If you’re looking for a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, this Honey Sriracha Chicken is exactly what you need. It’s quick, easy to make, and delivers a flavorful punch that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a fan of sticky-sweet glazes or crave the kick of Sriracha, this dish combines the best of both worlds. So, keep reading to learn how to make this crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings!
What is Honey Sriracha Chicken?
Honey Sriracha Chicken is a dish where tender, juicy pieces of chicken are coated in a sweet and spicy sauce made from honey and Sriracha, a popular hot chili sauce. The combination creates an addictive flavor profile with the heat from the Sriracha tempered by the sweetness of the honey. This recipe is incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and can be made in various ways—grilled, baked, or stir-fried. Whether you're a fan of heat or someone who enjoys milder flavors, you can easily adjust this dish to suit your taste.
Ingredients List for Honey Sriracha Chicken
Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary ingredients. Here's what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- ¼ cup Sriracha sauce
- ⅓ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening sauce)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Ingredients List for Honey Sriracha Sauce (Optional)
If you're a fan of extra sauce for dipping or drizzling, you may want to prepare a little more Honey Sriracha sauce on the side. Here are the ingredients for a quick batch:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Simply mix these ingredients together, and you've got an extra sauce to drizzle over your chicken, rice, or vegetables!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this Honey Sriracha Chicken recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily make substitutions to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Chicken Cut Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture, or even drumsticks if you prefer dark meat. If you're avoiding chicken, this recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option.
- Sriracha Substitutions: If you don't have Sriracha on hand, you can substitute it with another hot sauce like Frank's Red Hot, gochujang, or even sambal oelek for a different kind of heat.
- Honey Substitutions: Maple syrup, agave syrup, or even brown sugar can be used in place of honey. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor profile but will still give you that sweet note you're looking for.
- Soy Sauce Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. Both offer a similar salty umami flavor without the gluten.
- Extra Flavor Boosters: If you want to elevate the dish further, add a splash of fish sauce for umami depth or a bit of fresh ginger for extra warmth.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've got all your ingredients, let’s get started on making this delicious Honey Sriracha Chicken.
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Make the Honey Sriracha Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and minced garlic. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and set it aside for later.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. For chicken breasts, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Add the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, pour the Honey Sriracha sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. If you’re using the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, stir it in now. Simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked and coated in the sticky sauce, transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and flavor. Optionally, squeeze some lime juice over the chicken to balance the sweetness.
How to Cook Honey Sriracha Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you prefer to cook your Honey Sriracha Chicken using different methods, here are some variations to consider:
- Grilled Honey Sriracha Chicken: Marinate the chicken in the Honey Sriracha sauce for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) and then grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes on each side.
- Baked Honey Sriracha Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken in a baking dish, pour the sauce over it, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you like a caramelized glaze, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Air-Fried Honey Sriracha Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the chicken in batches for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Toss with sauce in a large bowl before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Dry chicken is a no-go. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. For breasts, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Not Balancing the Sauce: Sriracha can be quite spicy, so make sure you adjust the amount of honey to find the right balance. Too much Sriracha without enough honey can make the dish overwhelmingly hot.
- Skipping the Rest Time: If you’re grilling or baking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve and present Honey Sriracha Chicken can really elevate the dish, making it not only taste great but also look appealing.
- How to Serve Honey Sriracha Chicken: Serve this dish over steamed white rice or jasmine rice to soak up the sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with stir-fried vegetables, roasted broccoli, or a side of quinoa for a healthier option.
- Presentation Ideas for Honey Sriracha Chicken: Garnish with sesame seeds, freshly chopped green onions, and lime wedges. For added color, serve with a side of bright, fresh vegetables like steamed green beans or a simple cucumber salad. You can also add a sprinkling of cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.
Honey Sriracha Chicken Recipe Tips
- Adjust the Heat: If you're sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of Sriracha, or if you're a heat seeker, feel free to add more or even sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Marinate the chicken in the sauce, then cook when ready for a quick dinner.
- Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to maintain the crispy texture, or in the microwave for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe with bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it will take longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What can I use instead of Sriracha if I don’t have any?
You can substitute Sriracha with another hot sauce like gochujang, sambal oelek, or Frank's Red Hot sauce. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but all will work well.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! Simply reduce the amount of Sriracha or add more honey to balance the spice.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
Conclusion
Honey Sriracha Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, offering a deliciously sticky sauce that coats tender chicken perfectly. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s both flavorful and versatile. Whether you grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Try it tonight and get ready to savor every bite!
PrintHoney Sriracha Chicken Recipe
This Honey Sriracha Chicken recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet honey and spicy Sriracha sauce to create a mouthwatering dish. Simple ingredients like chicken, honey, Sriracha, garlic, and soy sauce bring bold flavors together. Follow easy instructions to whip up this delicious meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Honey
- Sriracha sauce
- Garlic
- Soy sauce
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: sesame seeds, green onions
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, cook chicken until browned on both sides.
- Pour sauce over chicken, simmer until sauce thickens and chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust Sriracha for desired spice level.
- Best served with rice or steamed vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 700mg
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