There’s something irresistibly comforting about the sound of sizzling chicken and the scent of roasted Brussels sprouts filling the kitchen. When I decided to elevate our weeknight meals, I knew I had to play with flavors that made everyone at the table smile. That’s when my version of Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts came to life. This one-skillet wonder marries tender, juicy chicken thighs with perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts, all finished with a deliciously sticky, spicy glaze that transforms dinner from ordinary to extraordinary.
Perfect for busy evenings, this dish takes minimal time and effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re looking to impress family at the dinner table or just want a quick and easy meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So grab your skillet, and let’s embark on a flavor adventure that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next bite!
Why is Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This one-skillet recipe minimizes cleanup, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet hot honey and savory chicken creates an irresistible taste that your family will adore.
Crispy Goodness: Enjoy the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts alongside juicy, tender chicken thighs for a satisfying texture contrast.
Versatile: Easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences, ensuring this meal pleases everyone at the table.
Time-Saving: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can serve a wholesome dinner in no time, freeing up your evening for more family fun!
This is a dish you’ll want to make again and again, so check out our other easy weeknight dinner ideas you can whip up quickly!
Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs (Bone-in, Skin-on) – Offers a rich, juicy flavor and crispy skin; you can swap for boneless breasts, but adjust cooking time.
• Hot Honey – Adds a delightful blend of sweetness and spice; regular honey can be used with crushed red pepper flakes if needed.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the savory flavor of the chicken; sprinkle less on Brussels sprouts if preferred.
For the Vegetables
• Brussels Sprouts – Provides a nutritious and delicious crunch; slice them in half for even cooking.
• Neutral Oil – Ideal for cooking without overpowering flavors; consider substituting with olive oil or avocado oil.
• Scallions – Adds a mild onion flavor for garnish; green onions can also work well in this dish.
For the Glaze
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance out the sweetness of the hot honey; no substitutions are noted.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Elevates the heat level; feel free to adjust the amount according to your family’s spice tolerance.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating a satisfying Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts dish that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts
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Prep Ingredients: Start by prepping your veggies—trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, slice the scallions, and measure out the salt, oil, and spices. This makes cooking a breeze!
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Cook Chicken: In a cold, oiled skillet, arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down. Heat over medium for about 10 minutes, allowing the skin to render and become golden brown.
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Brown Chicken: Flip the chicken thighs and brown the other side lightly, then carefully remove from the pan. This step ensures a beautifully crisp and flavorful outer layer.
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Sauté Brussels Sprouts: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the same hot pan. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are brightly colored and tender.
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Glaze Chicken: Return the chicken thighs to the pan, drizzle with hot honey glaze, and transfer everything to an oven preheated to 400°F. Bake for another 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly.
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Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with scallions—serve your delightful Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts immediately for optimal flavor and texture.
Optional: Pair with a fresh green salad or fluffy rice for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with these delightful adaptations!
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Boneless Chicken: Use boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just be mindful to check the internal temperature sooner.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra layer of heat. It’s a sensational twist for spice lovers!
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Honey Alternative: If you prefer, swap hot honey for maple syrup mixed with Sriracha for a unique flavor profile. The sweet and spicy combination is irresistibly delicious!
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Add Veggies: Toss in other hearty vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes alongside the Brussels sprouts for a colorful, nutritious addition. More veggies mean more crunch!
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Herbed Delight: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the oil before sautéing the chicken for beautiful aromatic notes. It’s a simple upgrade that brings freshness to each bite.
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Citrusy Glaze: Mix in a splash of orange juice or zest to the honey glaze for a refreshing citrus aroma. It brightens the dish and balances the heat wonderfully.
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Seasoned Crust: Coat the chicken thighs in a blend of your favorite spices before cooking for an enhanced flavor profile. Think paprika, garlic powder, or even a dash of cumin!
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Keto-Friendly: Substitute honey with a sugar-free sweetener if you’re keeping it low-carb, without sacrificing that sweet flavor. It’s a great way to keep it friendly for keto diets while still enjoying!
These variations invite you to enjoy the deliciousness of Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts in new and exciting ways!
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can halve and store the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance to save time on busy evenings. Additionally, you can pre-measure all your seasonings and make the hot honey glaze, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it’s time to cook, simply follow the recipe instructions, starting with cooking the chicken in a cold skillet, then sautéing the prepped Brussels sprouts, and finally glazing and baking the chicken. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with ease, allowing you to savor your time spent with family at dinner!
How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag; they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the chicken stays crisp.
Packaging: When freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn on your Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts.
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts
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Crispy Skin Secret: Start with a cold pan: Cooking chicken thighs skin-side down in a cold, oiled skillet helps achieve that perfect crispiness without burning.
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Glaze Thickness: Thicken the hot honey sauce: Ensure your hot honey is thick before glazing the chicken; a thin sauce will just run off, leaving a less satisfying flavor.
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Brussels Sprouts Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pan: Allow enough space for Brussels sprouts while sautéing to ensure they brown nicely and achieve the right tenderness.
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Adjusting Spice: Control the heat: Modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to tailor the spiciness of the dish to your family’s preferences.
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Storing Leftovers: Enjoy fresh for best taste: While leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, enjoy the dish fresh as reheating will not restore the crispiness of the chicken.
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Make-Ahead Tips: Prep ingredients ahead: To save time during busy weeknights, you can prepare your veggies and measure out the spices in advance.
With these tips, your Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts will be a hit every time!
What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts?
Transform your dinner table with delightful sides that bring out the flavors of this inviting one-skillet meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery taste of creamy mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the spicy sweetness of the chicken, adding a comforting touch.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, garlicky bread gives you the perfect vehicle for soaking up any leftover hot honey glaze, enhancing every mouthful.
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Quinoa Salad: A bright, zesty quinoa salad with fresh veggies provides a light, nutritious contrast, balancing the dish’s richness while adding vibrant colors.
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Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: Whip up a mix of seasonal vegetables, tossed in olive oil and herbs, to complement the textures and flavors of the crispy Brussels sprouts.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the sticky glaze and enhances the overall meal experience.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc accentuates the sweetness of the hot honey while cutting through the richness of the chicken, making for a perfect pairing.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Satisfy your sweet tooth after dinner with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies. Their delectable richness rounds out the meal delightfully.
Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They provide a rich flavor and yield juicy meat, with crispy skin that complements the Brussels sprouts beautifully. If you prefer boneless chicken breasts, just remember to decrease the cooking time slightly to avoid dryness.
How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are properly cooked?
Very! You’ll know your Brussels sprouts are done when they turn bright green and have a tender yet slightly crispy texture. They should be browned on the outside as well; if they have dark spots all over, they might be overcooked!
Can I freeze Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts?
Absolutely! To freeze, first spread the cooked chicken and Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. This prevents them from sticking together. Once solid, transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers, where they will remain fresh for up to 3 months.
What are some tips for reheating leftover Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts?
Great question! For the best texture, thaw your leftovers in the refrigerator overnight. Then preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the dish for 15-20 minutes. This method helps maintain a crispy skin on the chicken, so you don’t lose that delightful crunch!
How do I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
The more the merrier! If you’d like a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or use regular honey instead of hot honey. Taste as you go to ensure you hit just the right balance for your family.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and for best results, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave to preserve texture. Enjoy them for a quick and satisfying meal that feels freshly made!
Savory Hot Honey Chicken & Brussels Sprouts in One Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by prepping your veggies—trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, slice the scallions, and measure out the salt, oil, and spices.
- In a cold, oiled skillet, arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down. Heat over medium for about 10 minutes.
- Flip the chicken thighs and brown the other side lightly, then remove from the pan.
- Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the same hot pan. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pan, drizzle with hot honey glaze, and transfer everything to an oven preheated to 400°F. Bake for another 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with scallions—serve immediately.