There’s a certain charm in whipping up a dish that brings everyone together, and these Honey BBQ Chicken Bites do just that. The moment you pour that luscious sauce over perfectly golden chicken, the kitchen transforms into a realm of comforting warmth and irresistible aromas. Imagine the joy on your loved ones’ faces as they dive into these sweet and smoky bites.
I discovered this recipe on a particularly busy week when fast food seemed like the only option. But with just 30 minutes and a handful of pantry staples, I learned that homemade meals can be both quick and delightful. Not only are these bites packed with flavor, but they also offer an effortless way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress at a gathering.
Ready to take a break from the ordinary and dive into a plateful of deliciousness? Let’s bring the flavor straight to your kitchen with these easy-to-make Honey BBQ Chicken Bites!
Why love Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
Simplicity: These bites are a breeze to prepare, making mealtime stress-free.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and smoky sauce melds perfectly with the crispy chicken, creating an irresistible taste sensation.
Crowd Pleaser: With their bite-sized goodness, these chicken bites are perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings.
Versatile Dish: Serve them as a main course, appetizer, or toss them in a salad for a delightful twist.
Quick Prep: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Elevate your weeknight meals and bring smiles to the table with these tantalizing bites.
Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken breast – 500 g, cut into bite-sized pieces for tender, quick cooking.
- Cornstarch – 3 tablespoons, to create a crispy coating that holds onto flavors.
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon, adds a savory depth that brings everything together.
- Onion powder – 1 teaspoon, enhances the overall taste with a hint of sweetness.
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon, provides a subtle smokiness that complements the BBQ flavors.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon, essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Black pepper – 0.5 teaspoon, adds a touch of heat and complexity.
For the Cooking
- Neutral cooking oil – 2 tablespoons, such as canola or vegetable oil, for frying up the chicken to golden perfection.
For the Sauce
- Barbecue sauce – 120 ml, the star of the dish, bringing that classic sweet and tangy flavor.
- Honey – 60 ml, to add a delightful sweetness that balances the bold BBQ sauce.
- Tomato paste – 1 tablespoon, thickens the sauce and deepens its rich color and flavor.
- Water – 2 tablespoons, to help mix and smooth out your sauce for perfect consistency.
- Dried parsley – 1 teaspoon, used as a garnish for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
With these ingredients, you’re just a few simple steps away from enjoying delicious Honey BBQ Chicken Bites that the whole family will love!
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
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Combine: In a mixing bowl, add the chicken pieces, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss together until every piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
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Heat: Warm the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s hot and shimmering. This will ensure a perfect sear and crispy texture on the chicken.
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Cook: Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally. Look for a beautiful golden brown color and ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
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Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, tomato paste, and water until you achieve a smooth and shiny blend. This sauce will elevate the chicken’s flavor!
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Coat: Reduce the heat to low, pour the sauce over the chicken, and gently toss until all pieces are well-coated with that delicious mixture.
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Simmer: Let the chicken simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, making it even more appetizing.
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Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle dried parsley over the top before serving to add a lovely touch of color and freshness.
Optional: Serve with your favorite side for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are perfect for busy cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and flavorful. Additionally, feel free to mix the barbecue sauce, honey, tomato paste, and water ahead of time, which can also be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious bites, simply heat the oil, cook the chicken, and pour the sauce over—your homemade meal will taste just as delightful as if it were made fresh. Happy cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
Fridge: Store leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken bites for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also microwave them for quick heating, but this may affect their crispiness.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked chicken bites at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
What to Serve with Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing these irresistible chicken bites with sides that enhance their sweet and smoky flavors.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This dish adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the savory bites with its crisp, creamy texture. It’s a classic match for BBQ flavors that everyone loves!
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes provide a rich, velvety contrast, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the chicken. Comfort food at its finest!
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the sweetness and juiciness of corn complements the smoky BBQ notes beautifully, making it a seasonal favorite.
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Honey Roasted Carrots: These add a sweet touch and vibrant color to your plate while providing a delightful earthiness that pairs great with the chicken.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries add a fun and satisfying crunch alongside the tender chicken bites. A delicious way to satisfy your cravings!
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Green Salad: A mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, adding a healthy flair to your meal while lightening up the overall dish.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: Pair your dish with a glass of fizzy apple cider to add a fruity, refreshing twist. Its sweetness will beautifully complement the chicken bites!
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, treat your family with warm chocolate chip cookies. The gooey sweetness will be the perfect ending to your flavorful meal, keeping everyone smiling.
Expert Tips for Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
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Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cut the chicken into similar sizes to ensure even cooking, preventing some pieces from drying out while others remain undercooked.
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Crispier Coating: Allow the coated chicken to rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps the cornstarch adhere better and results in a crispier texture.
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Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce to your preference by adding water teaspoon by teaspoon. Too thick a mixture can burn quickly, while too thin may not cling well to the chicken.
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Cook in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. This allows each piece to crisp up beautifully without steaming.
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Flavor Variations: Experiment with different BBQ sauces or add hot sauce for a spicy kick in your Honey BBQ Chicken Bites! Customize it to suit your family’s taste.
Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delicious twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder for a gluten-free crispy coating that won’t sacrifice crunch.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a fiery twist that will tantalize your taste buds. Little heat with every bite!
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Honey Alternative: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique flavor profile that still brings the sweetness you crave.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for firm tofu, battered and fried until crispy for a plant-based alternative that still satisfies.
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BBQ Twist: Experiment with different flavored BBQ sauces, like mesquite or mustard-based, to give your chicken bites a fresh and zesty edge.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by mixing fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro into the sauce for a vibrant and aromatic experience.
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Extra Crunch: For a more textured bite, toss in some crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs before frying for that delightful crunchiness.
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Sweet & Tangy: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce for a tangy contrast that elevates the BBQ flavor even further.
With these variations, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy Honey BBQ Chicken Bites while keeping things exciting at your dinner table!
Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for boneless skinless breasts that are pink and moist, without any dark spots or unpleasant odors. Additionally, for the barbecue sauce, check that it’s from a reputable brand and has a good balance of sweetness and tanginess.
What is the best way to store leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
I recommend transferring your leftover chicken bites into an airtight container as soon as they’ve cooled. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep the lid on tight to maintain their delicious flavor and prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
Absolutely! To freeze them, first let your chicken bites cool completely. Then, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for a couple of hours until solid. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.
What should I do if my chicken is not cooking evenly?
Very! If you notice that your chicken bites are cooking unevenly, ensure that you are cutting them into uniform sizes to promote even cooking. Also, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cooking in batches allows every piece to fry nicely until golden brown, ensuring a crispy exterior while the inside remains juicy.
Are Honey BBQ Chicken Bites suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely! However, be cautious of potential allergens. If anyone has a soy, gluten, or honey allergy, read the labels on your BBQ sauce and honey carefully, or consider making your own homemade sauce to avoid any unwanted ingredients. For those with dietary restrictions, swapping honey for agave nectar may also work beautifully, though it will change the flavor slightly!
How should I reheat frozen Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?
To reheat, first allow the frozen chicken bites to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then warm them in a skillet over low heat, gently tossing until heated through and crispy again. For a quicker option, you can microwave them on medium power for about 1 to 2 minutes, but keep in mind this may reduce their crispy texture slightly. Enjoy your delicious bites once more!
Delicious Honey BBQ Chicken Bites for Easy Weeknight Wins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Toss until well-coated.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, tomato paste, and water until smooth.
- Reduce heat to low, pour the sauce over the chicken, and toss until well-coated.
- Let the chicken simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with dried parsley before serving.