Honey BBQ Chicken Bites Flavorful and Easy Recipe

January 13, 2026October 21, 2025 by Chef Jamie

Are you ready to delight your taste buds with a simple yet flavorful dish? In this post, I’ll guide you through my easy Honey BBQ Chicken Bites recipe. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. From marinating to cooking, you’ll learn tips to elevate your cooking game. Let’s get started on this tasty adventure!

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Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and BBQ sauce creates a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that everyone will love.
Versatile Dish: These chicken bites can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a main course with sides.
Kid-Friendly: With their bite-sized pieces and sweet flavor, these chicken bites are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts

– 1/2 cup honey

– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

The main ingredients create a sweet and tangy flavor. The chicken breasts are the star of the dish. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best taste. Honey adds sweetness that balances the BBQ sauce’s smokiness. Use your favorite BBQ sauce; each brand has unique flavors. The soy sauce adds a savory depth.

Seasoning and Garnish

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Fresh parsley, chopped

These seasonings enhance the chicken’s flavor. Garlic powder brings a warm, rich taste. Onion powder adds sweetness and depth. Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky touch. Fresh parsley is a beautiful garnish that adds color and freshness. It also adds a hint of earthiness.

Cooking Essentials

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Salt and pepper

Olive oil helps cook the chicken evenly and adds richness. Use a good-quality oil for the best results. Salt and pepper are essential for flavor. Adjust to your taste. They bring out the natural flavors in the chicken and sauce.

These ingredients make Honey BBQ Chicken Bites a delicious and easy recipe. Enjoy the blend of flavors as you create this dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Marinade

To start, grab a large mixing bowl. Add the following ingredients:

– 1/2 cup honey

– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients well. You want to blend the sweet and savory flavors. This marinade gives the chicken a rich, tasty kick.

Marinating the Chicken

Next, cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken in the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. You can go up to 2 hours for even more flavor.

Cooking Methods

You have two great options to cook your chicken bites.

Searing in Skillet

First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them to get a nice brown color.

Baking in the Oven

After searing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the chicken from the skillet to the baking sheet, spreading them out. Bake for 15-20 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when done.

Once cooked, drizzle any leftover marinade over the bites. Toss them gently to coat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your Honey BBQ Chicken Bites!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Marination

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours works wonders. The longer marination allows the chicken to soak up the yummy honey BBQ mix. This marinade combines sweet and savory. It makes your chicken bites truly special.

Cooking Techniques

To get that perfect browning, use medium heat in your skillet. Let the chicken sear for about 3-4 minutes. Turn the pieces occasionally. This way, you create a nice crust. After browning, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Always check if the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation is key. Serve your chicken bites on a nice platter with toothpicks. This makes it easy for guests to grab them. Add a small bowl of extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. For a fresh crunch, include sliced cucumbers or carrots. They add color and balance to the dish.

Pro Tips

Marinate Longer for Flavor: For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken as it bakes; cooking times may vary based on your oven and the size of the chicken pieces.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion instead of powders can elevate the flavor of your marinade significantly.
Experiment with BBQ Sauce: Try different BBQ sauces to find your perfect flavor profile, whether sweet, spicy, or smoky.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily change the BBQ sauce for different flavors. Try a spicy BBQ for heat. A smoky sauce adds depth. Use a fruit-based sauce for a sweet twist. You can also swap honey with other sweeteners. Maple syrup gives a nice taste. Agave syrup works well, too.

Cooking Method Alternatives

Grilling is a great option if you want a smoky flavor. Just preheat your grill and cook the chicken bites until they are golden. Baking is simple and keeps your kitchen clean. You can also use a slow cooker. Just place the marinated chicken inside and set it on low. It will cook while you go about your day.

Dietary Adjustments

For gluten-free options, choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce and soy sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish. If you’re watching salt, use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also skip adding extra salt in the recipe. These small changes keep the flavor without the extra sodium.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store your Honey BBQ Chicken Bites, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh and safe. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. Ensure the chicken has cooled down before sealing the container. This helps avoid moisture build-up, which can make the chicken soggy.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze these bites, follow these steps: First, let the cooked chicken cool completely. Then, place the bites in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out excess air before sealing. You can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for best results. This method keeps the flavor and texture intact.

Ideal Leftover Usage

There are many fun ways to use leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Bites. You can chop them up for a BBQ chicken salad. They also work well in wraps or sandwiches. For a quick snack, serve them on toothpicks with a dip. Another great idea is to add them to a rice bowl with veggies. Get creative and enjoy your leftovers in different ways!

