Honey Sriracha Chicken has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight dinner that feels incredibly special. I first tried a version of this spicy honey chicken recipe years ago at a friend’s potluck, and I was immediately hooked by that perfect balance of sweet and heat. The aroma alone, with that garlicky glaze caramelizing in the pan, is enough to make my mouth water! It’s genuinely an easy honey sriracha chicken to whip up, even on the busiest evenings. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Honey Sriracha Chicken
This dish is a total winner for so many reasons. Get ready to add it to your regular rotation!
- Incredible Flavor: It delivers that perfect sweet and spicy chicken experience, with a delicious glaze that coats every bite.
- Super Quick Prep: With minimal prep time, you can have this on the table in under 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters usually love this recipe; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles all around.
- Budget-Conscious: Using common pantry staples, this recipe is wonderfully affordable without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile: Whether you serve it over rice or with veggies, it’s a fantastic base for many meals.
- Satisfyingly Sweet and Spicy: You get that delightful contrast that makes this sweet and spicy chicken so addictive.
- Healthy-ish Options: It’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal, and you can easily adjust ingredients for dietary needs.
Honey Sriracha Chicken Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious honey garlic sriracha chicken experience:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs are my personal favorite for their juiciness, but breasts work great too!
- 1/4 cup honey – This provides the essential sweetness that balances the heat.
- 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce – The star of the show for that signature kick!
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds a savory depth and umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – A touch of acidity brightens up the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic punch.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – A little goes a long way for that nutty, finishing touch.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – To enhance all the flavors.
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Sesame seeds, for garnish – For a little crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Honey Sriracha Chicken
Making this amazing dish is surprisingly simple, and the results are so worth it. Get ready for some seriously delicious glazed honey sriracha chicken!
- Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Give it a good stir until everything is beautifully combined. This is where all that sweet and spicy magic begins!
- Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken pieces into the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. I like to let mine marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, but if you have the time, chilling it in the fridge for up to 2 hours really deepens the flavor. This step is crucial for making tender honey sriracha chicken thighs!
- Step 3: Heat the Pan
While the chicken is soaking up all that flavor, get a large skillet smoking hot over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil – just enough to coat the bottom – to prevent any sticking. You want that sizzle!
- Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip back into the bowl (don’t discard that glorious marinade!). Season your chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Carefully place the chicken into the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through. If you’re using chicken breasts, they might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them.
- Step 5: Add the Marinade and Simmer
Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, pour the reserved marinade right into the skillet over the chicken. Let it bubble and simmer for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll see the sauce start to thicken and coat the chicken, creating that gorgeous glaze. This is the moment where your honey sriracha chicken breast truly transforms!
- Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Turn the chicken pieces to ensure they are evenly coated in the bubbling, luscious sauce. The heat will help it thicken just enough to cling beautifully. Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra pop of freshness and crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, homemade Asian honey sriracha chicken!
Pro Tips for the Best Honey Sriracha Chicken
Want to elevate your honey sriracha chicken game? These tips will ensure your dish is absolutely perfect every time.
- Marinate Longer: While 15 minutes is good, marinating for 2 hours (or even overnight!) in the fridge really lets the flavors meld beautifully, especially for chicken thighs.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to steamed, not seared, chicken.
- Adjust Sriracha to Taste: Everyone’s spice tolerance is different. Start with the recommended amount and add more if you like it extra fiery.
- Rest the Chicken: Just like with a steak, letting the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making it more tender and moist.
What’s the secret to perfect Glazed honey sriracha chicken?
The magic is in the reduction! Simmering the reserved honey sriracha chicken sauce with the cooked chicken allows it to thicken and coat the meat beautifully, creating that irresistible shiny glaze. Don’t rush this step!
Can I make Honey Sriracha Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in advance. Cooked chicken can also be stored in the fridge, but the glaze is best when fresh.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Honey Sriracha Chicken?
A common pitfall is overcrowding the pan, which leads to steamed chicken. Also, resist the urge to stir the chicken constantly while searing; let it develop a nice crust. Finally, don’t skip the sauce reduction step!
Best Ways to Serve Honey Sriracha Chicken
This versatile dish shines in so many ways! For a classic weeknight meal, I love serving it over fluffy steamed jasmine rice. The rice soaks up all that delicious, sticky glaze, making it an integral part of the experience. If you’re aiming for a lighter meal or a more complete Asian honey sriracha chicken platter, pair it with some crisp, stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. You could also shred it and toss it into tacos or wraps for a fun twist!
Nutrition Facts for Honey Sriracha Chicken
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious dish:
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Honey Sriracha Chicken
Leftover honey sriracha chicken is a fantastic thing to have on hand, making meal prep a breeze! Once your chicken has cooled down completely, I recommend storing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil, and pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re craving that sweet and spicy goodness again, you can easily reheat it.
For a quick honey sriracha chicken fix, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick. Just be sure to heat it evenly for the best texture and flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Sriracha Chicken
What is honey sriracha chicken?
Honey Sriracha Chicken is a popular Asian-inspired dish celebrated for its addictive sweet and spicy flavor profile. It features chicken, typically pan-seared or baked, coated in a glossy glaze made from honey, Sriracha sauce, garlic, and a few other savory ingredients. It perfectly balances the sweetness of honey with the fiery kick of Sriracha.
Can I use chicken wings or drumsticks?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can easily substitute chicken wings or drumsticks for thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; wings and drumsticks might take a bit longer to cook through, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How do I make a honey sriracha chicken stir fry recipe?
To transform this into a stir fry, prepare the chicken as directed, but cut it into bite-sized pieces before marinating. Stir-fry your chicken pieces in a wok or large skillet until nearly cooked. Then, add your favorite stir-fry vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and onions. Pour in the reserved sauce and toss everything together until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the chicken is coated in that delicious glaze. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
What can I serve with honey sriracha chicken?
This sweet and spicy chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its bold flavor. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice, as it soaks up the extra glaze. For a lighter option, serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice. A side of stir-fried vegetables, like bok choy or green beans, also makes a great addition to create a balanced meal.
Variations of Honey Sriracha Chicken You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are so many fun ways to switch things up! Don’t be afraid to experiment with this versatile dish. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spicy Chicken Wings: Toss chicken wings with the marinade and bake or air fry them until crispy. The sticky glaze on honey sriracha chicken wings is absolutely divine, offering that perfect kick!
- Sheet Pan Dinner: Combine chicken pieces with chopped vegetables like broccoli florets, bell pepper chunks, and red onion wedges. Toss everything with the marinade and roast on a single sheet pan for an easy, cleanup-friendly meal.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a completely gluten-free version, simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. The flavor remains just as incredible!
- Extra Zing: Looking for even more heat? Add a touch of chili flakes or a dash of extra Sriracha to the sauce for a truly fiery experience. This variation is perfect if you love extra spicy chicken with honey and sriracha.
Honey Sriracha Chicken: Amazing 35-Min Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Honey Sriracha Chicken is a delightful dish combining the sweetness of honey with the fiery kick of Sriracha sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love vibrant flavors, offering a balance of heat and sweetness for an unforgettable culinary experience. It’s simple to make, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together honey, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. For best results, marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the Marinade: Once the chicken is cooked, pour the reserved marinade over the chicken in the pan. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Glaze the Chicken: Turn the chicken in the sauce to coat it evenly. This step will give the chicken a beautiful, shiny glaze.
- Garnish: Remove from heat, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and texture.
- Serve Hot: Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, ensuring to pour any excess glaze over the top.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha to control the spice level.
- Chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs; monitor closely.
- The marinade can be made a day in advance.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: N/A