Sweet and Spicy Chicken Recipe

A Perfect Balance of Heat and Sweetness

Sweet and Spicy Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines the richness of a sweet glaze with the bold kick of spice. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a delicious contrast of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside vegetables, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavor – The combination of honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup with chili flakes or hot sauce creates a mouthwatering contrast.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level to your preference.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stores well for leftovers and reheats beautifully.

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Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for sauce thickening)
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. This helps create a crispy coating when cooked.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the coated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

• In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil.

4. Thicken the Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of water with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch.
• Pour this slurry into the sauce and stir until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).

5. Combine and Serve

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing to coat in the sauce.
• Cook for another 2 minutes to ensure the flavors meld together.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

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Variations

• Mild Version – Omit red pepper flakes and reduce sriracha for a sweeter taste.
• Extra Crispy – Double coat the chicken in cornstarch and pan-fry in more oil for added crunch.
• Vegetarian Option – Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based alternative.
• Different Sweeteners – Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to restore moisture, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs add more juiciness and flavor. Simply adjust the cooking time as thighs take slightly longer to cook.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

If your child prefers milder flavors, reduce or omit the sriracha and red pepper flakes.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to a week, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked chicken.

What sides pair well with Sweet and Spicy Chicken?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, quinoa, or even a fresh cucumber salad complement the dish well.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Increase or decrease the sriracha and red pepper flakes to control the heat.

Can I air fry the chicken?

Yes, coat the chicken in cornstarch and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

What oil works best for cooking this dish?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil are great options with a high smoke point.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas make great additions for extra texture and nutrition.

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Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. With its quick cooking time and versatile ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Try it today and customize the spice level to your taste!

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