Description
Bold, sticky, and bursting with flavor, this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken is the ultimate crave-worthy dish that hits all the right notes. Tender, pan-seared chicken pieces are glazed in a glossy sauce made with sweet honey, cracked black pepper, and just enough heat to make your taste buds dance. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, game day meals, or anytime you’re craving something sweet, savory, and spicy all at once.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
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½ cup cornstarch
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp garlic powder
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2–3 tbsp oil for frying
For the Honey Pepper Sauce:
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⅓ cup honey
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3 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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1 tbsp ketchup (adds depth and tang)
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1 tbsp chili garlic sauce or sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
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1½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)
For Garnish & Serving:
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Green onions, chopped
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Sesame seeds (optional)
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Steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
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In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed) and cook 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
4. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
5. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, ketchup, chili sauce, garlic, and black pepper.
6. Add the sauce to the same skillet over medium heat and bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Toss & Coat
8. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sticky honey pepper glaze.
9. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is hot and glossy.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
10. Serve over rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper – It makes a huge difference in flavor intensity.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry chicken in batches for a crispy finish.
Control the Heat – Add more chili sauce or even red pepper flakes for extra spice.
Keep the Chicken Crispy – Add it to the sauce right before serving.
Double the Sauce – If serving with rice or noodles, extra sauce goes a long way.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired