Chef Mitchell preparing Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe while experimenting with different chicken appetizers for a friend's party. The combination of sweet and savory flavors quickly became a favorite among my family and friends. Each time I make these bites, I’m reminded of the joy they bring to gatherings. After perfecting the glaze, I knew I had a winner!"

Chef Mitchell has over 10 years of experience in American cuisine, specializing in appetizers and finger foods. He has created more than 1000 recipes and has a passion for making food that brings people together. Culinary school trained, he blends traditional techniques with innovative flavors.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites served on a plate

Why This Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites Recipe Works

This recipe combines the rich flavors of butter, brown sugar, and soy sauce to create a deliciously sticky glaze. The chicken is juicy and tender, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The addition of breadcrumbs and sesame seeds gives these bites a satisfying crunch. Perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, they cater to all taste buds.

The technique of coating the chicken twice ensures optimal flavor and texture. Baking allows for even cooking while achieving a beautifully golden exterior. The glaze can be easily thickened to your preference, enhancing the overall taste experience. With these tips, you’ll achieve perfect results every time!

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use fresh ingredients and ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking. This allows for better absorption of flavors. Also, don’t skimp on the breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. Lastly, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it in the glaze a few hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to bake them just before serving.

If you need a soy sauce alternative, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lighter flavor. Both will provide a similar umami taste, making them suitable substitutes in this recipe.

The chicken bites are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Additionally, they should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can cut one open to check that the meat is no longer pink inside.

Yes, you can freeze cooked Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

These chicken bites pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or sweet chili sauce. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw for added crunch and freshness.

Leftover Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy them warm again.

Yes, you can prepare and coat the chicken bites in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until ready to bake. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor as they marinate in the glaze.

The best way to reheat Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites is in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain their crispy texture better than a microwave.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your chicken bites turn out too dry, it could be due to overcooking.

Solution: To prevent dryness, monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer. Marinade the chicken longer in the glaze for added moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the bites aren’t crispy, they may not have enough coating or the oven temperature may be too low.

Solution: Ensure the chicken is well-coated with breadcrumbs and bake at the right temperature. Broil for the last few minutes for extra crispiness if needed.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If your chicken is overcooked, it can become tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent this, use a timer and check the chicken’s internal temperature regularly. Aim for 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked but not overdone.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the chicken bites is undercooked, it can pose a food safety risk.

Recovery: If this occurs, return the chicken to the oven and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). Cut into a few pieces to check for doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the chicken bites have burnt exteriors, they may have been in the oven too long.

Prevention: Reduce cooking time or lower the oven temperature. Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bites are too sweet, add a dash of vinegar or lime juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the bites are too salty, serve with a side of unsalted yogurt or sour cream to offset the saltiness.

Bland: If the bites are bland, increase the seasoning or marinate longer in the sauce for a more robust flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

Essential Ingredients for Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

The key to delicious Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites lies in using high-quality ingredients. Fresh chicken ensures tenderness, while a rich glaze made from butter, brown sugar, and soy sauce adds depth of flavor. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance between sweet and savory.

Opt for natural, unprocessed ingredients whenever possible. Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor, while high-quality breadcrumbs provide the desired crunch. Investing in good ingredients pays off, making your appetizer stand out!

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Use chicken thighs or breasts for optimal juiciness. Thighs tend to retain moisture better during cooking, making them a great choice for this recipe. Always cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
  • Butter: Use unsalted butter to have better control over the saltiness of the dish. Room temperature butter blends well with other ingredients, creating a smooth glaze that clings to the chicken perfectly.
  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish from becoming overly salty. This allows the sweet flavors of the glaze to shine through, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Cooking process for Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites is straightforward and rewarding. Begin by prepping your chicken and creating a flavorful glaze. Each step builds upon the last, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The double coating technique adds texture, making it a dish that everyone will love.

To achieve perfect results, monitor your oven temperature closely and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Resting the chicken after baking locks in the juices, giving you the best-tasting bites. Follow these steps, and you’ll be the star of your next gathering!

Key Technique for Perfect Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

The key to achieving perfect Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites lies in the double coating technique. First, the chicken is coated in the glaze, allowing it to absorb flavor, then rolled in breadcrumbs for a crunchy exterior. Baking at the right temperature ensures a beautifully crisp finish while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
    Packed
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    Low-sodium recommended
  • 1/4 cup honey
    Pure honey
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup green onions
    Chopped
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
    Panko recommended
  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
    Optional
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
    Mixed with 1 tbsp water
  • Fresh cilantro
    For garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken

    Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

  2. Make the Glaze

    In a bowl, mix together the butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper.

  3. Coat the Chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the glaze and toss until well coated.

  4. Add Breadcrumbs

    In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes. Coat the glazed chicken in the breadcrumb mixture.

  5. Bake the Chicken

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

  6. Thicken the Glaze

    If desired, pour leftover glaze into a saucepan, add cornstarch mixture, and cook on medium heat until thickened.

  7. Serve

    Once the chicken is baked, drizzle with thickened glaze and garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro before serving.

  8. Enjoy

    Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Sweet Glazed Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, consider freezing them after cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken bites are best enjoyed warm and can be served with various dips. Try pairing them with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.

Recipe Variations

For a different flavor profile, try adding spices like smoked paprika or chili powder to the breadcrumb coating. You can also experiment with different types of sauces for a unique twist!