Are you craving a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that's bursting with deliciousness? Look no further! This Hot Honey Chicken recipe is your answer. It's a quick, healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights, impressing both family and friends with minimal effort. This recipe offers a fantastic balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your repertoire of delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
Homemade Hot Honey (Optional):
- 1 cup honey
- 1/4 cup red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
Instructions:
Making the Hot Honey (If Homemade):
- Combine honey and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Stir gently until the honey is melted and the pepper flakes are evenly distributed.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
Cooking the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the chicken pieces to the flour mixture and toss to coat evenly. Ensure each piece is fully covered.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer to a serving dish.
- Drizzle generously with hot honey.
Tips for the Best Hot Honey Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steamed, rather than seared, chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes in the hot honey or use a milder chili. For extra heat, add more!
- Serve immediately: This dish is best served fresh off the skillet, while the chicken is still juicy and the honey is warm and gooey.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Toss some broccoli florets or sliced bell peppers into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a complete and healthy meal.
- Use different cuts of chicken: Chicken thighs or drumsticks will also work well in this recipe. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Hot Honey Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition. It’s a delicious addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, perfect for a satisfying and healthy meal. Enjoy!