Chef Mitchell preparing Glazed Honey Chicken Bake
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered this Glazed Honey Chicken Bake recipe while experimenting with flavors in my kitchen. After several attempts, I perfected the balance between sweet and savory, making it a family favorite. Every time I prepare this dish, it brings back memories of those early cooking days. It’s amazing how a simple recipe can evolve into something so cherished!"

I have been working in the culinary field for over a decade, specializing in American cuisine. My passion lies in creating delicious, accessible recipes that everyone can enjoy, especially for family dinners. I love sharing my knowledge and helping home cooks create memorable meals.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Glazed Honey Chicken Bake served on a plate

Why This Glazed Honey Chicken Bake Recipe Works

This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a delightful dish that is both flavorful and easy to prepare. The honey glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, resulting in a succulent chicken that has a wonderful texture. It's a versatile meal that can be paired with rice, vegetables, or even a fresh salad.

The technique of marinating the chicken in the glaze allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing the overall taste. Covering the dish while baking ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender, while the final uncovering step allows for the glaze to achieve that perfect sticky finish.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you have the time. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Additionally, using fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the taste of your dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the glaze ahead of time. Simply marinate the chicken in the glaze and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making it extra delicious when baked.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. For a lower sodium option, look for low-sodium soy sauce. Alternatively, a mixture of balsamic vinegar and water can be used for a different flavor profile.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also check if the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. The glaze should be bubbly and slightly caramelized.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it thoroughly before serving.

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it alongside a fresh vegetable medley or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.

Leftover Glazed Honey Chicken Bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it's in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the glaze ahead of time, store them separately, and combine them when you're ready to bake. This makes for an easy weeknight meal that requires minimal prep time on the day of cooking.

The best way to reheat Glazed Honey Chicken Bake is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This method helps to maintain the chicken's tenderness and the glaze's consistency. You can cover it with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

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Too Dry

Problem: If the chicken turns out dry, it may have been overcooked or baked without enough sauce.

Solution: To prevent this, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer and avoid cooking it longer than necessary. Adding more sauce before baking can also help retain moisture.

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Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Sometimes the glaze can make the chicken skin soggy instead of crispy.

Solution: For a crispier finish, bake the chicken uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes, or broil it for a couple of minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become tough and chewy.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, always use a meat thermometer and adhere to the recommended cooking times. If you accidentally overcook it, try adding a little broth or sauce to help moisten it.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the chicken is undercooked in the center, it poses a food safety risk.

Recovery: To remedy this, return the chicken to the oven and cook until it reaches the safe internal temperature. Always use a thermometer to check for doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior may occur if the oven temperature is too high or if the chicken is cooked too long.

Prevention: To prevent burning, ensure your oven is at the correct temperature and check the chicken periodically. Covering with foil during the initial cooking can help protect it.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it’s too salty, serve with a side of plain rice or potatoes to help dilute the saltiness.

Bland: To fix blandness, enhance the dish with more seasoning, fresh herbs, or a splash of soy sauce.

Fresh ingredients for Glazed Honey Chicken Bake

Essential Ingredients for Glazed Honey Chicken Bake

The key ingredients in this dish include chicken, honey, and soy sauce, which create a deliciously sticky glaze. Fresh garlic and ginger add depth of flavor, while black pepper and paprika give it a subtle kick. Each ingredient plays a vital role in making this dish memorable.

Using high-quality ingredients makes a significant difference in flavor. Opt for fresh chicken and pure honey for the best results. Organic soy sauce can also enhance the taste, providing a richer flavor profile.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces can add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. If you prefer, boneless chicken can also be used, but be mindful of cooking times to avoid dryness.
  • Honey: Choosing raw or local honey can enhance the flavor of the glaze, providing unique notes that elevate the dish. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
  • Soy Sauce: Select a high-quality soy sauce for the best flavor. For a gluten-free option, consider using tamari or coconut aminos, which offer similar umami notes.
Cooking process for Glazed Honey Chicken Bake

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Glazed Honey Chicken Bake is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor, then bake it to achieve that perfect glaze.

Ensuring the right cooking temperature and time is crucial for achieving tender chicken and a beautifully caramelized glaze. Following each step carefully will lead to a delightful and satisfying meal.

Key Technique for Perfect Glazed Honey Chicken Bake

The key to a perfectly glazed chicken lies in the marination process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the glaze not only enhances flavor but also ensures moisture retention during baking. This technique is vital in creating the dish's signature sticky glaze and tender meat.

Glazed Honey Chicken Bake

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup honey
    Pure honey preferred
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium recommended
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
    For acidity
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    Fresh garlic
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
    Fresh ginger preferred
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    Freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
    For extra flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    To thicken glaze
  • 1 tablespoon water
    For slurry
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
    For garnish
  • 2 green onions
    Chopped for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For greasing
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables
    Optional side

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather all the ingredients.

  2. Mix Sauce

    In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and paprika.

  3. Marinate Chicken

    Place chicken pieces in a baking dish and pour the sauce over them. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

  4. Bake Chicken

    Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

  5. Thicken Sauce

    In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Add this to the sauce and stir.

  6. Add Sauce

    Remove the foil and pour the thickened sauce over the chicken. Bake for another 15 minutes.

  7. Garnish

    Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

  8. Serve

    Serve the glazed chicken with rice or mixed vegetables.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken, ensuring it is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

Glazed Honey Chicken Bake pairs well with steamed broccoli, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread for a heartier meal.

Recipe Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables to the bake, such as bell peppers or carrots. For a spicier kick, include some red pepper flakes in the glaze. Additionally, substituting chicken with tofu or tempeh is a great option for a vegetarian version.