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Close-up featured image of delicious Honey Pepper Chicken, highlighting the glaze and crispy texture.

Best Honey Pepper Chicken

This Honey Pepper Chicken recipe balances sweet and spicy flavors for a delicious and easy-to-make meal. Tender chicken is coated in a luscious honey-pepper sauce that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress guests.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
  • Salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Medium bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Pepper grinder
  • paper towels
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels and season with a pinch of salt.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, black pepper, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth to create a slurry.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the chicken in a single layer (in batches if needed) and sear on all sides until lightly browned.
  6. Pour the honey pepper sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
  7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
  8. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet and stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy (1-2 minutes).
  9. Continue to cook the chicken in the sauce for another 5-7 minutes, or until it's cooked through and the sauce has reduced slightly.
  10. Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
  11. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.

Notes

Don't overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). Freshly cracked pepper is key for the best flavor. Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Marinating the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking enhances flavor. Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sichuan peppercorns. To make the sauce less sweet, add lemon juice.