Chef Mitchell preparing Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered the delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors while traveling through Asia. After a few attempts in my own kitchen, I perfected this recipe to capture the essence of that culinary adventure. Now, my Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight has become a family favorite, enjoyed at gatherings and special occasions alike. Each bite brings back memories of vibrant street markets and delicious food."

Chef Mitchell has spent over a decade mastering Asian cuisine, specializing in creating easy and delicious dinner recipes. He believes that cooking should be accessible to everyone, and his passion shines through in his expertly crafted dishes. With a focus on fresh ingredients and robust flavors, he continues to inspire home cooks around the world.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight served on a plate

Why This Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight Recipe Works

This Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight stands out due to its balance of sweet and spicy flavors, which create a unique taste experience. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps it to remain juicy during cooking. The glaze adds a beautiful shine and depth to the dish, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.

The technique of marinating the chicken ensures that each piece is bursting with flavor. Cooking the chicken in a hot skillet allows for a perfect sear, while finishing with a glaze creates a sticky, indulgent coating. This method guarantees a dish that impresses both in taste and presentation.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight if time allows. This enhances the flavors and makes the chicken incredibly tender. Be sure to cook the chicken on medium-high heat to achieve that perfect caramelization without overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinade in advance. Simply marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Cook it fresh just before serving for the best taste and texture. Leftover chicken can also be reheated the next day.

If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute tamari for soy sauce. Alternatively, coconut aminos can be used for a soy-free alternative. Both will give a similar flavor profile while accommodating dietary restrictions.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The meat should be juicy and no longer pink in the center. You can cut into a piece to check; if the juices run clear, it is fully cooked.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up the delicious glaze. For added color and nutrition, consider serving it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad. You could also add spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Leftover Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To maintain the best texture and flavor, reheat gently before consuming.

Yes, you can prepare and marinate the chicken a day ahead. Just cook it fresh before serving. If you have leftovers, they can be stored and reheated the next day, although the glaze may not be as sticky as when freshly made.

The best way to reheat this dish is in a skillet over medium heat, which helps to retain moisture. You can add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be sure to cover it to keep the chicken moist.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may end up dry if overcooked or if not marinated long enough.

Solution: Ensure the chicken is cooked just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Marinating for longer will also help tenderize the meat.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Chicken might not achieve a crispy texture if not seared at high heat.

Solution: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the pan to allow for proper browning.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The chicken can become tough and dry if overcooked.

Prevention: Monitor cooking time and use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Once it reaches the appropriate temperature, remove it from the heat immediately.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The chicken may be undercooked if the pieces are too thick.

Recovery: Cut larger pieces in half to ensure even cooking, and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the chicken burns on the outside before cooking through, it may be due to high heat.

Prevention: Cook on medium heat and adjust as needed, allowing the chicken to cook through without burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or more soy sauce to balance the sweetness.

Too Salty: If too salty, add a small amount of sugar or honey to counteract the saltiness.

Bland: To enhance flavor, add more garlic, ginger, or red pepper flakes to increase the spice level.

Fresh ingredients for Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight

Essential Ingredients for Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight

This recipe requires simple yet flavorful ingredients that create a harmonious blend of tastes. The chicken serves as the main protein, while the marinade ingredients provide depth and complexity. Fresh garlic and ginger add a fragrant note, while honey brings the sweetness that balances the heat from the red pepper flakes.

Using high-quality soy sauce is vital for achieving the best flavor. Opt for organic options when available, as they often have a richer, more natural taste. Fresh vegetables not only enhance the dish's nutrition but also add color and texture, making the meal visually appealing.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choose skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. They hold moisture well, making them ideal for glazing. If using chicken breasts, be cautious not to overcook them as they can dry out.
  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake. This will help control the overall sodium content of the dish without sacrificing flavor.
  • Honey: Use pure honey rather than honey blends to ensure the best flavor and consistency. This will help achieve that perfect glaze that coats the chicken beautifully.
Cooking process for Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight is straightforward and enjoyable. Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor. Cooking in a hot skillet allows for a crispy exterior while maintaining juiciness inside. The glaze is made by thickening the marinade, which enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.

Achieving perfect results requires attention to the heat level and timing. A hot skillet sears the chicken, locking in moisture while creating a delicious caramelization on the outside. By finishing off with the glaze, you’ll get a visually stunning dish that tastes as good as it looks.

Key Technique for Perfect Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight

The most crucial technique in this recipe is marinating the chicken adequately. This process not only builds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Additionally, cooking over medium-high heat is essential for achieving a crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken. Mastering these techniques will ensure a delightful dining experience.

Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup soy sauce
    For marinade and glaze
  • 1/2 cup honey
    For sweetness
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
    For acidity
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
    Adds flavor
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    For aroma
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
    Enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
    For heat

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
    For cooking
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
    For garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
    For garnish
  • 2 cups steamed jasmine rice
    For serving
  • 1 cup stir-fried vegetables
    For serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Gather all your ingredients and cut the chicken into pieces. Mince the garlic and ginger, and chop the green onions.

  2. Make the Marinade

    In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.

  3. Marinate the Chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

  4. Cook Chicken

    In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 10-15 minutes.

  5. Prepare the Sauce

    Remove chicken from the skillet. In the same skillet, add the marinade and bring to a boil. Mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce to thicken.

  6. Glaze the Chicken

    Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the thickened glaze. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

  7. Serve

    Serve the Spicy Glazed Chicken over jasmine rice, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

  8. Enjoy

    Enjoy your delicious Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight with stir-fried vegetables on the side.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

For an enjoyable meal, serve Spicy Glazed Chicken Delight with steamed jasmine rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables. Add a light Asian-style salad for a refreshing touch, or pair with spring rolls for a more filling experience.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition. You can also use teriyaki sauce instead of the marinade for a sweeter flavor, or substitute tofu for a vegetarian option.