Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites

Name: Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp sriracha; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tbsp soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Ending Recipes

I absolutely love making Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites for gatherings and quiet nights in alike. The combination of sweetness from the honey and the kick from the sriracha creates a mouthwatering flavor that truly leaves an impression. After experimenting with different seasoning blends, I found that marinating the chicken overnight yields the juiciest bites. Plus, they cook up quickly, making them perfect for when unexpected guests drop by or when I just want a delicious snack!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T14:10:29.711Z

When I first created these Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites, I was looking for a quick yet flavorful dish to serve at a last-minute gathering. After a few trials, I discovered that balancing the sweetness and heat was the key to making the dish truly outstanding. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps keep it tender during cooking.

To enhance the flavors even more, I recommend using fresh garlic and ginger in the marinade, as they add an incredible aromatic quality. These bites can easily be served with a side of rice or on skewers for a fun presentation!

        What You'll Love About These Bites
        A perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
Juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor

      

Marinating Magic

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that dramatically enhances its flavor and tenderness. The honey not only adds sweetness but also helps create a beautiful caramelization when baked. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you can plan ahead, opt for an overnight soak to develop deeper flavors. This also helps the chicken maintain moisture during cooking, preventing it from drying out.

When mixing the marinade, ensure everything is well combined before adding the chicken to ensure every piece gets evenly coated. Consider using a resealable plastic bag for marinating; it allows the marinade to coat the chicken thoroughly without any mess. If you're short on time, even a 30-minute marinate can improve the taste, but more time always gets you that rich depth of flavor.

Cooking Tips

Baking the marinated chicken at the right temperature is essential to achieving the perfect texture. Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) ensures a hot environment that crisps up the edges while keeping the inside juicy, typically taking around 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken and check for a golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

If you prefer a bit of char for added flavor, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just monitor it closely, as broilers can burn food quickly. Alternatively, if you're using an air fryer, cook the chicken at a similar temperature for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for that even crispiness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp sriracha
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure everything is prepped and ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps for the perfect chicken bites!

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine honey, sriracha, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through, turning halfway.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce!

Enjoy your delicious Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add more sriracha or some chopped fresh chilies to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites are fantastic as a stand-alone dish, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them atop a bed of jasmine rice or alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chicken. They’re perfect for sharing, so consider serving them on a platter with toothpicks as an appetizer at your next gathering.

For a dip, I love a creamy ranch or cooling yogurt dip to mellow out the spice, or if you want more heat, a fiery sriracha mayo can take it up a notch. You can also offer a selection of sauces to cater to varying tastes; a sweet teriyaki, a tangy ponzu, or even a classic barbecue sauce would complement these bites nicely.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep them as juicy as possible, avoid stacking the pieces directly on top of one another; instead, lay them out on a plate in a single layer. If you're curious about freezing, these chicken bites can be frozen before or after cooking; just ensure they’re completely cool before sealing them in freezer bags.

When reheating, I recommend the oven to maintain that crispy exterior. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken bites on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and just a tad crispy, making sure to check the internal temperature again for safety. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as this can lead to rubbery, overcooked chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat the pieces dry before marinating.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

→ What can I serve with these chicken bites?

They pair well with rice, a fresh salad, or as party appetizers with dips.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead and cook it just before serving.