Craving a dish that perfectly balances sweetness and spice? Look no further than Sweet and Spicy Baked Chicken. This dish combines succulent chicken with a flavorful marinade that packs a punch. Whether you’re preparing dinner for family or friends, this recipe will impress everyone at the table.
Origins and Interesting Facts
Sweet and spicy chicken is a beloved dish in many cuisines, known for its balance of flavors. This recipe draws inspiration from both Western and Asian cuisines, blending ingredients like soy sauce, honey, and chili to create a fusion of tastes. In Korea, similar dishes are often called “yangnyeom chicken,” highlighting the use of a bold, flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
For this Sweet and Spicy Baked Chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 8 chicken thighs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Marinade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- Mix the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Arrange in a Baking Dish: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a baking dish. Reserve the remaining marinade.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade halfway through the cooking time for extra flavor.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: While the chicken bakes, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant.
- Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Serve: Serve the sweet and spicy baked chicken with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
Tips and Variations
Tips
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chili flakes or use a milder chili powder.
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Juicy Chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Variations
- Sweet and Spicy Baked Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with bone-in, skin-on thighs for a juicier option. Increase baking time to 35-40 minutes.
- Korean Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade for an authentic Korean flavor.
- Grilled Option: Instead of baking, grill the marinated chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes on each side.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 780mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Sweet and spicy baked chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings excitement to any meal. It’s perfect for those who love a combination of sweet and savory flavors. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful recipe. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations in the comments below. If you loved this recipe, explore more delicious recipes on Easy Crispy Recipes. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and culinary inspirations.