Hot Honey Chicken Bites Are the Ultimate Sweet & Spicy Combo
First off, let’s talk flavour. Hot Honey Chicken Bites hit every note: they’re savoury, spicy, sweet, a little sticky, and oh-so-satisfying. The secret lies in the glaze—made with golden Aussie honey 🍯, chilli powder for heat, and a splash of olive oil for richness. Tossed through tender, spiced chicken, it’s pure magic.
I use chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender, even after a turn in the air fryer. Plus, they soak up all that sticky hot honey like a dream. You could use breast if you prefer leaner meat, but I promise thighs give the best result here.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Hot Honey Chicken Bites
Want to make sure your Hot Honey Chicken Bites come out just right every time? Here are my tried-and-tested tips:
- Balance the heat – Adjust the chilli powder to suit your taste. If you’re spice-shy, start with ½ tsp. Want it fiery? Add a pinch of cayenne too.
- Use good-quality honey – Local Australian honey really makes a difference. The richer and more floral, the better the final glaze.
- Don’t skip the second air fry – That last 5 minutes in the air fryer is what gives the bites their irresistible golden, caramelised finish.
- Add the chicken juices – After the first cook, the tray will have flavour-packed juices. Don’t waste them—pour them into the glaze for an umami boost.
- Fresh is best – Crushed garlic and ginger from the jar work in a pinch, but if you’ve got time, fresh garlic and grated ginger take this dish next level.
Serving Suggestions: So Many Ways to Enjoy!
This is one of those recipes that fits into any meal. Here are a few of my fave ways to serve Hot Honey Chicken Bites:
Rice bowls – Build a bowl with jasmine rice, steamed greens, sliced avo and a handful of sesame seeds. Instant lunch winner!
Wraps – Stuff into a wrap with mixed lettuce, cucumber, and a swipe of Greek yoghurt or mayo for a fresh, spicy kick.
Nibbles platter – Serve with toothpicks at your next arvo drinks. Add a side of aioli or sour cream for dipping.
Salads – Toss with baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion and a drizzle of lemon juice for a light yet flavour-packed meal.
Pair with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or even a nice, cold ginger beer 🍻 if you’re keeping things casual.
Why These Hot Honey Chicken Bites Are a Meal Prep Game-Changer
One of my absolute favourite things about these Hot Honey Chicken Bites is how incredibly well they work for meal prep. Whether you’re trying to stay on top of your weekday lunches, or just want something quick to grab from the fridge, this recipe is your new MVP. 💪
I like to make a double batch on Sunday and build out a few different easy chicken meal prep combos. It keeps things exciting and saves me from the midweek “what’s for dinner?” panic. Plus, it reheats beautifully — especially in the air fryer where it crisps up like it’s fresh out of the oven. 🙌
Here’s how I use these sweet and spicy chicken bites in my weekly routine:
Meal Prep Bowl Ideas with Hot Honey Chicken Bites
Asian-inspired bowl: Serve your chicken over jasmine rice with sautéed greens, pickled carrots, and a drizzle of sesame oil.
Mediterranean-style bowl: Pair with couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and a dollop of tzatziki.
Low-carb option: Load your plate with roasted cauliflower, spinach, avo, and the chicken on top for a quick chicken dinner that’s light but filling.
The beauty of these juicy chicken thighs is how adaptable they are. They taste just as good hot as they do cold, making them perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or no-fuss dinners when you’re running low on time or energy. ⚡
And let’s not forget that sticky chicken glaze—it clings to everything in the best way. I’ve even used leftover chicken chopped into a wrap with some slaw and extra drizzle of hot honey. Yep, I said it.
Storage Options to Keep It Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store your Hot Honey Chicken Bites and enjoy them later:
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or a hot pan to crisp them back up.
Freezer – Freeze in a ziplock bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer at 180°C until warmed through.
Meal prep tip – Double the batch, freeze half before tossing in the glaze. That way, you’ve got marinated chicken ready to go – just defrost, cook and glaze.
Other Recipes to Try
If you loved these Hot Honey Chicken Bites, I’ve got more delicious, fuss-free recipes you’ll adore:
Chicken Curry with Drumsticks: The Ultimate One-Pan Wonder
Chicken Bacon and Leek Potato Pie – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Lemon and Garlic Chicken Bake That’s Creamy, Zesty, and Weeknight-Ready!
Chicken Fajita Pasta Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mash-Up
Pesto Chicken Bacon Loaded Potatoes: The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Food
Butter Chicken Pie = Dinner Magic! (Yes, Seriously)
Why You’ll Make Hot Honey Chicken Bites Again (And Again!)
Let’s face it: We all need those quick, reliable, flavour-packed recipes that make dinner exciting again. Hot Honey Chicken Bites tick every box:
Super fast
Full of flavour
Family-friendly
Meal prep and freezer friendly
Customisable for spice level and serving style
Whether you’re feeding a crew, packing lunchboxes, or just treating yourself to something tasty and easy, this recipe is a certified weeknight winner.
Let’s Make It Together!
When you whip up these Hot Honey Chicken Bites (and trust me, you will!), I want to see your creations! Snap a pic and tag me over on Insta @steph_cooks_stuff. 📸💛 I LOVE seeing your spins on my recipes and how you make them your own.
Final Thoughts on Hot Honey Chicken Bites
If you’re looking to add more high-impact, low-effort meals to your rotation, this recipe is the one. The combo of Aussie honey, spice, juicy chicken and crispy edges is next-level satisfying, and with how easy it is to pull together, there’s just no reason not to make it on repeat.
And don’t forget—Hot Honey Chicken Bites aren’t just for dinner. Try them as a meal prep hero, a party pleaser, or a lunchbox treat. However you serve them, they’re sure to become a new favourite.
Hot Honey Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sprinkle your chicken with garlic, ginger and cumin, then toss to coat.
- Air fry at 200°C for 12 minutes – or you can pan fry or oven bake if you like.
- Meanwhile, mix honey, chilli, olive oil and a generous pinch of salt in a bowl.
- Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in that sweet and spicy hot honey glaze (don’t forget to add the chicken juices from the air fryer tray – so much flavour!).
- Pop it back in the air fryer at 200°C for another 5 minutes until sticky and golden.
- Serve it your way – stuffed into a wrap with salad, on top of rice with veggies, or just grab a fork and dig in!
Nutrition
Video
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Just make sure not to overcook it—breast dries out faster than thigh. Slice a little thicker to keep the bites juicy.
Absolutely. Use a non-stick pan over medium heat, and cook until golden and cooked through. You might need a little extra oil to get that nice sear.
For sure. Halve the chilli powder or leave it out altogether. You can also serve the glaze on the side so everyone can add to taste.