Looking for a flavorful dinner that balances heat and sweetness in every bite? Look no further than Honey Jalapeño Chicken! Tender chicken thighs are coated in a crispy, golden crust and tossed in a sticky glaze that combines the sweetness of honey with the fiery kick of jalapeños. It’s a bold, mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for weeknight meals or any time you crave something exciting and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Jalapeño Chicken delivers the perfect harmony of sweet and spicy flavors, with a crispy texture that will make your taste buds sing. The honey and brown sugar glaze coats the chicken in a delightful sticky sauce, while the jalapeños provide just the right amount of heat. The addition of sautéed onions and fresh cilantro enhances the flavor even further, making every bite a treat. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be served with rice or your favorite side, making it a versatile option for any meal. Honey Jalapeño Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1/3 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons neutral oil

For the Sauce:

3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons ginger paste
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Vegetables:

1/2 yellow onion, sliced
2 jalapeños, sliced and seeds removed

For Garnish:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Green onions, chopped
Toasted sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chopped chicken thighs with cornstarch, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in batches if necessary and cook until golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced onion and jalapeños. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still vibrant. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, water, and cornstarch until well combined.
Thicken the Sauce: Return the skillet to medium heat and pour in the sauce. Cook for a few minutes, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens.
Combine and Finish: Add the cooked chicken and vegetables back into the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with rice or your favorite side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 to 5 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Make It Spicier: Add extra jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce to crank up the heat.
Chicken Breasts: You can swap the chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, but be sure to adjust the cooking time.
Vegetarian Option: Use crispy tofu or tempeh as a substitute for chicken for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for more color and crunch.
Sweeten the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey or brown sugar to balance out the spice.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Honey Jalapeño Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you want more heat, add extra jalapeños, or include some crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce. For an even bolder flavor, you can also add a dash of hot sauce.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the skillet when you’re ready to use it.

4. Can I use a different oil for cooking the chicken?

Yes, you can use any neutral oil like vegetable oil, grapeseed oil, or sunflower oil. Just make sure the oil has a high smoke point.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

6. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Fresh chicken is best for this recipe, but you can use frozen chicken if necessary. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

7. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, use crispy tofu or tempeh as a replacement for chicken. Make sure to adjust the cooking time to suit the substitute.

8. What should I serve with Honey Jalapeño Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

9. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas to the skillet when cooking the onions and jalapeños.

10. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Honey Jalapeño Chicken is the ultimate sweet and spicy dish that combines juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful glaze. It’s perfect for those nights when you crave something bold and comforting. Whether you serve it with rice or another side, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation. Try it today and enjoy a mouthwatering meal that’s better than any takeaway!