Irresistible Sweet & Spicy Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bites: Your Go-To Easy Weeknight Meal

Are you searching for a weeknight dinner that’s anything but boring? Look no further than these incredible Sweet & Spicy Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bites! This mouthwatering dish brings together the irresistible flavors of sweet honey, pungent garlic, and a kick of spicy red pepper flakes, all harmoniously blended into a glorious, sticky sauce. Imagine perfectly crispy chicken breast bites generously coated in this amazing glaze – it’s a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying one-pot meal that will instantly become a family favorite. Get ready for requests for second helpings!

These flavorful easy sticky chicken bites truly burst with a dynamic taste profile. Each piece offers a powerful punch from the spicy red chili and fresh garlic, expertly balanced by the soothing sweetness of golden honey. It’s a delightful dance of contrasting flavors that creates an utterly addictive experience for your palate, making it a standout honey garlic chicken recipe.

Much like beloved recipes such as honey sesame chicken, this quick and easy chicken recipe stands out for its captivating and irresistible taste. It’s the kind of meal that brings excitement back to your dinner table, proving that simple doesn’t have to mean bland. Prepare to add this quick-cooking sensation to your regular rotation for a delicious and hassle-free weeknight dinner.

When you’re looking to break free from your routine dinners, this spicy sweet garlic chicken offers a delicious and exciting alternative. You will love how well these flavors go together, creating a symphony that delights with every bite. It’s a testament to how simple, everyday ingredients can transform into something truly extraordinary with minimal effort.

For a complete and wholesome weeknight meal, these sticky chicken bites pair perfectly with a side of fluffy rice – whether white or brown – and some vibrant steamed or sautéed vegetables. Think crisp broccoli, tender green beans, or colorful bell peppers to round out your plate and add nutritional value.

If you’re eager to explore more quick and easy chicken breast recipes that are big on flavor, be sure to try this rich and tasty creamy garlic chicken or our delightful smothered chicken recipe. And for those who can never get enough heat, my Alabama Firecrackers recipe is an absolute must-try! Get ready to spice up your culinary repertoire with these incredible dishes.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love These Spicy Sweet Garlic Chicken Bites

Beyond being incredibly delicious, there are so many reasons why these sticky honey garlic chicken bites will quickly become a cherished recipe in your household. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish truly special and a perfect contender for your regular meal rotation:

• Effortless & Exquisite Flavor: Often, “quick and easy” recipes sacrifice taste for convenience. But not this garlic sticky chicken recipe! This dish proves that you can achieve incredibly rich, restaurant-quality flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. From prep to plate, it’s designed to be simple, yet delivers a gourmet experience that you’ll genuinely crave. It’s the perfect balance of speedy preparation and unforgettable taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you still want a satisfying meal.
• Minimal Cleanup, Maximum Enjoyment: Who loves a sink full of dishes after dinner? Nobody! That’s why you’ll appreciate the minimal cleanup involved with this one-pot chicken meal. Primarily, all you’ll need is a single large skillet and a mixing bowl for seasoning the chicken. This means less scrubbing and more time to relax and enjoy the company of your family, or simply savor the delicious flavors you’ve just created. It’s a weeknight dream come true for efficiency!
• Exciting Flavor Profile with Everyday Ingredients: It’s easy to fall into a culinary rut, making the same few meals repeatedly. This spicy sweet garlic chicken offers a fantastic escape from the ordinary, introducing a vibrant, Asian-inspired flavor that feels fresh and exciting. The best part? You won’t need any exotic or hard-to-find ingredients. Many of the items are likely already in your pantry – honey, soy sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes are kitchen staples that come together to create something truly extraordinary, without a special trip to the grocery store.
• Highly Versatile and Adaptable: One of the greatest advantages of this honey garlic chicken bites recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s preference, from mild to extra hot. It also serves as an excellent base for adding more vegetables, turning it into a complete stir-fry. Its adaptable nature means you can tailor it to your family’s tastes and what you have on hand, making it a truly flexible dinner option for any occasion.
• Fantastic for Meal Prep: If you’re into meal prepping, these sticky chicken bites are a game-changer. They store wonderfully in the refrigerator and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for pre-portioned lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. The flavors tend to meld even further overnight, arguably making leftovers even more delicious!

