Sweet & Smoky Glazed Chicken Bites

Sweet & Smoky Glazed Chicken Bites

Sweet & Smoky Glazed Chicken Bites are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken is caramelized in a sticky sauce that combines sweet and smoky flavors, making each bite a treat. Served over warm brown rice, it’s a meal that will satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it is quick and simple, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Second, the combination of flavors will impress your family and friends. Lastly, it’s a versatile meal that can be served for lunch, dinner, or even as appetizers at gatherings. You can enjoy these chicken bites on their own or over rice, as the recipe provides great options for serving.

How to Make Sweet & Smoky Glazed Chicken Bites

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• Fresh chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, rice vinegar, and smoked paprika.
4. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Stir to coat and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and caramelizes, coating the chicken evenly.
5. Serve the glazed chicken bites over a bed of warm brown rice.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions and serve immediately.

How to Serve Sweet & Smoky Glazed Chicken Bites

These chicken bites can be served in various ways. For a complete meal, serve them over brown rice, as directed. You can also use them as a filling for wraps, add them to salads, or serve them as appetizers with toothpicks. Pair with your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.

How to Store Sweet & Smoky Glazed Chicken Bites

To store leftover chicken bites, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Sweet & Smoky Glazed Chicken Bites

• For extra crispy chicken, you can pan-fry the chicken pieces without the sauce first, then add the sauce later.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your preference.
• You can also add vegetables, like bell peppers or broccoli, to the skillet for added flavor and nutrition.

Variation

You can easily customize this dish by using different proteins, such as shrimp or tofu, instead of chicken. You can also experiment with different sauces or spices to create your own version of this recipe.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken as long as you thaw it completely before cooking.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. Just cook them together when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, this recipe is relatively healthy as it uses lean chicken and brown rice, along with natural sweeteners like honey. You can also add more vegetables for added nutrients.