Looking for a simple dinner idea that doesn’t skimp on flavor? These Sweet & Spicy Glazed Chicken Thighs combine juicy, crispy chicken with a sticky, tangy glaze that hits the sweet-heat spot. It’s a one-pan recipe that starts on the stove and finishes in the oven, making it as easy as it is satisfying. The chipotle-infused sauce is bold and smoky, balanced by the sweetness of honey and brown sugar.
Ideal for family dinners, casual entertaining, or weekday meal prep, this dish delivers rich, layered flavor with minimal effort. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe shine.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is loaded with craveable contrast. It’s sweet, spicy, and smoky all at once, thanks to a glaze that clings beautifully to golden, crisped chicken. The method is straightforward, requiring just one skillet from sear to oven. It’s also customizable, so you can turn down the heat or swap the protein. Whether served whole or shredded into sandwiches or bowls, these chicken thighs bring the kind of flavor that keeps you coming back.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Chicken Thighs (6 pieces, bone-in and skin-on): This cut offers more moisture and flavor than breasts, and the skin crisps perfectly during searing.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used to sear the chicken and build that savory crust before glazing.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavor of the chicken.
Chipotle Salsa (7 ounces): Provides smoky heat and depth to the sauce. If using chipotles in adobo, blend for a smoother texture.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds natural sweetness and helps create that glossy, sticky finish.
Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): Enhances the sweetness and encourages caramelization as the chicken bakes.
Balsamic Vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brings a hint of tanginess and acidity to balance the sweetness.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 teaspoon): Contributes savory, umami-rich depth.
Prepared Mustard (1 teaspoon): Cuts through the sweetness with a sharp, tangy bite.
Liquid Smoke (1 teaspoon): Adds a barbecue-like smokiness without needing a grill.
Water (1/4 cup): Prevents the glaze from reducing too quickly in the oven and keeps the sauce fluid.
Want to dial back the spice? Start with half the salsa and adjust to taste after mixing.
How to Make Sweet & Spicy Glazed Chicken Thighs
This dish relies on a few simple steps that build flavor at each stage. You’ll begin by searing the chicken until golden and crisp, then whisk together the sauce ingredients in a bowl. The glaze is briefly warmed in the skillet to soak up flavor, then the chicken is coated and baked. As it cooks, the sauce thickens into a glaze that clings beautifully to each piece.
It’s a versatile process that works with different meats or even roasted vegetables, making this a solid base recipe for multiple meals.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 400°F so it’s ready once the chicken is glazed and back in the pan.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Warm olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, season with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes until the skin is golden and slightly crisp. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine chipotle salsa, honey, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, liquid smoke, and water. Whisk thoroughly until smooth.
Step 4: Heat and Glaze
Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir for about 2 minutes to warm and loosen any browned bits from the bottom. Coat each chicken piece in the sauce by turning it once skin-side down, then return it skin-side up in the skillet.
Step 5: Bake
Transfer the pan to the oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Midway through cooking, spoon sauce over each thigh to help the glaze stick and keep the chicken moist.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken sit for 10 minutes after removing from the oven. Spoon on more sauce before serving for added flavor and shine.
Helpful Tips
- If you’re unsure about the heat level, start with less chipotle salsa and taste before adding more.
- Boneless thighs or breasts can be used for quicker cooking, just reduce oven time and water in the glaze.
- Use a cast iron or oven-safe skillet to keep this a true one-pan dish.
- Basting during baking ensures a sticky, caramelized glaze that clings perfectly.
- Leftovers make excellent sandwiches, wraps, or salad toppers.
Flavor Details
Flavor: Sweet and spicy with bold smoky undertones
Texture: Crispy skin and tender, juicy interior with sticky sauce
Occasions: Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual get-togethers
Prep and Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 50 to 60 minutes
Notes
Swap honey with maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness. If chipotle salsa isn’t available, chipotles in adobo blended with a bit of vinegar and honey make a great stand-in. The glaze is also a great addition to pork chops or grilled shrimp.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 352 |
| Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Sodium | 496mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 18g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes chicken thighs sweet and spicy?
It’s the combination of natural sugars like honey and brown sugar with the heat from chipotle salsa that creates that classic sweet and spicy flavor.
Can sweet and spicy chicken thighs be baked instead of pan-fried?
Yes. In this recipe, the chicken is first pan-seared to add texture, then finished in the oven for a hands-off cooking process that enhances flavor and keeps the meat tender.
How do you get a sticky glaze on chicken thighs?
The sugars in the honey and brown sugar caramelize during baking. Basting the chicken while it cooks helps the glaze thicken and stick.
What sides pair best with sweet and spicy glazed chicken thighs?
These chicken thighs go great with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. They’re also perfect in tacos or sandwiches.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 4 days. To freeze, store cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or warm in the oven until hot.
Print
Sweet & Spicy Glazed Chicken Thighs | Easy Flavorful Dinner
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Crispy, juicy chicken thighs coated in a homemade sweet and spicy glaze featuring chipotle salsa, honey, and pantry staples. A one-skillet meal that’s full of bold flavor.
Ingredients
2 tbsp Olive Oil
6 Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
Salt and Pepper
7 oz Chipotle Salsa
2 tbsp Honey
2 tbsp Brown Sugar
1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 tsp Prepared Mustard
1 tsp Liquid Smoke
1/4 cup Water
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Sear chicken on both sides until golden, about 3–4 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. Whisk together chipotle salsa, honey, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, liquid smoke, and water.
6. Pour sauce into skillet and stir for 2 minutes.
7. Coat chicken in the sauce and return skin-side up to skillet.
8. Bake uncovered for 30–45 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
9. Baste with sauce halfway through cooking.
10. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Adjust chipotle salsa amount for milder or spicier flavor.
Swap honey for maple syrup if preferred.
Leftovers can be shredded for tacos or sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 352
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 496mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
Conclusion
These Sweet & Spicy Glazed Chicken Thighs offer everything you want in a satisfying meal: bold flavor, juicy texture, and an irresistible sticky glaze. They’re simple enough for a busy weeknight and flavorful enough to serve to guests. Whether you enjoy them whole, shredded into tacos, or layered on a salad, they’re sure to become a repeat favorite. Don’t forget to let them rest before serving for the juiciest result. Give them a try, and bring a little sweet-heat magic to your table.