Ingredients
- Hot/Chili Sauce (½ cup): The star of the show! Whether you choose Frank’s Red Hot or Sriracha, this ingredient sets the stage for the dish’s signature heat. The choice of sauce can influence the flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your heat tolerance.
- Brown Sugar or Honey (½ cup): This adds a luscious sweetness that beautifully complements the spiciness. Brown sugar will give a deeper, molasses-like flavor, while honey adds a floral sweetness.
- Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon): This umami-packed ingredient enhances the overall flavor, adding depth to the sauce. Use gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon): The acidity brightens the dish and balances the richness of the sauce, making each bite refreshingly complex.
- Garlic (2 cloves, grated): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aromatic notes that elevate the flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes (pinch): For those who love an extra kick, these tiny flakes bring a burst of heat and visual appeal.
- Oil (1 tablespoon): Used for searing the chicken, oil prevents sticking and helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Boneless and Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 pound): Lean protein that soaks up all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Firecracker Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce, brown sugar (or honey), soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, grated garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has melted and the sauce is well combined. This fragrant blend should start to bubble and thicken slightly, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
- While the oil heats, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown. This step not only adds flavor but also seals in the juices, ensuring tender chicken.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- After browning the chicken, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, basting the chicken with the prepared sauce every 5 minutes. This frequent basting will infuse the chicken with moisture and flavor, creating a sticky glaze that you’ll love.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), remove it from the oven.
- Drizzle the remaining sauce over the chicken before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or quinoa, allowing the sauce to soak into your side dish and elevate the entire meal.
Notes
- Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. For instance, if you’re out of apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or lemon juice can work in a pinch. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey or brown sugar.
- Adjusting Heat Levels: Customize the spice level to your preference. If you enjoy milder flavors, reduce the amount of hot sauce or opt for a milder chili sauce. On the other hand, if you want an extra fiery kick, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Serving Suggestions: Baked Firecracker Chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. It’s also fantastic in a wrap with fresh vegetables or alongside a crisp green salad.
- Prep Time: 5 Minutes
- Cook Time: 25 Minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cook