Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe | Tangy & Delicious

I just made this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe, and I have to say, the flavors completely won me over. The sticky honey glaze paired with the warmth of black pepper created the perfect balance of sweet and heat. As I plated it, I felt proud — like I’d made a dish worthy of a restaurant menu.

Every bite was juicy, tender, and coated in a glossy sauce that clung to the chicken beautifully. After making it once, I already know this will be one of my go-to weeknight recipes. You can also enjoy a lighter variation like Garlic Butter Chicken With Zucchini And Corn Recipe if you prefer a buttery twist.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this incredible chicken dish.

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken (breasts or thighs) — thighs stay juicier, while breasts give a leaner result.
• ½ cup cornstarch — creates a light, crisp coating without deep-frying heaviness.
• 2 large eggs, beaten — helps the cornstarch stick well.
• Salt, to taste — seasons the chicken from the inside out.
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste — gives cleaner heat than pre-ground pepper.
• Vegetable oil or any high-smoke-point oil — essential for frying and crisping the chicken.

For the Honey Pepper Sauce:

• ⅓ to ½ cup honey — gives the sauce its signature glossy sweetness.
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce — adds savory depth without overpowering the honey.
• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar — balances the sweetness with a mild tang.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional) — enhances caramel-like flavor.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or your favorite hot sauce (optional) — adjust based on your spice preference.
• 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper — the key ingredient giving the dish its peppery punch.
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced — adds aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional) — brightens the sauce with a warm kick.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water — thickens the sauce so it clings better.

Garnish (optional):

• Sliced green onions — brings freshness and color.
• Toasted sesame seeds — adds a nutty crunch and presentation boost.

Note: This ingredient list makes about 4 servings. For a sweet dessert after your chicken, I sometimes make Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe to enjoy a perfect finish.

Variations

Different diets or taste preferences? Try these options:

• Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free — no adjustments needed.
• Lower Sugar: Use a little less honey or substitute part of it with a low-sugar syrup (though texture may change slightly).
• Extra Spicy: Add chili flakes, cayenne, or double the sriracha to intensify heat.
• Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce with tamari or another gluten-free alternative.
• Flavor Add-Ins: A splash of orange juice or a pinch of zest adds a bright citrus note that pairs beautifully with honey.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Deep skillet or frying pan — for frying the chicken until golden.
• Mixing bowls — one for dredging, one for sauce.
• Whisk — helps blend the sauce smoothly.
• Small saucepan — used to heat and thicken the honey pepper sauce.
• Slotted spoon or tongs — makes removing and tossing the chicken easier.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

A simple, step-by-step method to make this delicious dish.

Preparing the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into even-sized pieces, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Coat each piece in cornstarch, then dip into the beaten eggs for the perfect frying texture. This creates a crisp exterior that holds sauce beautifully.

Frying the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding and fry until golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Making the Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and optional hot sauce. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Let it cook for a minute until slightly thickened and glossy.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Add the fried chicken directly to the saucepan or pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly with the sticky sauce.

Garnishing and Finishing Touches

Finish by sprinkling sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. This adds freshness, color, and a subtle crunch that makes every bite pop.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are some things I learned that made the dish even better:

• I always fry in small batches to keep the coating crispy.
• I use fresh, coarsely ground pepper because it gives a sharper bite.
• I simmer the sauce just long enough to thicken—too long and it becomes overly sticky.
• I slightly under-fry the chicken so it finishes cooking gently in the sauce, staying extra juicy.
• I love making the sauce ahead of time, which speeds up weeknight cooking.

How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice since the sauce seeps into the grains. It also works great with noodles, especially udon or soba, for a takeout-style meal. For a lighter option, serve it in lettuce cups. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a polished, restaurant-worthy presentation.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

• Calories: ~480
• Protein: ~30–32g
• Carbohydrates: ~38g
• Fat: ~24g

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce continues to absorb flavor, making the chicken even tastier over time.

Freezing

Freeze the cooked chicken with sauce for up to 2 months. Make sure it cools completely before sealing.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce. For a crispier finish, use an air fryer or broil briefly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s what makes this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken completely irresistible:

• Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet, spicy, tangy, and peppery all in one bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that come together quickly.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust spice, sweetness, or tang to your taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with rice, noodles, wraps, or stir-fried veggies.
• Fast but Impressive: Ready in under 45 minutes and looks like a restaurant meal.