Hot Honey Chicken Skillet: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Meal

Hot Honey Chicken Skillet: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Meal is a perfect option for busy evenings. This dish features tender chicken and vibrant peppers in a sweet and spicy hot honey tomato sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to casual get-togethers. The standout quality of this skillet meal lies in its balance of flavors, combining sweetness with a hint of heat that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 45 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for weeknight cooking.
• Flavorful: The blend of honey, hot sauce, and spices creates a deliciously unique sauce that elevates the chicken and vegetables.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes—this meal pairs well with your favorite sides.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright bell peppers add visual appeal, making your dinner table more inviting.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild to moderate heat level, this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Below are essential tools for making this Hot Honey Chicken Skillet.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium bowl
• Small saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and sautéing vegetables evenly without crowding.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing the coating ingredients for the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
• Small saucepan: Used to prepare the hot honey sauce efficiently while controlling heat.

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Ingredients

Tender chicken and colorful peppers in a sweet and spicy hot honey tomato sauce. A quick and easy skillet meal perfect for weeknights!

For the Chicken Coating

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Hot Honey Sauce

• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Vegetables

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Tomato Base

• (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

To Taste

• Salt and pepper

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Skillet: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Meal

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add cubed chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add coated chicken to the skillet in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add butter and stir until melted. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Build the Skillet

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and bell peppers; cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

Step 5: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic into the skillet with vegetables; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Pour in diced tomatoes (undrained) along with chicken broth; stir well. Sprinkle dried oregano and dried basil on top; season with salt and pepper as desired. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Blend Everything Together

After about 5-10 minutes of simmering (allowing sauce to thicken), return cooked chicken back into the skillet with vegetables. Pour hot honey sauce over everything; stir gently to coat evenly.

Step 8: Final Simmer

Allow mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes so flavors meld together nicely while warming through.

Step 9: Serve

Taste mixture; adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before enjoying this delightful dish over rice or your preferred side!

This easy-to-make recipe will soon become a favorite on your weeknight dinner rotation!

How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Skillet: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Meal

Serving your Hot Honey Chicken Skillet can elevate this delicious dish to new heights. It’s not just about the main meal but also how you present it and what you pair it with. Here are some ideas to make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Over Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly.
• Brown Rice: Adds a nutty flavor and more fiber for a healthier option.
• Coconut Rice: Offers a slightly sweet twist that complements the spicy honey sauce.

With Quinoa

• Fluffy Quinoa: This protein-rich grain provides a light base, allowing the chicken and veggies to shine.
• Herbed Quinoa: Cook with vegetable broth and fresh herbs for added flavor.

On Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A comforting side that pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Infuse with garlic for an extra punch of flavor.

With Fresh Salad

• Simple Green Salad: Crunchy greens tossed in vinaigrette add freshness to balance the dish.
• Coleslaw: The crunch of cabbage adds texture and a bit of tanginess.

In Tortillas

• Soft Flour Tortillas: Wrap the chicken mixture for a fun twist on traditional tacos.
• Corn Tortillas: A gluten-free option that adds a delightful corn flavor.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Chicken Skillet: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Meal

Perfecting your Hot Honey Chicken Skillet can take your cooking skills to the next level. Here are some tips to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste and presentation of your dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by modifying cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook chicken in batches if necessary. This helps achieve that perfect sear.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing time for flavors to meld enhances depth; don’t rush this step!
• Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley or cilantro adds color and freshness, elevating visual appeal.
• Experiment with Sides: Try different pairings each time you make it for variety in flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Chicken Skillet: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Meal

Pairing side dishes with your Hot Honey Chicken Skillet can enhance both flavor and satisfaction. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Its slight bitterness balances out sweetness from the hot honey sauce; quick to prepare!
2. Garlic Breadsticks – Crispy on the outside, soft inside, making them perfect for dipping into sauce.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized edges provide a lovely contrast in flavors; toss them in olive oil before roasting.
4. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well; sautéed lightly adds texture.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn offers a fresh crunch; grill or boil it for simplicity.
6. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – Spiralized zucchini is a fun, healthy option that’s also gluten-free; sauté briefly before serving.
7. Sweet Potato Fries – Their natural sweetness complements spicy dishes well; bake or air-fry for crispiness.
8. Couscous Salad – Fluffy couscous mixed with veggies makes a great refreshing side that’s easy to whip up!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Hot Honey Chicken Skillet, there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to chop and measure ingredients before cooking can lead to chaos. Always have everything ready to streamline the cooking process.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too much chicken at once can prevent it from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary for optimal texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken can make the dish bland. Ensure you coat the chicken with seasoning thoroughly before cooking.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Not monitoring the cooking time can result in undercooked chicken or overcooked vegetables. Use a timer and check doneness regularly.
• Over-Reducing Sauce: Allowing the hot honey sauce to thicken too much can make it sticky and hard to mix. Keep an eye on it while simmering for a perfect consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Hot Honey Chicken Skillet: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Meal

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Hot Honey Chicken Skillet: A Delicious & Easy Weeknight Meal

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Hot Honey Chicken Skillet.

How do I customize my Hot Honey Chicken Skillet?

You can easily add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or adjust spice levels by adding more or less hot sauce.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb based on your preference.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Hot Honey Chicken Skillet stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping during the week.

How spicy is the Hot Honey Chicken Skillet?

The spice level is adjustable. You can increase or decrease cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes depending on your taste.

What sides go well with this dish?

This skillet pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Hot Honey Chicken Skillet is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its sweet and spicy flavor profile makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, while its quick preparation ensures you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with family. Try customizing it with your favorite veggies or spices; you’ll find it’s a meal everyone will love!