The Best Hot Honey Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for a meal that’s bold, flavorful, and perfect for prepping ahead, this hot honey chicken recipe is about to become your new go-to. With the perfect balance of sweet honey and spicy hot sauce, this dish delivers on both taste and convenience. Whether you’re planning your weekly meals or need a quick dinner that won’t disappoint, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, packed with protein, and great for meal prep.

The crispy, juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the sticky hot honey glaze, making it ideal for rice bowls, wraps, or simple veggie-packed plates. Plus, it’s totally customizable—mild or spicy, oven-baked or air-fried, breast or thigh—you’re in control of the heat and the style. Ready to level up your meal prep game? Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering dish step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

When it comes to meal prep, you want recipes that are not only delicious but also quick and convenient. This hot honey chicken recipe delivers on both fronts, making it the perfect choice for busy days and those seeking something bold and satisfying. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

🔥 Sweet and Spicy Flavor Combo

One of the standout features of this hot honey chicken is the perfect balance between the heat of the hot sauce and the sweetness of honey. The hot sauce gives it just the right amount of kick, while the honey adds a natural sweetness that complements the chicken beautifully. It’s a flavor combination that will keep you coming back for more, whether you’re a spice lover or just enjoy a touch of heat with your meals.

⏱ Quick and Easy to Make

Another reason you’ll fall in love with this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a fast dinner without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, you’ll appreciate how simple it is to throw together. Just a few ingredients, a little time, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

🍱 Perfect for Meal Prep

This hot honey chicken is ideal for meal prep. Once cooked, it stores wonderfully in the fridge and reheats beautifully, keeping its juicy texture and sweet-spicy flavor intact. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or rice, making it super versatile for your weekly meal planning. Prepare it in bulk and have lunch or dinner ready for the next few days with minimal effort

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this hot honey chicken recipe, you don’t need a long list of ingredients—just a few key items to create that perfect sweet-and-spicy flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

🍗 Chicken Options

The foundation of this dish is, of course, the chicken. You can choose between chicken breasts or chicken thighs, depending on your preferences. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster, giving you a slightly lighter meal, while chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, offering a richer, more tender texture. Both work great for this recipe, so it’s all about the texture and flavor you prefer. For the crispiest exterior, go for boneless, skinless cuts, whether breast or thigh.

🍯 Hot Honey Sauce

The key to this recipe’s mouthwatering flavor is the hot honey sauce. The sauce is a simple blend of honey for sweetness and hot sauce (think Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha) for that spicy kick. Add in a sprinkle of garlic powder and paprika to give the sauce depth and complexity. This glaze is the perfect sticky coating for your chicken, adding a nice shine and bold flavor. It’s the sweet-and-spicy combo that really makes this dish stand out.

🧂 Optional Spices and Add-in

While the core sauce is simple, you can customize it with a few additional ingredients to enhance the flavor. If you like things extra spicy, toss in a bit of cayenne pepper. For a touch of umami, a splash of soy sauce works wonders. If you want a bit of tang to balance the sweetness, a dash of vinegar (apple cider or white wine vinegar) can really elevate the glaze. These add-ins are optional, but they give you more control over the final flavor profile.

🛒 Where to Find Ingredients

Most of the ingredients for this hot honey chicken are pantry staples, so you likely have many of them on hand already. For the honey, opt for pure honey (preferably local or raw if you can find it) to get the best quality and taste. As for the hot sauce, there are many options—Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice for its balanced heat, but feel free to experiment with Sriracha, Tabasco, or any other favorite hot sauce. Just be sure to pick one with the flavor profile you enjoy most! You can find everything you need at your local grocery store or online.

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken for Meal Prep

Making hot honey chicken is easier than you might think! Whether you prefer to sear, bake, or air fry your chicken, this recipe is adaptable to your preferred cooking method. Here’s everything you need to know to get started:

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

To make this delicious hot honey chicken, follow these simple steps:

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or paprika. This will help build a savory base before the glaze.
2. Choose Your Cooking Method: You can cook your chicken in three ways:
   • Sear: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
   • Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
   • Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in the basket and cook for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crisp.
3. Cook Until Golden: No matter which method you choose, ensure your chicken is fully cooked, golden on the outside, and juicy on the inside.

🍯 Making the Hot Honey Glaze

Now for the magic—the hot honey glaze. Here’s how to get it just right:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a small saucepan, add honey, hot sauce, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir to combine.
2. Simmer: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy (about 3-5 minutes). You want it to be sticky, shiny, and perfectly balanced between sweet and spicy.
3. Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle the hot honey glaze over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. For an extra layer of flavor, return the chicken to the pan and cook for an additional minute to caramelize the glaze.

🔁 Meal Prep Tips

This recipe is ideal for meal prep—here’s how to keep your hot honey chicken fresh throughout the week:

1. Portioning: Once the chicken has cooled slightly, cut it into slices or keep it whole—depending on your meal prep preferences. Portion it into your meal prep containers.
2. Storing: Store the chicken in airtight containers to keep it fresh. If you’ve made sides, like rice or veggies, store those separately to maintain their texture.
3. Keep It Moist: To prevent the chicken from drying out, try adding a splash of broth or a small drizzle of extra honey before storing it.

