Spicy Honey Roasted Chicken Recipe: Sweet, Spicy, Crispy & Tender

5/5 - (6 votes)

Spicy Honey Roasted Chicken RecipeIf you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors, this Spicy Honey Roasted Chicken is sure to become a favorite. Originating from a blend of American and Asian culinary traditions, this dish has become popular for its irresistible combination of honey’s sweetness and a fiery kick of spice. The glaze, which caramelizes beautifully during roasting, ensures the chicken is moist, tender, and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply preparing a special weeknight meal, this recipe is bound to impress.

Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a twist on the traditional roast chicken that you’ll want to come back to time and time again.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Spicy Honey Roasted Chicken:

  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust based on heat preference)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a perfect Spicy Honey Roasted Chicken.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, you can start preparing the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Spice Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and minced garlic. This glaze will add both sweetness and a spicy kick to your roasted chicken.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down into the hot skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin becomes crispy and golden. Flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Glaze and Roast

Remove the skillet from heat and pour the spicy honey glaze evenly over the chicken thighs. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the chicken for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The glaze should thicken and caramelize on the chicken during this time.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve.

Tips and Variations

Here are some extra tips and possible variations to personalize your Spicy Honey Roasted Chicken.

  • Spiciness Levels: You can adjust the heat of this dish by varying the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne. If you love extra heat, try using a hotter sauce or adding chili flakes to the glaze.
  • Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a little more honey or a tablespoon of brown sugar for deeper caramelization.
  • Cuts of Chicken: While this recipe calls for thighs, you can also use chicken breasts, wings, or drumsticks. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the cut.
  • Grill Option: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of roasting. Sear on the grill and then brush with the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Vegetable Pairings: Roast some root vegetables alongside the chicken for a complete meal. Carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts work beautifully with the sweet and spicy glaze.
  • Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy skin.

Substitutions

  • Honey: You can swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a slightly different flavor.
  • Hot Sauce: Sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or even buffalo sauce can replace the hot sauce, depending on what you have on hand.
  • Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos work well for those following a gluten-free diet.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 chicken thigh):

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 19g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Sodium: 750mg

This nutritional info will vary based on the exact measurements and any ingredient substitutions used.

Whether you’re craving something bold and flavorful or simply want to try a new twist on traditional roast chicken, this Spicy Honey Roasted Chicken is a must-try recipe. The perfect combination of sweet honey and spicy kick makes it a versatile dish that will wow your taste buds. Best of all, it’s easy to make, ensuring you can enjoy a gourmet-style dinner without hours of prep.

Try out the recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us. We’d love to hear about your experience, and if you have any variations or tips, drop them in the comments below. And while you’re here, check out our other popular recipes like Crispy Fried Boiled Eggs and Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Fried Apples.

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