Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 lb) are the best choice for this recipe because they are juicy, tender, and absorb the glaze well. If you prefer chicken breasts, they work too, but thighs retain moisture better. Honey (¼ cup) provides the signature sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when heated, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze. Hot sauce (2 tbsp) adds the perfect amount of heat to balance the sweetness of the honey. You can adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like your dish. Garlic (2 cloves, minced) enhances the flavor with a deep, aromatic richness that blends perfectly with the honey and spice. Fresh minced garlic is best, but garlic powder can be used as an alternative.

Soy sauce (1 tbsp) brings umami depth and helps balance the sweetness, making the flavors more complex and well-rounded. Butter (2 tbsp) gives the glaze a velvety texture and helps it stick to the chicken while adding a rich, creamy finish. Salt and black pepper (to taste) are essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of the dish, and you can adjust them based on your personal preference. Olive oil (1 tbsp) is used for cooking the chicken, ensuring it gets a crispy, golden-brown sear before being coated in the sauce.

Each of these ingredients plays a key role in creating the perfect Spicy Honey Chicken, bringing together an irresistible balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite.