Crispy, sticky, and bursting with flavor, this Spicy & Sweet Chicken Diablo recipe is a weeknight winner. The tender chicken is enveloped in a vibrant sauce that perfectly balances the sweetness of honey with the fiery kick of chili garlic sauce. The secret? A touch of cornstarch creates a glossy, clinging sauce that coats every inch of the chicken, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite. This dish works so well because the combination of sweet, spicy, and savory elements creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.

This Spicy & Sweet Chicken Diablo Dinner is ideal for busy weeknights when you crave a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also impressive enough to serve to guests.

Why you’ll love this Spicy & Sweet Chicken Diablo Dinner with Chicken Diablo Recipe

Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The sweet and spicy flavor combination is incredibly addictive and satisfying.
It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even noodles.
Requires minimal ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.
This chicken diablo recipe is easily customizable to your preferred level of spice.
It’s a healthier alternative to takeout, allowing you to control the ingredients and sodium content.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Spicy & Sweet Chicken Diablo Dinner

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Chicken diablo recipe makes every moment feel comforting. Substitutions: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to your liking for more or less spice.

How to make Spicy & Sweet Chicken Diablo Dinner

Step 1: Prepare the oven and baking dish.

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 2: Make the sauce.

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and pepper.

Step 3: Thicken the sauce.

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Add to the sauce mixture and whisk to combine. This helps thicken the sauce during baking, giving it that glossy finish.

Step 4: Bake the chicken.

Place chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Chef’s Tip: For best results, ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce to prevent any dry spots.

Step 5: Cook until done.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Garnish and serve.

Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot with rice or quinoa.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. This ensures even cooking and allows the sauce to caramelize properly.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Overcooked chicken will be dry.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before baking.
If the sauce becomes too thick during baking, add a tablespoon of water to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Spicy & Sweet Chicken Diablo Dinner over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce. Steamed broccoli, Parmesan crusted chicken, or a simple side salad are great accompaniments. For a refreshing drink, try iced tea or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until heated through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this chicken diablo recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is this dish very spicy?

The level of spice can be adjusted to your preference. Start with 1 tablespoon of chili garlic sauce and add more to taste. You can also use a milder chili sauce if you prefer.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute. They may require a slightly longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C).

This Spicy & Sweet Chicken Diablo recipe is a flavorful and easy way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of sweet honey and spicy chili garlic sauce creates a truly unforgettable taste experience. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

Chicken Diablo Recipe Amazing Spicy & Sweet Chicken Diablo Dinner You Need To Try