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sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken strikes an incredible balance between sticky honey, savory soy and garlic, and a crackle of black pepper and chili. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that turns a handful of pantry staples into something special. This recipe is faster, fresher, and more rewarding than takeout.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • For the Chicken:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
  • For the Sweet & Spicy Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
  • For Garnish (Optional):
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • large skillet or wok
  • small bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until each piece is evenly coated. This cornstarch layer is the secret to getting the chicken extra crispy.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated chicken in a single layer. Be sure not to crowd the pan; cook in two batches if necessary. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
  3. Mix the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet you used for the chicken. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly. The sauce should be bubbly and fragrant.
  5. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the glossy, sticky glaze. Let it cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish your Sweet And Spicy Honey Chicken with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

To get the perfect crispy coating, do not crowd the pan and cook the chicken in two batches if necessary. You can adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level. For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or steamed broccoli.