Do Share Recipe

Hot Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe – Sweet, Spicy & Juicy

The first time I made hot honey-glazed chicken, I couldn’t believe how something so simple could pack such bold flavors. The sweet stickiness of honey, combined with a touch of heat, creates a balance that makes you crave just one more bite.

It’s become my favorite recipe for weeknights when I want something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Whether paired with roasted vegetables or served over rice, this chicken is always a crowd-pleaser.

Try our flavorful Hot Honey Ground Chicken Recipe for a quick and tasty meal.

Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken Marinade Recipe

2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon ground red pepper
8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
6 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons cider vinegar

Note: This recipe makes 4-8 servings, depending on portion size.

Variations to Try

Customizing this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs is easy!

Less spicy: Reduce or omit red pepper and chili powder for a milder taste.
Sugar-free option: Replace honey with a low-calorie honey substitute.
Different cuts: Use chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of thighs.
Add citrus: Mix lime or lemon juice with the glaze for a tangy twist.
Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the spice mix for extra aromatic flavor.

Looking for more tasty dinner recipes? Check out our full collection here.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Equipment You Need

Mixing bowl: To prepare the spice rub and glaze.
Foil-lined baking pan: For easy cleanup and even cooking.
Whisk: To mix the honey and cider vinegar glaze.
Tongs: To flip the chicken pieces without disturbing the coating.
Basting brush: To apply the honey glaze evenly onto the chicken.

How to Make Hot Honey Glazed Chicken?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect hot honey glazed chicken. Don’t rush the steps; the spices and glaze combine to deliver incredible flavor.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by mixing all the dry spices (garlic powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, ground red pepper) in a large bowl. This blend creates the flavorful coating for the chicken. Toss the chicken thighs in the bowl, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Arrange and Broil

Line a baking pan with foil for easy cleanup and place the coated chicken thighs on the pan. Space them out so they cook evenly. Put the pan under the broiler for five minutes. Keep an eye on it to develop a light char but avoid burning.

Step 3: Make the Honey Glaze

While the chicken broils, whisk honey and cider vinegar together in a small bowl. This glaze is what gives the chicken its signature sticky, sweet, and tangy finish.

Step 4: Glaze and Cook

Flip the chicken thighs and return them to the broiler for another five minutes. Once both sides have cooked, brush half the glaze over the chicken, ensuring it’s generously spread.

Cook for three additional minutes. Flip the chicken one last time, apply the remaining glaze, and finish cooking until done. The sugars in the honey caramelize, creating a shiny, flavorful coating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is simply irresistible for many reasons.

Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknights.
The perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
Uses simple spices and ingredients you likely already have.
Pairs with a variety of sides and main dishes.
No frying involved, keeping it light and healthier.

How to Serve Hot Honey Glazed Chicken?

This chicken is endlessly versatile when it comes to serving! Plate it alongside roasted vegetables, such as carrots or green beans, for a hearty yet healthy meal. Pair it with fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed white rice for ultimate comfort food vibes.

For presentation, use a clean white plate to highlight the glossy glaze and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Also, add some spice to your menu with this delicious Hot Honey Chicken Cutlets Recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the breakdown of nutritional facts per serving (chicken thighs only):

Calories: 250
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 10g

Make Ahead and Storage

Hot honey glazed chicken is great for meal prep or leftovers!

Refrigeration: After cooling completely, store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to retain its juicy texture.

Freezing: To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for Making the Recipe

After making this dish multiple times, I have some personal tips to share for the best results.

Use boneless, skinless thicken thighs as they stay juicy during cooking.
Line your baking pan with foil to make cleanup a breeze.
Watch the chicken carefully under the broiler to prevent burning.
Make extra sauce for drizzling over rice or vegetables when serving.
Adjust spices to your heat preference; I always add a little extra red pepper for a kick.

Is Honey Glazed Chicken Healthy?

Yes, honey glazed chicken can be a healthy option when made with lean chicken thighs or breasts and natural sweeteners like honey. The balance of protein, moderate fats, and carbohydrates can fit into a well-rounded meal. Pair it with fresh veggies or whole grains for added nutrition.

Is Hot Honey Very Spicy?

Hot honey strikes a flavorful balance between spice and sweetness. While the red pepper and chili powder add heat, it’s tempered by the sweetness of honey. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can dial back the red pepper for a softer kick.

You’ll still get all the flavor but without the extra burn. Hot honey glazed chicken is the ultimate fusion of simplicity and bold flavor.

Whether it’s your first try or you’ve made it a dozen times, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy experimenting with variations, and don’t forget to share your creations!

Ben Carraoli