❄️ Storing and Freezing Tips

Want to freeze your hot honey chicken? No problem! Here’s how to do it:

1. Refrigeration: Your hot honey chicken will last 3-4 days in the fridge. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container for the best freshness.
2. Freezing: If you’re planning to store it for longer, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It’ll stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer.
3. Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or use the microwave if you’re in a rush. For the crispiest result, reheat in a skillet for a couple of minutes, adding a small drizzle of honey to revive the glaze.

Best Ways to Serve Hot Honey Chicken

This hot honey chicken is not only delicious on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and meal options. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal, balanced bowl, or creative leftovers, here are some ideas to help you enjoy this flavorful dish throughout the week:

🥗 With Healthy Sides

The beauty of hot honey chicken lies in its versatility—it pairs wonderfully with a variety of healthy sides. Here are some options to elevate your meal:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Think sweet potatoes, broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of veggies, which complements the spicy-sweet chicken perfectly.
2. Quinoa or Brown Rice: Both quinoa and brown rice are excellent choices for a hearty base. They add fiber and nutrients to your meal while balancing out the heat of the chicken.
3. Salads: For a lighter option, serve the hot honey chicken on top of a fresh salad with greens, cucumber, and a tangy dressing. You can even add some nuts or seeds for crunch.

🍚 Meal Prep Bowl Combos

Meal prep bowls are a great way to mix flavors, textures, and nutrients in a single, easy-to-make meal. Here are some balanced bowl ideas you can try:

1. Chicken, Rice, and Veggies: Create a classic meal prep bowl with brown rice or quinoa as the base, topped with hot honey chicken, and roasted vegetables. Add some avocado slices for healthy fats and a squeeze of lime for freshness.
2. Mediterranean-Inspired Bowl: Combine the chicken with couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a dollop of hummus. This bowl brings a fresh, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the chicken.
3. Asian-Inspired Bowl: Pair the hot honey chicken with white rice, steamed broccoli, and edamame for a quick Asian-inspired bowl. Drizzle a little soy sauce or sesame dressing for an extra punch of flavor.

🥪 Creative Leftovers

Got leftovers? Don’t let that delicious hot honey chicken go to waste! Here are some creative ways to repurpose your chicken:

1. Wraps: Take some whole wheat wraps or tortillas and fill them with sliced hot honey chicken, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of ranch or a spicy mayo. Roll it up for a quick and satisfying lunch.
2. Sandwiches: Use the hot honey chicken as a filling for sandwiches or subs. Add a little cheese, some greens, and maybe even a bit of pickled red onion for a tangy bite.
3. Salads: Turn your leftover chicken into a hearty salad by slicing it up and tossing it on top of mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Add a vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs About Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Have some questions about making this hot honey chicken? We’ve got you covered! Here are answers to some of the most common questions:

❓ Can I Make This with Chicken Thighs Instead?

Absolutely! While this recipe is often made with chicken breasts for a leaner option, chicken thighs can be a fantastic choice too. Here’s the breakdown:

• Pros of Chicken Thighs: They’re juicier, more flavorful, and less prone to drying out during cooking. Thighs also have a slightly richer taste and a tender texture, making them a great option for those who enjoy more moist meat.
• Cons of Chicken Thighs: They have a bit more fat than chicken breasts, so if you’re looking for a leaner option or aiming to reduce fat intake, breasts might be the better choice.

Both options work perfectly for this recipe, so it comes down to your personal preference!

❓ Is This Hot Honey Chicken Healthy?

Yes, hot honey chicken can be a healthy meal when prepared properly! Here’s a breakdown of the macros and how to make it fit your dietary goals:

• Calories: The chicken itself is high in protein and, depending on the portion, can range between 200-300 calories per serving (without sides). The hot honey glaze adds a bit of sugar, but it’s still a reasonable treat when paired with healthy sides.
• Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, with about 25-30 grams of protein per serving depending on the cut you choose.
• Low-Carb Option: To keep things low-carb, pair it with non-starchy vegetables like roasted broccoli or cauliflower rice instead of grains.
• High-Protein Option: If you want to boost the protein, add some quinoa, chickpeas, or edamame to your sides.

The beauty of this recipe is that you can easily adjust it to your specific dietary needs!

❓ How Spicy Is It?

The heat level of the hot honey chicken depends on the hot sauce and how much you use in the glaze. Typically, the combination of hot sauce and honey provides a nice balance of sweet and spicy, but it’s mild-to-medium in terms of heat.

• If you like it milder, use a less spicy hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot and reduce the amount of sauce you use.
• For those who prefer extra heat, add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze. You can also try Sriracha or Tabasco for a more intense kick.

Adjust the amount of spice to suit your personal taste, and you’ll have the perfect level of heat every time!

❓ Can I Use Store-Bought Hot Honey?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought hot honey to save time. However, homemade hot honey allows you to have more control over the flavor and spice level. When making your own, you can adjust the amount of hot sauce and honey to suit your preferences, ensuring the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.

Store-bought hot honey is convenient, but for the freshest, most customizable flavor, we recommend making your own glaze at home. It’s super easy, and the results are always better!