If you’re looking for a dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, this hot honey chicken recipe is just what you need. Juicy chicken breasts glazed with a delightful hot honey sauce make for an irresistible meal. Whether served on a bed of rice or alongside roasted vegetables, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet flavorful recipe!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup hot honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Cooked rice, for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, 20g of protein, 15g of fat, and 40g of carbohydrates. This nutritional information is for one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken.
6. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.
7. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
8. Drizzle hot honey over the chicken, coating it well.
9. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes until cooked through.
10. Remove from the oven, let rest, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute boneless chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option. If you prefer a milder sauce, use regular honey and add a pinch of red pepper flakes instead of hot honey.
Serving and Pairings
This hot honey chicken pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it in a wrap or sandwich for a delightful lunch option.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover hot honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip patting the chicken dry; it helps with browning.
– Avoid overcrowding the skillet; this can cause steaming instead of searing.
– Ensure your honey isn’t too thick; warm it slightly if needed.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/75°C).
– Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours.
– Add a splash of lemon juice to the hot honey for a zesty twist.
– Try using a grill for a smoky flavor.
– Pair with a spicy dipping sauce for an added kick.
FAQs
Can I make hot honey chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and apply the hot honey sauce in advance. Just bake it right before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with hot honey chicken?
Hot honey chicken goes well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. Consider pairing with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on the hot honey used. You can adjust the heat by using less hot honey or mixing in regular honey.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is recommended for accuracy.
Conclusion
This hot honey chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and spicy glaze, it will become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making this dish and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills!
Hot Honey Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup hot honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken.
- Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Drizzle hot honey over the chicken, coating it well.
- Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove from the oven, let rest, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
