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Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Delight

  • Author: Ashley
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Description

Tender chicken pieces tossed in a sweet, sticky honey sauce with a kick of black pepper and chili flakes. This dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy and can be served over rice, veggies, or enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred): Chicken breasts are commonly used for this dish, but thighs offer a richer flavor and can be substituted easily.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken. You can use other oils, like vegetable or canola oil, if preferred.
  • Salt and pepper: To season the chicken before cooking.

For the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup honey: Adds the sweetness and rich flavor that defines the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and a bit of umami to balance the sweetness of the honey.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar): This provides acidity and helps cut through the sweetness, balancing the flavors.
  • 2 tablespoons water: To thin out the sauce to your desired consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper: The star of the dish, black pepper gives the sauce its characteristic heat and pungency. Freshly cracked black pepper adds a more complex flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): If you prefer more heat, chili flakes add an extra punch. Feel free to omit if you want a milder dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic adds an aromatic layer of flavor to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): If you want a thicker glaze, cornstarch can be used to thicken the sauce.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped green onions: For a burst of color and freshness.
  • Sesame seeds: Adds a nice crunch and visual appeal.
  • Lime wedges: To serve on the side for an extra zing of citrus flavor.

Instructions

First Step: PREPARE THE CHICKEN

  1. Season the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts (or thighs) dry with paper towels. This ensures they cook evenly and develop a nice sear. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. The black pepper will enhance the flavor of the chicken while complementing the peppery sauce.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). If you’re using chicken thighs, they may take a little longer to cook, around 7-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness.
  3. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest on a plate for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Second Step: MAKE THE SWEET AND SPICY HONEY PEPPER SAUCE

  1. Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, water, and freshly cracked black pepper. Add the minced garlic and, if desired, chili flakes for an extra kick. The combination of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy flavors will create the perfect sauce for the chicken.
  2. Cook the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (without cleaning it). Turn the heat to medium and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the sauce to reduce slightly and become more concentrated in flavor.
  3. Thicken the Sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute, until the sauce thickens to your liking. The cornstarch will help the sauce coat the chicken better.

Third Step: COAT THE CHICKEN WITH THE SAUCE

  1. Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Once the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes to absorb some of the flavors.
  2. Rest the Chicken Again: After the chicken is well-coated with the sauce, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This ensures the sauce sticks well to the chicken and allows the flavors to set.

Fourth Step: GARNISH AND SERVE

  1. Garnish: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and drizzle the remaining sauce from the skillet over the top. For added color and flavor, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Lime wedges on the side can be squeezed over the chicken just before serving to add an extra zesty burst.
  2. Serve: Serve your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with your favorite sides. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Protein: 28g

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Find it online: https://mydelightrecipes.com/sweet-and-spicy-honey-pepper-chicken-a-flavor-packed-delight/