Spicy Skillet Chicken

Here’s a fiery, flavor-packed Spicy Skillet Chicken recipe that’s ready in 30 minutes, with crispy skin, tender meat, and a bold, customizable heat level. Perfect for weeknights when you crave something punchy!

Spicy Skillet Chicken

(Serves 4 | Cook Time: 25 mins)

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for juiciness)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Spicy Sauce:

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

• 2 tbsp hot honey (or regular honey + ½ tsp chili flakes)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp sriracha (or gochujang for depth)

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 2 scallions, sliced (for garnish)

• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional, for extra fire)

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

   • Pat chicken dry, then rub with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.

2. Sear Until Crispy

   • Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high.

   • Place chicken skin-side down; cook 6-8 mins until golden and crispy. Flip, cook 5-6 mins more. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Spicy Sauce

   • In the same skillet, sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.

   • Add honey, soy sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Simmer 1-2 mins until slightly thickened.

4. Glaze & Finish

   • Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it.

   • Cook 2-3 mins to coat and caramelize. Garnish with scallions and red chili.

Serving Ideas

🔥 Over cilantro-lime rice or cauliflower rice (low-carb).
🔥 With a cooling side like cucumber salad or avocado.
🔥 Drizzle extra sauce and squeeze lime for brightness.

Heat Level Customization

🌶️ Mild – Skip cayenne, use 1 tsp sriracha.
🌶️🌶️ Medium – As written.
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Nuclear – Add 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes + extra sriracha.

Pro Tips

✅ Crispy skin secret: Don’t move the chicken while searing!
✅ No skillet? Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 mins, then broil 2 mins.
✅ Make ahead: Double the sauce and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Why You’ll Love It: Crispy, sticky, spicy-sweet, and all in one pan! Serve with extra napkins—it’s messy in the best way. 🔥