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Baked Firecracker Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 87 reviews

This Baked Firecracker Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts coated in a spicy, sweet, and tangy homemade firecracker sauce. The chicken is first seared to lock in juices, then baked to perfection, making it a flavorful and easy weeknight meal perfect served with steamed rice.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Firecracker Sauce

  • ½ cup hot sauce (I used Franks Original Hot Sauce)
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • ¼-½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)

Chicken

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions

  1. Make the Firecracker Sauce: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the hot sauce, light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer. If making ahead, simmer for 8-10 minutes; if serving immediately, simmer for 12-15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
  2. Preheat Oven: Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 400ºF (204ºC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
  3. Season and Sear Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a skillet over high heat. When the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts for 1-2 minutes per side to brown the exterior without cooking through.
  4. Bake Chicken: Place the seared chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes.
  5. Baste and Continue Baking: Remove the chicken from the oven and baste each breast with 1-2 tablespoons of the firecracker sauce. Reserve remaining sauce. Return chicken to the oven and bake for another 11-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, firm to the touch, or reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
  6. Serve: Serve the baked firecracker chicken with the leftover sauce and steamed rice or your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Using boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts can add juiciness and flavor.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to control heat level according to preference.
  • Sealing the chicken with a quick sear helps lock in moisture during baking.
  • Serve with steamed rice or vegetables to balance the spicy, sweet sauce.
  • Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to 1 week and used as a dip or glaze.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/baked-firecracker-chicken-recipe/