Easy Baked Chicken with Spicy Honey Garlic Sauce

Looking for a simple yet flavorful way to prepare chicken? Our easy baked chicken with spicy honey garlic sauce is the perfect solution. The chicken is coated in a blend of savory spices, then baked to juicy perfection. And the spicy honey garlic sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick that will have your taste buds dancing. Best of all, this recipe is easy to make with just a few simple steps. So, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients Needed To Make Baked Chicken:

For the Baked Chicken:

• 4 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, legs, or breasts)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Cooking spray

For the Spicy Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/8 teaspoon habanero powder

Why Dip Chicken in Boiling Water?

Dipping chicken in boiling water briefly before baking can help create crispy skin by tightening and rendering the skin slightly. When the chicken is briefly boiled, it causes the proteins in the skin to coagulate and contract, which helps to draw out some of the moisture from the skin. As the chicken is baked, the skin is able to crisp up and become golden brown.

Additionally, the boiling water can help to remove any excess fat or impurities on the surface of the chicken, which can also contribute to a crispy and evenly browned skin. However, it’s important to make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels after boiling to ensure that the skin is dry before seasoning and baking, which helps the skin to crisp up even more.

Instructions To Make Baked Chicken:

For the Baked Chicken:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chicken pieces and let them cook for 1 minute. Remove the chicken from the pot and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and sprinkle the seasoning mixture over them. Toss until the chicken is well coated.
5. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and spray it with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken pieces on the rack.
6. Bake the chicken for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

For the Spicy Honey Garlic Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, lemon juice, garlic, and habanero powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
4. Serve the sauce alongside the baked chicken.

Tips For Baked Chicken:

1. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach a minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
2. Adjust the spice level: If you prefer your chicken less spicy, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and habanero powder in the recipe accordingly. Conversely, if you like things extra spicy, feel free to increase the amount of these spices.
3. Let the chicken rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices distribute evenly throughout the meat and can make the chicken more tender and juicy.
4. Customize the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasoning blends to make the recipe your own. You could try adding other spices, such as cumin or chili powder, to the seasoning mix for different flavor profiles.
5. Double the recipe: This recipe is easy to double if you’re feeding a larger group. Simply adjust the quantities of the ingredients accordingly and bake the chicken in batches if needed.
6. Serve with a dipping sauce: In addition to the spicy honey garlic sauce, you could offer additional dipping sauces for the chicken, such as a cool ranch or blue cheese dressing. This can be a fun way to add variety to the meal.

Variations:

1. Lemon Herb Chicken: Instead of the spicy honey garlic sauce, try serving the chicken with a lemon herb sauce. Mix together fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Brush the sauce over the baked chicken and enjoy.
2. Barbecue Chicken: Use your favorite barbecue sauce in place of the spicy honey garlic sauce. Brush the sauce over the chicken during the last 10-15 minutes of baking for a deliciously sticky and sweet finish.
3. Asian-Inspired Chicken: Swap out the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper for soy sauce and grated ginger for an Asian-inspired twist. Serve with a side of steamed rice and sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Mediterranean Chicken: Use a blend of dried oregano, thyme, and basil in place of the spicy seasoning mixture. Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
5. Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Mix together grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and breadcrumbs to create a flavorful crust for the chicken. Bake as directed and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Serving Suggestions:

Here are some serving suggestions for your easy baked chicken with spicy honey garlic sauce:

1. Serve with rice: This dish pairs well with a side of steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous. The rice can help soak up any excess sauce and add a satisfying texture to the meal.
2. Add some veggies: Roasted vegetables are a great complement to this dish. Try serving the chicken with a side of roasted broccoli, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
3. Make a salad: A fresh salad is a great way to round out the meal. Try a green salad with mixed greens, sliced cucumber, and cherry tomatoes, or a fruit salad with sliced mango and pineapple.
4. Offer some bread: Bread is a great addition to any meal. Serve this chicken with a side of crusty bread, naan, or pita to help soak up the delicious sauce.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs: Adding some chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro, parsley, or basil, can help brighten up the flavors of the dish and add a pop of color to the plate.

FAQ’s :

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of bone-in chicken pieces?

A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used instead of bone-in chicken pieces. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless chicken breasts will cook faster than bone-in pieces.

Q: Can I make the spicy honey garlic sauce ahead of time?

A: Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat the sauce on the stove over low heat or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of sweetener in the sauce?

A: Yes, you can use a different sweetener in the sauce, such as maple syrup or agave nectar. Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency of the sauce may be slightly different.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance for a party or gathering?

A: The chicken can be seasoned ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake the chicken just before serving for best results.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken?

A: Yes, the chicken can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, store the seasoned chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking. If freezing after baking, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Check out more recipes:

• BEST CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA WITH CREAMY CAJUN SAUCE
• EASY AND DELICIOUS CHICKEN PESTO ALFREDO PASTA RECIPE
• EASY CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA RECIPE

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