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Spicy Sriracha Chicken Bites - Crispy, Zesty, and Easy to Make

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Cornstarch: For coating (about 1/3 cup)
  • Salt and black pepper: To season
  • Garlic powder: Optional, for the coating
  • Neutral oil: Such as canola, avocado, or peanut oil for pan-frying
  • Sriracha: 1/4 to 1/3 cup, depending on heat preference
  • Honey: 2–3 tablespoons for sweetness and gloss
  • Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon (or apple cider vinegar)
  • Lime juice: Juice of 1/2 lime (plus extra wedges for serving)
  • Fresh garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Ginger: 1 teaspoon freshly grated (optional but recommended)
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon to finish the sauce (optional, for a silky finish)
  • Sesame seeds: For garnish
  • Green onions: Thinly sliced, for garnish
  • Optional sides: Steamed rice, jasmine rice, noodle stir-fry, or crisp lettuce leaves

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder if using.
  2. Coat for crispiness: Toss the chicken in cornstarch until evenly coated. Shake off excess so the pieces aren’t dusty.
  3. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Taste and adjust—add honey for sweetness or more Sriracha for heat.
  4. Heat the pan: Add a generous layer of oil to a large skillet and heat over medium-high. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
  5. Cook the chicken: Add chicken in a single layer without crowding. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Work in batches if needed. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
  6. Remove excess oil: Carefully pour off most of the oil, leaving about 1 teaspoon in the pan. Wipe out any burnt bits if necessary.
  7. Glaze the chicken: Return the pan to medium heat. Pour in the sauce and let it bubble for 30–60 seconds until slightly thickened. Stir in the butter if using. Add the chicken back and toss to coat until glossy.
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with lime wedges. Pair with rice, noodles, or lettuce cups.