Hot Honey Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that combines crispy, juicy chicken with a spicy-sweet glaze that’s truly irresistible. The heat from the chili flakes and the sweetness of the honey create a perfect balance that makes every bite a delight. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is a go-to for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Serve it with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables, and watch it disappear fast! If you love a little kick with your chicken, this Hot Honey Chicken recipe is calling your name.

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Large Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: Perfect for getting a good sear on the chicken.
Small Saucepan: For making the hot honey glaze.
Tongs: To easily turn the chicken.
Whisk or Spoon: For mixing the glaze.

Ingredient Overview

Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for maximum flavor and crispy skin, but boneless, skinless thighs or breasts can also be used.
Honey: The sweetness balances the spiciness perfectly, adding a caramelized texture to the glaze.
Hot Sauce and Chili Flakes: These bring the heat, which you can adjust to your liking.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder (optional) for extra flavor.
Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil, then add the chicken skin side down. Cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Prepare the Hot Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, chili flakes, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk together and bring to a simmer over low heat. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust the spice level to taste.
Glaze the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Pour the hot honey glaze over the chicken, turning to coat each piece well. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer in the glaze for another 8–10 minutes until fully cooked.
Finish and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through and the glaze has thickened, transfer to a serving plate. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness.

Recipe Tips

Adjust the Spice: Add more or fewer chili flakes depending on your heat preference.
Make it Extra Crispy: If using bone-in, skin-on chicken, start by searing the chicken skin side down until it’s extra crispy.
Use Leftover Glaze: The leftover hot honey glaze can be drizzled over roasted vegetables or rice.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Hot Honey Chicken pairs well with steamed rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, add some roasted carrots or broccoli.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this with chicken wings?
A: Yes! Chicken wings work great with this recipe. Simply adjust the cooking time, as wings cook faster.

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken?
A: Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.

Q: Is there a substitute for apple cider vinegar?
A: White vinegar or lemon juice can work as substitutes for the acidity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hot Honey Chicken on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. For extra flavor, add a lemon wedge on the side.

Equipment

Large skillet or cast-iron pan
Small saucepan
Tongs
Whisk or spoon

Ingredients

Chicken
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless thighs or breasts)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
Hot Honey Glaze
1/3 cup honey
2–3 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Season the Chicken
Pat dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Sear the Chicken
Heat oil in a skillet and cook chicken skin side down until golden and crispy. Set aside.
Make the Glaze
In a saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, chili flakes, and vinegar. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Glaze the Chicken
Return chicken to the skillet, coat in glaze, and simmer for 8–10 minutes.
Serve
Transfer to a plate, drizzle with glaze, garnish, and enjoy!

Summary

Hot Honey Chicken combines juicy chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze that’s full of flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s quick, easy, and sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Notes

Use leftover glaze for vegetables