Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken

Name: Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken thighs; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking

I absolutely love making Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken because it combines the perfect balance of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds! The combination of sweet honey and spicy Sriracha creates a robust glaze that clings to the chicken beautifully. I have experimented with various spices, and I think I’ve hit the right combination to elevate the dish. Not only is it quick to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with your favorite side, and you’ll have a meal that everyone enjoys!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:29:28.034Z

When I first tried making Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken, I was surprised by how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The key to achieving that perfect glaze is to cook the chicken until it's almost finished before adding the glaze. This method allows the sauce to thicken and caramelize beautifully. I've found that letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld and makes servin' a dinner memorable.

I've also experimented with adding different spices to this recipe, and each variation brings something unique to the table. The addition of garlic and ginger really enhances the overall flavor profile. I recommend marinating the chicken for a bit before cooking to lock in even more flavor. Trust me, you don't want to skip this step!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and spicy as a perfect combination for any palate
Quick recipe that's ideal for weeknight dinners
Exciting glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken

Understanding the Ingredients

The essence of Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken lies in the interplay of its ingredients. Honey serves not only as a sweetener but also enhances browning, giving the chicken a gorgeous, caramelized finish. Sriracha adds a delightful heat that balances the sweetness, making each bite unforgettable. Together, these ingredients create a robust glaze that clings generously to the chicken, ensuring that every piece is packed with flavor.

It's essential to use high-quality soy sauce, as it contributes a savory umami depth to the marinade. Low-sodium varieties are great if you prefer controlling the saltiness. Both minced garlic and ginger bring aromatic qualities that cut through the sweetness and heat, providing a well-rounded flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the amounts of Sriracha to tailor the spiciness to your liking.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

When grilling or skillet-cooking the chicken, maintaining a medium heat is crucial. If the temperature is too high, the glaze can burn before the chicken is cooked through. I recommend a cooking time of 6-7 minutes per side, ensuring to turn the chicken only once to develop a nice char without sticking.

In the latter stages of cooking, applying the reserved marinade is key. This not only enhances flavor but allows the glaze to become slightly sticky and glossy, creating a dynamic texture contrast. Keep a close eye on the chicken during this final step to prevent any caramelization from turning into burnt edges.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, store the glazed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to preserve its juicy texture without drying it out. It can also be sliced and added to salads or grain bowls for a delicious twist on leftovers.

For serving, I suggest pairing this dish with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh vegetable stir-fry. The sweetness of the glaze complements neutral sides perfectly. Moreover, you could top it with sesame seeds or additional chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor, making it not just tasty, but also visually appealing.

Ingredients

The ingredients you'll need for Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken are simple yet flavorful.

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Gather all your ingredients, and let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Set aside a few tablespoons of the marinade for glazing.

Marinate the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then coat them in the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Glaze the Chicken

In the final minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade, allowing it to caramelize slightly.

Serve

Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice, serve, and garnish with chopped green onions.

Your Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add cayenne pepper to the marinade. Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with breasts if you prefer leaner meat.

Variations You Can Try

While I adore the classic Sweet and Spicy combination, you can easily switch up the flavors. Try adding fresh lime juice for a zesty kick or experimenting with different hot sauces for a unique twist. A dash of bourbon in the marinade can introduce a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey.

For a more complex flavor profile, incorporate spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the marinade. These spices add warmth and depth, offering a new dimension to the dish without overpowering the original intention of the glaze.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue you might encounter is the glaze burning during cooking. To prevent this, always keep an eye on the chicken when brushing on the marinade towards the end. If you notice it caramelizing too quickly, reduce the heat immediately. This may require adjusting your cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through without compromising the glaze.

If your chicken thighs are particularly thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness before marinating. This helps ensure even cooking and makes the exterior more prone to the flavorful glaze. Alternatively, using a meat thermometer can help you check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work just fine but may require less cooking time.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe spicy without Sriracha?

Absolutely! You can use hot sauce or chili powder as an alternative.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, marinating the chicken a few hours ahead or even overnight enhances the flavor.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad would complement the flavors beautifully.