Sriracha Honey Chicken

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy, look no further than this Sriracha Honey Chicken. This recipe promises juicy, tender chicken thighs enveloped in a luscious glaze that brings together the heat of Sriracha and the sweetness of honey. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or planning a gathering with friends, this crowd-pleaser is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why It’s My Go-To

This Sriracha Honey Chicken recipe is my go-to for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also works its magic in just a short time. Plus, the combination of spicy and sweet is universally appealing, making it a hit with both adults and kids alike. And let’s not forget, it’s a one-pan recipe, which means minimal cleanup. Who doesn’t love that?

The Essentials

To make your Sriracha Honey Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs – Trimmed and pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
• 1/2 cup honey – This will add a beautiful sweetness that balances the spiciness.
• 1/4 cup lime juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice gives a vibrant zest to the dish.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – Helps to tenderize the chicken and makes the marinade cohesive.
• 2-3 tablespoons Sriracha – Adjust based on your heat preference; this is where the spice comes from!
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce – Adds umami depth without overwhelming saltiness.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Provides a subtle tang and enhances the flavor profile.
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced or 1 tablespoon garlic powder – For that aromatic touch.
• 2 teaspoons each of smoked paprika and onion powder – For warmth and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon each of ground ginger and ground coriander – Adds a hint of earthiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – To elevate all the flavors.

Tools of the Trade

Before diving into cooking, gather these handy tools:

• Mixing bowl – For whisking together the marinade.
• Meat mallet – To pound the chicken thighs to an even thickness.
• Whisk – To combine your marinade ingredients smoothly.
• Large skillet or frying pan – For cooking the chicken; nonstick is ideal.
• Meat thermometer – To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.

Sriracha Honey Chicken in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil, Sriracha, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic (or garlic powder), smoked paprika, onion powder, ground ginger, ground coriander, and salt. Make sure it’s well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the trimmed and pounded chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once the skillet is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place the thighs in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Glaze the Chicken

In the last few minutes of cooking, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Allow it to simmer, thickening slightly and coating the chicken with a shiny glaze.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is cooked through and glazed, remove it from the heat. Serve your Sriracha Honey Chicken with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to soak up that delicious sauce.

Ingredient Flex Options

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste or based on what you have on hand:

• Swap honey for agave syrup if you prefer a vegan option.
• Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you want a leaner option, but be careful not to overcook them.
• Try adding sesame oil for a nutty flavor.
• For extra heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers.

Avoid These Traps

When preparing your Sriracha Honey Chicken, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

• Don’t skip the marinating time. Even a short period can enhance the flavor dramatically.
• Be cautious with the heat level; start with less Sriracha if you’re unsure of your spice tolerance.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken, as it can lead to steaming instead of searing.
• Do not disregard the resting time after cooking; letting the chicken sit for a few minutes will keep it juicy.

Save It for Later

This Sriracha Honey Chicken is not only delicious but also makes for great leftovers:

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, shred the chicken and toss it onto salads, wraps, or grain bowls for a quick meal. You can also freeze the marinated chicken before cooking it, which makes for an easy future dinner option.

Handy Q&A

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can certainly use chicken breasts! Just be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs.

What can I serve with Sriracha Honey Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it in tacos or over noodles for a fun twist!

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you love heat, try adding more Sriracha or incorporating chopped fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes into the marinade.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight will deepen the flavors and make the chicken even more delicious. Just be cautious with the acidity from the lime juice if marinating for too long.

Once you’ve mastered the Sriracha Honey Chicken, consider trying these other one-pan ideas:

Final Bite

With its sweet, spicy, and savory notes, Sriracha Honey Chicken is a dish that brings joy to the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Its versatility allows for endless adaptations while still delivering that beloved flavor profile. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s equal parts comforting and exciting!