Making this at home will save you a significant amount compared to takeout, and you’ll know exactly what goes into your meal.
Plus, you can adjust the sweet-to-spicy ratio to suit your family’s preferences. The combination of fresh ginger, garlic, and green onions adds layers of flavor that you just can’t get from pre-made sauces.
Just like my popular Honey Garlic Chicken recipe, this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Why not give both recipes a try and decide which becomes your family’s favorite?
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How to Make Sweet and Spicy Chicken
Quick Overview
This mouthwatering dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend celebrations.
The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the sauce creates a beautiful glaze that’s both eye-catching and delicious. You’ll love how quickly this meal comes together, leaving you more time to enjoy with your family.
Key Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Chicken
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish
Vegetable oil for cooking
Sweet and Spicy Chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
Remove chicken from the pan and set aside. Lower heat to medium and pour in the sauce mixture. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken.
Mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and add to the sauce. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Return the chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has properly glazed the chicken.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
What to Serve Sweet and Spicy Chicken With
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which helps soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over cauliflower rice or with stir-fried vegetables. Consider adding a side of Asian slaw or steamed broccoli to round out the meal. For a complete feast, serve it alongside some vegetable spring rolls or a light miso soup.
Top Tips for Perfecting Sweet and Spicy Chicken
Cut the chicken pieces uniformly to ensure even cooking
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken – work in batches if necessary
For extra crispiness, coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch before frying
Adjust the sriracha amount to your preferred spice level
Use chicken thighs instead of breast meat for juicier results
Let the sauce reduce until it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in some of the sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Sweet and Spicy Chicken stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months.
When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, and heat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For best results, store the chicken and any sides separately to maintain their individual textures.
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