SPICY HONEY-GLAZED CHICKEN

You have no idea how grateful I am that you’re here—thank you for stopping by! Today’s recipe is one I’ve been itching to share for weeks because it’s a total weeknight hero dish: Spicy Honey-Glazed Chicken. Right after the first bite, you’ll see why this is a go-to in my kitchen. It’s juicy, sticky, sweet with a kick of heat, and honestly, so addictive that leftovers barely stand a chance.

If you love easy meals that bring flavor without fuss, you’re in the right place. And hey, if you’re not already subscribed, pop your email in to get this recipe—and many more like it—delivered straight to your inbox. You won’t want to miss what’s coming next!

What Is Spicy Honey-Glazed Chicken?

This recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, savory, and smoky. Tender chicken thighs are seared to golden perfection, then coated in a luscious glaze made of honey, chili flakes, garlic, and a splash of vinegar to round it all out. We’re talking about that irresistible sticky coating that clings to every bite, leaving you licking your fingers (no judgment—I do it too!).

I’ve made this dish for everything from casual Tuesday dinners to Saturday night gatherings, and it always gets applause. You can serve it with rice, over a salad, or even tucked into a sandwich with slaw—versatile doesn’t even begin to cover it.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Honey-Glazed Chicken

• Fast & Easy – Done in under 30 minutes!
• Bold Flavors – Sweet honey meets spicy chili for the perfect contrast.
• Pantry-Friendly – Uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
• Customizable Heat – Mild or fiery, you’re in control.
• Meal-Prep Friendly – Great for leftovers or lunchboxes.

What Does It Taste Like?

This chicken is a flavor bomb. First comes the sweetness of the honey, then a pleasant warmth from the chili flakes, balanced by the slight tang of vinegar and savory depth from garlic and soy sauce. The glaze caramelizes slightly on the pan, creating that sticky-sweet finish that’s anything but boring!!

Health Benefits of Spicy Honey-Glazed Chicken

• Lean Protein: Chicken thighs (or breasts) are a great source of high-quality protein.
• Natural Sweetener: Honey brings antioxidants and is less processed than refined sugar.
• Metabolism Kick: The spice in chili flakes can boost metabolism and digestion.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for this mouthwatering chicken dish:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds depth!)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Lime wedges

Tools You’ll Need

• Large non-stick or cast iron skillet
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!

• Make it less spicy: Cut back on chili flakes or skip them entirely.
• Add a citrus twist: Stir in some orange or lime zest to the glaze.
• Swap the protein: Works great with shrimp or tofu for a lighter option.
• Extra crunch: Toss in some roasted peanuts or cashews just before serving.

How to Make Spicy Honey-Glazed Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 2: Sear

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F). Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and chili flakes.

Step 4: Glaze It Up

Reduce heat to medium. Pour the glaze into the skillet and simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly. Return the chicken to the pan and turn to coat in the glaze.

Step 5: Serve

Top with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side if you like that zippy finish.

What to Serve with Spicy Honey-Glazed Chicken

Here’s where things get fun! This chicken pairs well with:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice
• Garlic roasted broccoli or green beans
• A cool cucumber salad with sesame dressing
• Mashed sweet potatoes
• Warm naan or flatbread

Trust me—the glaze drizzled over rice? Heavenly.

Tips for Perfect Honey-Glazed Chicken

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Sear in batches if needed to get that nice golden crust.
• Use fresh garlic – It adds a punch that jarred garlic just can’t replicate.
• Keep an eye on the glaze – Honey burns quickly, so once it’s in the pan, don’t walk away!
• Rest the chicken – A few minutes of rest helps the juices redistribute for extra juicy bites.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts.
• Freeze: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Spicy Honey-Glazed Chicken FAQs

Final Thoughts: Why You Need This Chicken in Your Life

Sweet. Spicy. Sticky. Satisfying. This Spicy Honey-Glazed Chicken hits all the right notes and proves that fast meals don’t have to be boring or bland. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and totally worthy of being in your regular dinner rotation.

Craving more dishes with this flavor combo? Try my Peach Jalapeño Chicken Skillet or Honey-Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos—they’re both bursting with sweet and spicy goodness!

Share the Love

If you make this recipe, I’d love to see your creations! Tag me on Pinterest and leave a review so we can keep this flavor party going. Your feedback makes my day, every single time.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~310
• Protein: 27g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fat: 14g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 570mg

Print

SPICY HONEY-GLAZED CHICKEN

---

• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Spicy Honey-Glazed Chicken is the ultimate weeknight hero dish—juicy, sticky, sweet with a kick of heat. It’s fast, flavorful, and downright addictive. Perfect for everything from quick dinners to weekend gatherings!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
• Optional Garnishes:
• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Lime wedges

---

Instructions

1. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and chili flakes.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Pour the glaze into the skillet and simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Return chicken to pan and coat in the glaze.
5. Top with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version. Tone down the chili flakes for a milder kick. Great with rice, salad, or flatbread. Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Pan-Sear
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 1/4 recipe)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 570mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: spicy honey-glazed chicken, sticky chicken, easy dinner, sweet and spicy chicken