What makes a weeknight dinner truly unforgettable? A simple yet impressive easy homemade side dish like spicy! This quick glazed chicken recipe is made with honey and chili flakes for a sweet and spicy kick. Save this idea for your next family favorite meal.

easy 25 – minute spicy honey glazed chicken is the perfect side dish for any meal

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a succulent, spicy, and sweet chicken dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes. This easy 25-minute spicy honey glazed chicken is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any meal, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using everyday ingredients to create a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. With its perfect balance of spicy and sweet, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, let’s dive into the world of flavors and explore what makes this recipe truly special.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of spicy and sweet flavors creates a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds. The ingredients used are easily accessible and can be found in most pantries, making this recipe a breeze to prepare.
• Ease of preparation: With a cooking time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those with busy schedules. The simple steps involved make it easy to follow and execute, even for novice cooks.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the ease of preparation, the end result is a dish that’s sure to impress. The spicy honey glaze adds a depth of flavor and a beautiful sheen to the chicken, making it perfect for serving to guests or enjoying as a family meal.

Key Ingredients

The key to this recipe lies in the combination of ingredients used. You’ll need 1 tbsp of olive oil, 2 chicken breasts, 1 bell pepper sliced, 2 cloves of garlic minced, 1 tsp of grated ginger, 1/4 cup of honey, 1 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tsp of rice vinegar, 1/4 tsp of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. For practical substitutions, you can use coconut oil instead of olive oil, or swap the bell pepper with any other color of your choice. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Set the glaze aside for later use.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 5 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
3. Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the spicy honey glaze all over the chicken.
4. Step 4: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through. While the chicken is baking, sauté the sliced bell pepper in the same skillet used for the chicken until tender. Serve the chicken with the sautéed bell pepper and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• When cooking the chicken, make sure to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the temperature and affect the even cooking of the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
• To avoid the chicken from becoming too sweet, brush the glaze during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the glaze to caramelize and stick to the chicken without making it too sweet.
• For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid burning.

Heat Control

When cooking the chicken, it’s essential to control the heat to achieve the perfect doneness. The ideal temperature for cooking chicken is 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the breast to check for doneness. The juices should run clear, and the meat should be white and firm to the touch.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the sautéed bell pepper and the caramelized spicy honey glaze. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure to not overcook the bell pepper. It should be tender but still crisp. The glaze will caramelize and stick to the chicken during the last few minutes of baking, adding a beautiful crunch to the dish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make the recipe more efficient, prepare the glaze and marinade ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• For a shortcut, use pre-sliced bell pepper or pre-minced garlic to save time on prep work.
• To make cleanup easier, line the baking sheet with parchment paper before baking the chicken. This will prevent the glaze from sticking to the sheet and make cleanup a breeze.

Storage Tips

• Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
• The spicy honey glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Use as a marinade or glaze for other proteins or vegetables.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you want to gift this recipe to friends or family, consider packaging the cooked chicken in a beautiful glass container or a decorative tin. Add a side of sautéed bell pepper and a small jar of spicy honey glaze for a complete gift. You can also include a recipe card with instructions on how to reheat and serve. Wrap the container in a decorative ribbon or twine to add a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the glaze for a smoky flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
• Creative toppings: Top the chicken with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Swap the chicken with pork or beef for a different twist on the recipe. You can also use different types of bell pepper or add other vegetables like carrots or broccoli to the skillet.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the chicken becomes too dry, try brining it in a saltwater solution before cooking. If the glaze becomes too thick, whisk in a little water to thin it out.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have soy sauce, try using tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute. If you don’t have rice vinegar, use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar instead.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the chicken is overcooked, it will be dry and tough. If it’s undercooked, the juices will not run clear, and the meat will be pink. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a larger skillet or baking sheet if necessary.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this easy 25-minute spicy honey glazed chicken is a game-changer for any meal. With its perfect balance of spicy and sweet, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make the recipe your own. Share it with friends and family, and enjoy the oohs and aahs as they take their first bite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to tag me in your recreations of this recipe on social media!