As summer rolls in, the call of outdoor grilling grows louder. Cookouts, family gatherings, and backyard barbecues become the highlight of warm days. One dish that always steals the show at these events is chicken. But we’re not talking about just any chicken. We’re diving into a delightful take with the Shake Shack Hot Honey Chicken recipe. When you put this dish on your table, everyone will rush over. Trust me; they won’t be able to resist.
Before we get our hands sticky with that sweet honey garlic goodness, let’s chat about what complements this dish.
A vibrant Italian pasta salad. Its refreshing taste balances the spicy sweetness of the chicken. You’ll also want to have some chilled beverages on hand. Sparkling lemonade or a light white wine can elevate your meal. And don’t forget about cornbread! The combination of flavors will have everyone praising your culinary skills.
Now, let’s jump into why this recipe is simply fantastic. It not only delivers on flavor, but it’s also easy to prepare. I love that it combines fresh ingredients with a unique twist. The inspiration behind this dish comes from the renowned Shake Shack, known for their creative takes on classic burgers and chicken. Hot honey has become a staple in many kitchens, infusing dishes with a sweet yet spicy kick.
I’ve whipped this up for parties, family dinners, and even a cozy night at home. Each time, it gets rave reviews! You might even find yourself fighting for the last piece, and believe me, that’s a good problem to have.
Ingredients for Shake Shack Hot Honey Chicken
First, let’s gather our supporting cast. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
- ½ tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons chopped scallions
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Honey Garlic Sauce
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
With everything in order, we can start the fun part.
How to Make Shake Shack Hot Honey Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cleaning the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures that they sear nicely. Next, cut them into tender-sized pieces, about two inches thick. Now, sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and grated ginger over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets its fair share of flavor.
Step 2: The Coating Mixture
In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and toasted sesame seeds. This mix creates a deliciously crispy coating once fried. Roll each piece of chicken in the flour mixture and set aside. Make sure they are well-coated; this is crucial for that satisfying crunch.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, carefully place the chicken pieces in the pan. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Using a meat thermometer, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for optimal safety and juiciness.
Step 4: Making the Hot Honey Sauce
In a separate saucepan, combine honey, low-sodium soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir over medium heat until it starts to bubble. If you enjoy a little spice, add red pepper flakes at this stage. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened. The aroma? Absolutely divine.
Step 5: Final Assembly
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle that luscious hot honey sauce over the chicken. It’s time for the scallions to shine. Scatter them on top as a colorful garnish—voilà! You have a dish ready to wow everyone at the table.
Recipe Notes
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are lean and cook quickly. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: These add a delightful crunch. Toast them briefly in a dry pan if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Honey: Choose a high-quality honey for the best flavor. Local honey can have unique tastes that enhance the dish.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Reduces the sodium content while still providing that umami flavor.
- Hoisin Sauce: This adds a sweet and tangy taste. If you’re out, try a mix of soy sauce and a little extra honey as a substitute.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust to your spice tolerance. A pinch goes a long way.
Recipe Variations
Let me tell you, the possibilities are endless! If you’d like a different twist on this recipe, here are a few variations:
- Spicy Hot Honey Chicken: Increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce for an extra kick.
- Buffalo Honey Chicken: Swap out the honey garlic sauce for buffalo sauce mixed with honey.
- Brain-Boosting Chicken: Add a sprinkle of chia seeds on top before serving.
- Veggie Delight: Toss different vegetables into the oil during the frying process for a stir-fry effect.
- Grilled Option: Skip the frying. Marinate the chicken in the honey sauce, then grill for beautifully charred flavor.
- Wrap It Up: Serve in flatbreads with fresh vegetables for a delightful wrap!
Shake Shack Hot Honey Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Equipment
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
- ½ tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons chopped scallions
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Start by cleaning the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures that they sear nicely. Next, cut them into tender-sized pieces, about two inches thick. Now, sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and grated ginger over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets its fair share of flavor.
- In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and toasted sesame seeds. This mix creates a deliciously crispy coating once fried. Roll each piece of chicken in the flour mixture and set aside. Make sure they are well-coated; this is crucial for that satisfying crunch.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, carefully place the chicken pieces in the pan. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Using a meat thermometer, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for optimal safety and juiciness.
- In a separate saucepan, combine honey, low-sodium soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir over medium heat until it starts to bubble. If you enjoy a little spice, add red pepper flakes at this stage. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened. The aroma? Absolutely divine.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle that luscious hot honey sauce over the chicken. It’s time for the scallions to shine. Scatter them on top as a colorful garnish—voilà! You have a dish ready to wow everyone at the table.
Notes
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are lean and cook quickly. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: These add a delightful crunch. Toast them briefly in a dry pan if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Honey: Choose a high-quality honey for the best flavor. Local honey can have unique tastes that enhance the dish.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Reduces the sodium content while still providing that umami flavor.
- Hoisin Sauce: This adds a sweet and tangy taste. If you’re out, try a mix of soy sauce and a little extra honey as a substitute.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust to your spice tolerance. A pinch goes a long way.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
After creating this mouth-watering Shake Shack Hot Honey Chicken recipe, you’ll find it quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen. The blend of flavors is unforgettable, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner for busy days. With its crunchy exterior and sweet yet spicy sauce, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike.
So, whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just craving something delicious, get ready to enjoy your culinary masterpiece. You’ve earned it. Celebrate with the people you love, share stories, and indulge in the sweetness of summer, one bite at a time.
Now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cookin’! Enjoy your culinary adventure.
