Sweet and Spicy Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances bold, zesty flavors with a hint of sweetness. This dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky glaze made from a blend of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and chili, creating a delightful contrast between the sweet and spicy elements. Whether served over rice, noodles, or with a side of vegetables, this dish is sure to satisfy cravings for something both comforting and exciting. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, Sweet and Spicy Chicken is an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust for desired heat level)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Toss the chicken in cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the soy sauce, honey, sriracha or chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Coat the chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until all the pieces are evenly coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the Sweet and Spicy Chicken with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with your favorite vegetables.
Sweet and Spicy Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that offers the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. It’s a great way to spice up your dinner routine and impress your taste buds with a burst of delicious flavors!
