Hot Honey Chicken Recipe You’ll Love

Name: Hot Honey Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/3 cup hot honey; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp lemon juice

Published: December 16, 2025

by Mahdibrs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation means you can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes.
The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweetness and spice that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Its visual appeal with a glossy glaze makes it irresistible on any plate.
Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or fancy occasions—this recipe fits all occasions effortlessly.

Ingredients for hot honey chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 pieces work perfectly, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
Hot Honey: Look for a good-quality hot honey or make your own by infusing honey with chili flakes.
Garlic Powder: A staple in many kitchens; it adds depth and flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist while adding healthy fats.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to manage saltiness while still providing umami flavor.
Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity balances the sweetness from the honey beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make hot honey chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, grab a baking dish and coat it lightly with nonstick cooking spray so your chicken doesn’t play hide-and-seek during cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Rinse your chicken breasts under cool water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them in the baking dish and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Don’t skimp here; those flavors are essential!

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine hot honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed—this sauce is about to be your secret weapon!

Step 4: Glaze Time

Pour half of this glorious mixture over the seasoned chicken in your baking dish. Use tongs or a brush to ensure each piece gets some love from that sticky goodness.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). You want juicy chicken; don’t walk away just yet!

Step 6: Finish Strong

Once cooked through, remove it from the oven and brush on more of that tasty sauce before letting it sit for five minutes—patience pays off! Transfer to plates and drizzle any remaining glaze over top for that perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! Hot honey chicken that’s easy enough for any night but impressive enough for guests. Gather around the table because this dish promises not just satisfaction but joy in every bite.

You Must Know

This hot honey chicken recipe is not just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance.
Quick to prepare and bursting with sweetness and heat, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.
The golden glaze makes it look as good as it tastes!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in the hot honey mixture for at least 30 minutes. Then, sear the chicken on high heat until crispy before finishing in the oven. While it bakes, whip up a side of veggies or rice for a complete meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the protein—this recipe works wonders with tofu or shrimp too. Want extra crunch? Toss in some chopped nuts or seeds. You can also adjust the heat by adding more or less chili flakes according to your spice tolerance.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, preserving that crispy texture you love.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly juicy hot honey chicken, ensure your chicken is fully coated in marinade for maximum flavor.
Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing to get that delightful crispy surface.
Let it rest after cooking for even juicier results.

I remember the first time I made this hot honey chicken for friends—it was a hit! They raved about how they had never tasted something so sweet and spicy together. It was one of those moments where you know you’ve nailed it!

FAQs :

What is hot honey chicken?

Hot honey chicken is a delicious dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a spicy and sweet honey sauce. This popular recipe elevates ordinary fried chicken, making it perfect for dinner or as a party appetizer. The blend of heat from chili flakes and sweetness from honey creates a unique flavor profile that appeals to many palates.

How can I make hot honey chicken at home?

To make hot honey chicken at home, start by marinating your chicken in buttermilk for tenderness. Then, coat it in seasoned flour before frying until golden brown. For the hot honey sauce, mix honey with chili flakes and drizzle it over the fried chicken just before serving. It’s simple yet bursting with flavor.

Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various cuts of chicken for hot honey chicken. Bone-in pieces like thighs and drumsticks provide great flavor and moisture. Boneless options like breasts or tenders work well too, offering a quicker cooking time. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked properly.

What sides pair well with hot honey chicken?

Hot honey chicken pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables. You might also enjoy serving it with rice or mashed potatoes to balance the dish’s sweetness and heat. Whatever you choose, these sides complement the flavors perfectly while adding texture to your meal.

Planning your weekly menu? Browse these dinner recipe ideas for more delicious inspiration.

Conclusion for hot honey chicken :

In summary, hot honey chicken is an irresistible dish that combines crispy, flavorful fried chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce. By following simple steps like marinating and frying the chicken, anyone can create this tasty meal at home. Pair it with your favorite sides for an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy the unique combination of flavors that this dish brings to the table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card