Chef Mitchell preparing Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

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

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe during a family gathering where I wanted to impress my relatives with something unique. After several attempts to perfect the glaze, I finally settled on this sweet and savory combination that everyone loves. It has become a staple at all my gatherings, receiving rave reviews every time. Each bite offers a burst of flavor, making it a must-try for anyone."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I have a passion for creating appetizers that bring people together. I believe that good food is essential for good company, and I love experimenting with flavors to create memorable dishes. My expertise lies in crafting delicious recipes that are simple yet impressive.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites served on a plate

Why This Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The sweet glaze enhances the natural juices of the chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience. Additionally, the use of simple ingredients makes it easily accessible for home cooks. Perfect for gatherings, these bites are both delightful and satisfying.

The technique of marinating the chicken in the glaze ensures that each piece is packed with flavor. Baking instead of frying keeps the bites healthier while still achieving a crispy exterior. The addition of sesame seeds and green onions not only garnishes the dish but also adds a delightful crunch and freshness.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply. Additionally, if you're looking for extra crispiness, broil the bites for the last few minutes of cooking. Always check the chicken's internal temperature to ensure it's safe to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and glaze ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This will enhance the flavors and save you time during your gathering. Just remember to bake it fresh before serving for the best texture.

If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses to mimic its flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar or honey can also work as sweeteners, although they will slightly alter the flavor profile of the glaze. Adjust the quantity to taste as needed.

The chicken bites are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should also be golden brown on the outside and not pink in the center. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they are cooked through.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken bites. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

These chicken bites pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or a tangy dipping sauce. For a complete meal, add some rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious glaze. They also make a great addition to a platter of appetizers.

Cooked Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and glaze ahead of time, allowing the chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor. Bake them fresh when you're ready to serve, or cook them in advance and reheat. Just be cautious with the reheating to retain their crispy texture.

To reheat Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites, place them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the chicken bites come out dry, it may be due to overcooking.

Solution: To avoid this, monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Consider marinating for longer to add moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken bites are not crispy, they might not have been baked at a high enough temperature.

Solution: Ensure your oven is fully preheated and bake at a high temperature. Broiling for a few minutes at the end can also enhance crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken bites can become tough and chewy.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, always use a timer and check the internal temperature at the recommended cooking time. Adjust the baking time as needed based on the size of the chicken pieces.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the chicken bites is undercooked, they pose a food safety risk.

Recovery: Return undercooked bites to the oven immediately to finish cooking. Ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the bites are too close to the heating element.

Prevention: Place the baking sheet in the middle of the oven and adjust the cooking time. Covering with foil during cooking can prevent burning while allowing the inside to cook through.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bites are too sweet, balance with a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of salt.

Too Salty: To fix overly salty bites, add a touch of sugar or serve with a neutral dipping sauce.

Bland: For bland flavor, enhance with additional spices or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Fresh ingredients for Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

Essential Ingredients for Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

The essential ingredients for this recipe include chicken, butter, and a mix of sweeteners and spices. The chicken is the star of the dish, providing a hearty base that pairs wonderfully with the sweet glaze. Fresh garlic and ginger add a delightful zing, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Quality ingredients are key to achieving the best taste. Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality butter and honey for a rich flavor. Using fresh garlic and ginger instead of powdered versions will make a noticeable difference in the final dish. Freshly sliced green onions as garnish not only adds color but also a fresh crunch.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for the tenderest bites. Thighs tend to stay juicier during cooking compared to breasts. Make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
  • Butter: Using room-temperature butter helps create a smooth glaze that coats the chicken evenly. This also aids in achieving that desirable richness in flavor. For a healthier option, you can substitute with olive oil, but the flavor will change slightly.
  • Honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness to the glaze. It's important to use pure honey, as processed varieties may contain additives that can alter the flavor. If you prefer a vegan alternative, maple syrup can be an excellent substitute.
Cooking process for Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites is simple and straightforward. It begins with preparing the glaze and marinating the chicken, which infuses it with flavor. After marination, the chicken is baked until cooked through and golden, making it perfect for serving as an appetizer.

To achieve perfect results, ensure that the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the glaze. The key is to bake them at a high temperature, which allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Monitoring the cooking time is essential to prevent overcooking.

Key Technique for Perfect Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

The most important technique in this recipe is the marination process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the glaze not only deepens the flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Additionally, baking rather than frying keeps the bites lighter and allows the flavors to shine through.

Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
    Packed
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium preferred
  • 1/4 cup honey
    Pure honey
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tsp ginger
    Grated
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    Freshly ground

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
    For garnish
  • 2 green onions
    Sliced
  • Salt
    To taste
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
    For thickening
  • 2 tbsp water
    For slurry
  • Fresh parsley
    For garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

  2. Make the Glaze

    In a mixing bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

  3. Coat the Chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the glaze and mix well to ensure all pieces are coated.

  4. Marinate

    Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.

  5. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  6. Arrange Chicken

    Place the marinated chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  7. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden.

  8. Make Cornstarch Slurry

    Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry.

  9. Thicken Glaze

    In the last 5 minutes of baking, drizzle the slurry over the chicken to thicken the glaze.

  10. Garnish and Serve

    Remove from oven, garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, then serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are cooled completely before sealing the container to maintain freshness. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites warm as an appetizer or main dish. They pair well with a side of rice or a fresh salad. Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor, such as spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce.

Recipe Variations

For a different flavor twist, try adding pineapple chunks to the glaze for a tropical touch. You can also experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, to adjust the heat level. For a healthier option, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.