Description

Craving something bold, sticky, and packed with flavor? This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken delivers the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Tender chicken pieces are pan-seared until golden, then tossed in a glossy honey-pepper glaze that clings to every bite. It’s a quick, mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a crowd-pleasing weekend dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
¼ cup cornstarch
½ tsp salt
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for searing)

For the Honey Pepper Sauce:

⅓ cup honey
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
½ tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
1 tbsp water (additional, if needed)

For Garnish & Serving:

Chopped green onions
Toasted sesame seeds
Steamed jasmine rice or noodles
Stir-fried or steamed vegetables (like broccoli or snap peas)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
Pour sauce mixture into the same skillet (wipe clean if necessary) over medium heat.
Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
If too thick, add a tablespoon of water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Toss Chicken in the Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Toss until the chicken is evenly coated in the sticky sauce.
Simmer for another minute to fully coat and heat through.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Add your favorite veggies on the side for a complete meal.

Notes

Don’t Crowd the Pan – Work in batches to ensure the chicken sears properly.
Use Freshly Ground Pepper – It adds a bold kick that’s essential to this dish.
Adjust Spice to Taste – Add more or less red pepper flakes to control heat.
Thicken Gradually – Stir the cornstarch slurry in slowly to avoid lumps.
Rest the Chicken – Let the cooked chicken rest briefly before saucing to lock in juices.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American–Asian Fusion