The sauce should be slightly thick and fragrant.
Arrange the Chicken
Place your chicken pieces in a 9×13 baking dish. Make sure they’re not overcrowded so they cook evenly. Pour the warm marinade over the chicken, turning each piece to coat thoroughly.
Bake and Flip
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the chicken uncovered for 90 minutes. After the first 45 minutes, flip each piece to ensure it cooks evenly. At the one-hour and 15-minute mark, flip the chicken again and baste it with the sauce from the baking dish.
Final Touches
For the last 15 minutes, allow the chicken to caramelize in the sauce. You’ll see the glaze thicken and cling beautifully to the skin. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Credit: averiecooks
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Having made this dish several times, I’ve found a few ways to elevate its flavor and texture:
- Don’t skip the basting step! It ensures the chicken stays moist and evenly coated with sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F before removing the chicken from the oven.
- Allow the sauce to cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken. This helps it cling better to the pieces.
- Line your baking dish with foil for easy cleanup. Trust me, the sticky glaze can be tricky to scrub off!
For another comforting dish, you might enjoy this chicken pozole recipe, which is perfect for cozy nights.
How to Serve Sticky Chicken?
Sticky chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a cozy, comforting meal, serve it with fluffy white rice to soak up the sweet and savory glaze. Garnish with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of freshness and texture.
For a complete dinner, consider these side dishes:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans.
- Classic coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
- Mashed potatoes for a rich, creamy complement.
Serve the chicken in the baking dish itself for a rustic, family-style presentation, or plate it individually with a slice of lime on the side.
Nutritional Information
This sticky chicken is as delicious as it is satisfying. Here’s what you’re looking at per serving:
- Calories: 232
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 8g
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is perfect for meal planning or making ahead for busy days. Here’s how you can store it:
- To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- To Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 4 months.
- To Reheat: Warm in the microwave or a low-temperature oven, adding a splash of water to keep it saucy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This sticky chicken recipe is a home-run for so many reasons. Here’s why it’s guaranteed to be a favorite:
- Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep time and simple directions.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the flavors or ingredients to suit dietary preferences.
- Rich in Flavor: The sweet and savory sauce creates an addictively bold taste.
- Great for Leftovers: It tastes just as good, if not better, the next day!
Bring this sticky chicken recipe into your kitchen, and you’ll see why it’s a timeless classic. From its irresistible glaze to its tender, juicy meat, this dish is perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike. For more inspiration, check out these chicken recipes to expand your menu.
Sticky Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by combining all the ingredients for the marinade, except the chicken, in a medium saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once it comes to a gentle boil, remove it from the heat. The sauce should be slightly thick and fragrant.
- Place your chicken pieces in a 9×13 baking dish. Make sure they’re not overcrowded so they cook evenly. Pour the warm marinade over the chicken, turning each piece to coat thoroughly.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the chicken uncovered for 90 minutes. After the first 45 minutes, flip each piece to ensure it cooks evenly. At the one-hour and 15-minute mark, flip the chicken again and baste it with the sauce from the baking dish.
- For the last 15 minutes, allow the chicken to caramelize in the sauce. You’ll see the glaze thicken and cling beautifully to the skin. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Don’t skip the basting step! It ensures the chicken stays moist and evenly coated with sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F before removing the chicken from the oven.
- Allow the sauce to cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken. This helps it cling better to the pieces.
- Line your baking dish with foil for easy cleanup. Trust me, the sticky glaze can be tricky to scrub off!