Essential Equipment for Crafting Your Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Preparing these delicious spicy honey garlic chicken bites doesn’t require an arsenal of kitchen gadgets. In fact, one of its many appeals is how few tools you actually need. Here’s a list of the basic equipment that will make your cooking process smooth and efficient:

• Large Skillet: A cornerstone of one-pan meals! A large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron, stainless steel, or non-stick will all work well) is crucial for searing the chicken evenly and developing that beautiful golden-brown crust. It also needs to be large enough to comfortably accommodate all the chicken pieces without overcrowding, which is key for proper searing and preventing the chicken from steaming instead of browning. This same skillet will then be used to simmer and thicken your incredible sticky sauce.
• Mixing Bowl for Seasoning: You’ll need a medium to large mixing bowl to toss your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and cornstarch. This ensures each piece is evenly coated, which is vital for achieving that desired crispy exterior before the sauce is added.
• Meat Thermometer: While not strictly mandatory for experienced cooks, a reliable meat thermometer is highly recommended, especially when cooking chicken. It’s the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking and drying it out. This guarantees both food safety and the best possible texture for your honey garlic chicken.
• Whisk (Optional but Recommended): A small whisk can be very helpful for smoothly combining your sauce ingredients before adding them to the pan, ensuring there are no lumps and all flavors are well-integrated.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For safely and efficiently cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.

Key Ingredients for Your Spicy Sweet Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe

This section provides detailed notes on the ingredients needed for these irresistible chicken bites, along with helpful substitution options. You’ll find all precise measurements, ingredient quantities, and step-by-step instructions in the comprehensive printable recipe card located at the very end of this post.

The beauty of this sweet and spicy chicken recipe lies in its reliance on common pantry staples that come together to create a symphony of flavors:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! Cutting the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch) is essential for even and quick cooking. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor and more tender texture, though they may require a minute or two longer to cook through.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Crushed Red Pepper): These little flakes are where the “spicy” in our spicy honey garlic chicken comes from. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your heat preference – add more for an extra kick or less for a milder flavor.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic is crucial for that classic aromatic and savory foundation. We recommend using fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic from a jar can work in a pinch for convenience.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken, olive oil provides a light, fruity flavor. You can readily substitute it with other neutral oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil, depending on what you have on hand.
• Soy Sauce: This provides a deep umami flavor and saltiness. We highly recommend using a low-sodium soy sauce to better control the overall salt content of the dish. For a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent alternative.
• Honey: The “sweet” and “sticky” element! Honey not only provides natural sweetness but also contributes to the beautiful glossy, sticky glaze that coats the chicken. Any type of honey will work, from wildflower to clover.
• Ketchup: This might seem like an unexpected ingredient, but ketchup adds a delightful tang, a hint of sweetness, and a lovely depth of color to the sauce, making it incredibly well-rounded.
• Butter: Used in combination with olive oil to give the chicken a rich, golden sear and a wonderful buttery flavor. If you’re using salted butter, you might want to reduce or omit the additional salt added to the chicken to prevent it from becoming too salty.
• Cornstarch: This is a dual-purpose ingredient. First, it lightly coats the raw chicken pieces, creating a thin, crispy crust when seared. Second, it acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, transforming it into a luxurious, sticky glaze that clings perfectly to the chicken.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the entire dish, cutting through the richness and adding a zesty counterpoint to the sweet and savory flavors.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and balance the sauce. Season to your personal taste.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional Garnish): A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley at the end adds a pop of color and a touch of fresh, herbaceous flavor, elevating the presentation. Green onions or sesame seeds also make fantastic garnishes!

The magic truly happens when these simple ingredients combine in the skillet, transforming into the rich, glossy, and perfectly balanced sauce that defines these sweet and spicy chicken bites. Each component plays a vital role in creating that irresistible sticky, savory, and subtly sweet flavor that everyone will adore.

Creative Substitutions and Delicious Variations for Your Chicken Bites

While this honey garlic chicken bites recipe is perfect as written, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Don’t hesitate to experiment with these suggestions to tailor the dish to your taste, dietary needs, or what you have available in your kitchen:

• Crispier Chicken with Panko: For those who love an extra crunchy exterior, take your chicken bites to the next level by coating them in panko breadcrumbs. After tossing the chicken in cornstarch, lightly press each piece into a shallow dish of panko before searing. This will create a thicker, incredibly crispy crust that holds up beautifully to the sticky sauce, adding another layer of texture.
• Alternative Garnishes: Fresh parsley adds a lovely touch, but feel free to get creative with your garnishes. To enhance the Asian-inspired profile of these sticky chicken bites, try a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds (white or black) for a nutty crunch, or thinly sliced green onions (scallions) for a mild oniony bite and vibrant color. A combination of both is also fantastic!
• Transform into a Complete Stir-Fry: Easily turn this dish into a hearty one-pan stir-fry meal! After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet momentarily. Add your favorite stir-fry vegetables, such as sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms, and sauté until tender-crisp. Then, return the chicken to the pan, add the sauce ingredients, and once thickened, you can even stir in cooked rice or noodles for a truly all-in-one meal.
• Different Proteins: Not a fan of chicken breast? This versatile sauce works beautifully with other proteins. Try boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result, or even shrimp for a quicker-cooking option. For a vegetarian twist, firm tofu or tempeh, pressed and cubed, would also absorb the flavors wonderfully.
• Adjusting the Sweetness: While honey is key for that signature sticky glaze, you can experiment with other sweeteners. A touch of brown sugar or maple syrup could be used, though they might alter the consistency and flavor profile slightly. Always adjust to your preference.
• Amp Up the Heat: If you’re a true spice fiend, there are several ways to make these spicy chicken bites even hotter! In addition to increasing the red pepper flakes, consider adding a dash of sriracha, a few drops of chili oil, or finely minced fresh bird’s eye chilies to the sauce for an intense fiery kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe completely gluten-free, simply swap out regular soy sauce for tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar umami depth. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Spicy Sweet Garlic Chicken Bites

Follow these easy steps to create the most delectable spicy sweet garlic chicken bites right in your own kitchen. This section walks you through the process with clear instructions and helpful tips. For the complete, detailed recipe, including all precise measurements and ingredient quantities, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken for Searing

Begin by placing your bite-sized chicken pieces into a clean mixing bowl. Season them generously with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Next, sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken and toss thoroughly until each piece is lightly and evenly coated. The cornstarch is crucial here as it will create a delicate, crispy crust when the chicken is seared, and it also aids in thickening the sauce later. Set the chicken aside while you prepare your skillet.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to melt and the mixture to shimmer slightly, indicating it’s hot enough. Carefully add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces to the hot skillet, ensuring you shake off any significant excess cornstarch. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper searing rather than steaming. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully seared to a golden brown on all sides and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. This step is key for texture and flavor.

Step 3: Create the Irresistible Sticky Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, add the remaining ingredients for the sauce directly into the skillet with the chicken. This includes the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well, ensuring all the chicken pieces are coated. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to bubble and slightly thicken, transforming into a glossy, sticky glaze that beautifully coats each chicken bite. The aromas at this stage will be incredible!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve Immediately

Remove the skillet from the heat to prevent the sauce from over-reducing. Garnish your delicious spicy honey garlic chicken breast bites with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. Serve these delectable bites immediately, ideally over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up all that amazing sticky sauce. Pair with your favorite vegetables for a complete and utterly satisfying meal. Enjoy every last bite!

Storing & Reheating Your Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites

These honey garlic chicken bites are so delicious, you might not have many leftovers! But if you do, they store wonderfully for future meals. Proper storage and reheating will ensure they remain flavorful and safe to eat.

Storage: To keep your leftovers fresh, transfer any unused spicy sweet chicken into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the container is sealed well to maintain freshness and prevent other food odors from affecting its taste.

Reheating: When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you have a few options for reheating:

• Stovetop: This is often the best method to maintain some crispness. Place the chicken bites in a skillet over medium-low heat with a tiny splash of water or chicken broth. Cover and heat gently, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Microwave: For a quick reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and microwave in 30-60 second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be mindful that the chicken might lose some of its crispiness.
• Oven/Air Fryer: For crispier results, especially if you want to avoid a soggy texture, spread the chicken on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, until hot.

Regardless of the method, always ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving to ensure it is thoroughly and safely reheated.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites

These incredibly flavorful sticky garlic chicken bites are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Rice, Glorious Rice: The sticky sauce is practically begging to be soaked up by fluffy grains! Serve your chicken over a bed of classic white rice, healthier brown rice, or a more adventurous Instant Pot chicken fried rice. Even simple jasmine or basmati rice will complement the flavors perfectly, providing a neutral base for the vibrant sauce.
• Noodles: If you’re a noodle lover, these chicken bites are fantastic with a side of lo mein, ramen noodles (perhaps in a light broth), or even simple egg noodles. The sauce clings beautifully to them, creating a delightful texture and taste experience that enhances the overall meal.
• Vibrant Vegetables: To balance the richness of the chicken and sauce, always include a generous portion of vegetables. Steamed or sautéed vegetables like crisp broccoli florets, tender green beans, thinly sliced carrots, zucchini rounds, or colorful bell peppers are excellent choices. A quick ramen stir-fry with mixed vegetables can also make a fantastic companion, incorporating a variety of textures and nutrients.
• Fresh Salad with an Asian Twist: For a lighter, refreshing contrast, serve a crisp green salad alongside. Elevate it with toppings like crunchy wonton strips, toasted slivered almonds, dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness, and a complementary sweet sesame or ginger dressing. This adds a wonderful textural and flavor dimension to the meal.
• Appetizers & Breads: Consider starting with some Alabama Firecrackers for an extra spicy kick, or simple toasted bread to sop up any extra sauce. Garlic naan or even plain crusty bread can also be a surprisingly good pairing to ensure no drop of that delicious sauce goes to waste.

No matter what you choose, these sweet and spicy chicken bites are sure to be the star of your plate!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites

Here are some common questions and helpful answers to ensure your sticky honey garlic chicken bites turn out perfectly every time:

Be sure to come back and let me know how your Sweet & Spicy Chicken Bites turned out! I love hearing about your culinary creations.

More Easy Weeknight Dinners

• 3-Ingredient Chili
• Ritz Chicken Casserole
• Garlic Butter Steak Bites – ready in 20 minutes!
• One-Pot Taco Spaghetti
• Tater Tot Casserole
• Jalapeño Popper Chicken

Recipe

Recipe

4.82 from 11 votes

Spicy Sweet Garlic Chicken Bites

Author: Jaclyn

Prep:

10 minutes
mins

Cook:

10 minutes
mins

Total:

20 minutes
mins

Sweet and spicy garlic chicken bites with honey, fresh garlic, and red pepper flakes for the perfect balance of sweet and spicy

Servings:

4
servings

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Ingredients

 

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  pound
  boneless skinless chicken breasts
  cut into 1 inch pieces

• 
  ▢
  
  
  3
  Tablespoons
  cornstarch

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  Tablespoon
  olive oil

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  Tablespoon
  butter

• 
  ▢
  
  
  ¼
  cup
  honey

• 
  ▢
  
  
  3
  Tablespoons
  soy sauce

• 
  ▢
  
  
  4
  garlic cloves
  minced

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  Tablespoon
  ketchup

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  Tablespoon
  lemon juice

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  teaspoon
  red pepper flakes

• 
  ▢
  
  
  salt and pepper
  to taste

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  Tablespoon
  fresh chopped parsley
  optional garnish

Instructions

• Place the chicken in a mixing bowl. Season lightly with salt and pepper and toss the chicken in the cornstarch to coat. Set aside.
• Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, shaking off any excess cornstarch. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is seared a golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Add the remaining ingredients to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.
• Remove the skillet from heat and garnish chicken with fresh parsley. Serve immediately, over rice if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

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

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