Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken

Name: Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons chili sauce; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

I absolutely love this Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken recipe! The combination of sweet honey and zesty chili creates a perfect balance that dances on your taste buds. Every time I make this dish, it becomes an instant hit with family and friends. The recipe is simple, taking only a few minutes to prep and cook. I also enjoy the fact that the glaze adds a beautiful shine and flavor to the chicken, making it look just as delicious as it tastes! I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:45:28.323Z

Making this Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken was a delightful experiment in my kitchen! I discovered that marinating the chicken in the glaze not only infuses it with flavor but also helps keep it juicy during cooking. The key is to let the chicken sit for at least 30 minutes; if you have more time, even overnight works wonders for the flavor.

Another great tip I found through trial and error is to use high-quality honey. This makes a significant difference as it influences the overall sweetness and texture of the glaze. Plus, the caramelization that occurs while grilling adds a delicious depth to the dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet and spicy that excites your palate.
Perfectly glazed chicken that's both tender and juicy.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Unlocking Flavor with Marinades

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in this Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken recipe. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. The combination of honey and soy sauce provides a rich sweetness balanced by the chili sauce's heat. I recommend letting the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, extending it to a few hours will enhance the flavors even further. Just ensure to keep it in the refrigerator during this time.

When choosing your marinade container, opt for a glass or ceramic dish to avoid any plastic flavors. As an alternative, you could use a resealable plastic bag, which will allow for more even coating. Just ensure that the bag is sealed tightly to prevent leaks. If you want to switch things up, try adding a splash of lime juice or rice vinegar for a tangy twist that complements the sweetness and heat.

Cooking Techniques for Perfectly Grilled Chicken

For the best results, preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat—around 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving that perfect sear while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Once you've placed the chicken on the grill, resist the temptation to move it around too much; let it sit for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part for safety and optimal juiciness.

During the last few minutes of cooking, applying the reserved marinade adds a beautiful glossy finish to the chicken while intensifying the flavor. Brush it on just before removing the chicken from the heat to avoid any burning from the sugars in the honey. Keep an eye on it, as the glaze will caramelize quickly and should be removed from the grill once it becomes glossy.

Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons chili sauce
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish

Make sure to prep these ingredients ahead of time to make the cooking process smoother!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious glaze and chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, chili sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Glaze the Chicken

During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade to create a glossy glaze.

Serve

Remove from the heat, let it rest for a couple of minutes, then slice and garnish with green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for additional spice.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation is key when serving Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken. After letting it rest for a few minutes, slice the chicken diagonally for an appealing look on the plate. Pair it with a simple side of steamed broccoli or rice to soak up the delicious glaze. For an added pop of color and texture, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top just before serving. This not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a fresh crunch that balances the sweetness of the glaze.

Consider serving this dish with a side of homemade coleslaw or a mixed green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of vegetables complements the savory and sweet flavors of the chicken beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, you could also add some diced mango or cucumber to the salad for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish reheats well; just be careful not to overcook it during the process. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist without drying out. Cover it with a lid and stir occasionally until heated through. This method preserves the lovely glaze while ensuring the chicken remains tender.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the chicken. Ensure it’s well-wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container; it will last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat as mentioned above to revive its flavors. I often make a double batch so I can keep some on hand for quick meals during busy weeks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will result in a juicier dish, but the cooking time may vary slightly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance for deeper flavor.

→ What can I serve with this chicken?

This chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables.