Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for desired heat level)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
1 small onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional for extra flavor)
Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, chili flakes, minced garlic, and black pepper. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
Add the Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the prepared honey pepper sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Allow it to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce becomes glossy and clings to the chicken and vegetables.
Finish with Sesame Oil (Optional):
For added depth of flavor, drizzle a little sesame oil over the dish and stir to combine.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or with your favorite side dish.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings