Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that everyone will love, look no further! This honey barbecue chicken recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With juicy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
8-9 minutes
Total Time
24 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
To make this delightful dish, start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken without stirring for 3-4 minutes to allow a sear to form. Then, stir the chicken and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until it is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which takes about 3-5 more minutes.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce and honey until smooth. Pour this honey barbecue sauce over the cooked chicken bites in the skillet, stirring until all the pieces are evenly coated. Remove from heat and serve immediately for a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Season the Chicken
Season the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast pieces with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed on all sides of the chicken pieces.
Heat the Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to heat up for a minute.
Add the Chicken
Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Ensure they are spread out in a single layer for even cooking.
Sear the Chicken
Cook the chicken without stirring for 3-4 minutes. This will help develop a nice sear on one side of the chicken.
Cook Through
After 3-4 minutes, stir the chicken gently and continue to cook, stirring occasionally. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F, which should take about 3-5 additional minutes.
Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of barbecue sauce and 1/4 cup of honey until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add Sauce to Chicken
Pour the honey barbecue sauce over the cooked chicken bits in the skillet. Make sure to coat all the pieces evenly.
Combine and Serve
Gently stir the chicken in the skillet until all the chicken bites are evenly coated with the sauce. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
Cooking Time
The total cooking time will be approximately 10-12 minutes depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the heat of your stove.
Storage
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with rice, coleslaw, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
Cook Techniques
Seasoning the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor before cooking.
Searing the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet and add the seasoned chicken without stirring for the first few minutes. This allows a nice sear to form on the chicken, improving texture and flavor.
Cooking Through
Continue to cook the chicken while stirring occasionally until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Making the Sauce
Whisk together barbecue sauce and honey in a separate bowl to create a smooth glaze that will coat the chicken.
Coating the Chicken
After cooking, pour the honey barbecue sauce over the chicken in the skillet and stir until all pieces are evenly coated, enhancing taste and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through.
What can I serve with honey barbecue chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of sauce?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or buffalo sauce if you prefer alternative flavors.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftover honey barbecue chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is mild. You can add cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you want to increase the heat level.
Conclusion
This delicious honey barbecue chicken recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, it’s sure to please any chicken lover.
Chicken and Vegetable Skewers
Combine chunks of marinated chicken with bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a colorful and tasty grill option.
Honey Barbecue Chicken Pizza
Use the honey barbecue chicken as a topping on a pizza base, adding mozzarella cheese and red onions for an exciting flavor combination.
Chicken Tacos with Barbecue Sauce
Shred the cooked honey barbecue chicken and serve it in taco shells with cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of lime for a fresh twist.
Honey Barbecue Chicken Salad
Serve the honey barbecue chicken over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a satisfying salad option.
Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches
Pile the honey barbecue chicken onto toasted buns, adding coleslaw for crunch and a flavorful contrast of textures.