FAQs

How long do I need to marinate chicken for the best flavor?

You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you want a richer taste, let it sit for up to 2 hours. This gives the marinade time to soak into the chicken. The longer it sits, the more flavor it absorbs.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for best results. If you use frozen chicken, marinate it after it thaws. This helps the flavors mix well with the meat.

What sides pair well with Honey BBQ Chicken Bites?

Honey BBQ Chicken Bites go great with many sides. Here are some tasty options:

– Coleslaw

– Corn on the cob

– Sweet potato fries

– Fresh veggie sticks

– Rice or quinoa

These sides add crunch and balance the sweet flavors of the chicken.

Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even the night before. Just store the marinated chicken in the fridge until you are ready to cook. This way, dinner becomes quick and easy!

In this post, we covered how to make tasty Honey BBQ Chicken Bites. You learned about key ingredients, like chicken, honey, and BBQ sauce. We also discussed marinating techniques, cooking methods, and tips for perfect flavor. Don’t forget about variations for dietary needs or cooking style.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or friends, these bites can bring joy to any meal. Use the tips and tricks for best results. Enjoy your delicious creatio

$- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts - 1/2 cup honey - 1/2 cup BBQ sauce - 1 tablespoon soy sauce The main ingredients create a sweet and tangy flavor. The chicken breasts are the star of the dish. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best taste. Honey adds sweetness that balances the BBQ sauce's smokiness. Use your favorite BBQ sauce; each brand has unique flavors. The soy sauce adds a savory depth. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - Fresh parsley, chopped These seasonings enhance the chicken's flavor. Garlic powder brings a warm, rich taste. Onion powder adds sweetness and depth. Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky touch. Fresh parsley is a beautiful garnish that adds color and freshness. It also adds a hint of earthiness. - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper Olive oil helps cook the chicken evenly and adds richness. Use a good-quality oil for the best results. Salt and pepper are essential for flavor. Adjust to your taste. They bring out the natural flavors in the chicken and sauce. These ingredients make Honey BBQ Chicken Bites a delicious and easy recipe. Enjoy the blend of flavors as you create this dish! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, grab a large mixing bowl. Add the following ingredients: - 1/2 cup honey - 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand) - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste Mix these ingredients well. You want to blend the sweet and savory flavors. This marinade gives the chicken a rich, tasty kick. Next, cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken in the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. You can go up to 2 hours for even more flavor. You have two great options to cook your chicken bites. Searing in Skillet First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them to get a nice brown color. Baking in the Oven After searing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the chicken from the skillet to the baking sheet, spreading them out. Bake for 15-20 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when done. Once cooked, drizzle any leftover marinade over the bites. Toss them gently to coat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your Honey BBQ Chicken Bites! For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours works wonders. The longer marination allows the chicken to soak up the yummy honey BBQ mix. This marinade combines sweet and savory. It makes your chicken bites truly special. To get that perfect browning, use medium heat in your skillet. Let the chicken sear for about 3-4 minutes. Turn the pieces occasionally. This way, you create a nice crust. After browning, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Always check if the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. Presentation is key. Serve your chicken bites on a nice platter with toothpicks. This makes it easy for guests to grab them. Add a small bowl of extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. For a fresh crunch, include sliced cucumbers or carrots. They add color and balance to the dish. Pro Tips Marinate Longer for Flavor: For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken as it bakes; cooking times may vary based on your oven and the size of the chicken pieces. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion instead of powders can elevate the flavor of your marinade significantly. Experiment with BBQ Sauce: Try different BBQ sauces to find your perfect flavor profile, whether sweet, spicy, or smoky. {{image_2}} You can easily change the BBQ sauce for different flavors. Try a spicy BBQ for heat. A smoky sauce adds depth. Use a fruit-based sauce for a sweet twist. You can also swap honey with other sweeteners. Maple syrup gives a nice taste. Agave syrup works well, too. Grilling is a great option if you want a smoky flavor. Just preheat your grill and cook the chicken bites until they are golden. Baking is simple and keeps your kitchen clean. You can also use a slow cooker. Just place the marinated chicken inside and set it on low. It will cook while you go about your day. For gluten-free options, choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce and soy sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish. If you're watching salt, use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also skip adding extra salt in the recipe. These small changes keep the flavor without the extra sodium. To store your Honey BBQ Chicken Bites, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh and safe. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. Ensure the chicken has cooled down before sealing the container. This helps avoid moisture build-up, which can make the chicken soggy. To freeze these bites, follow these steps: First, let the cooked chicken cool completely. Then, place the bites in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out excess air before sealing. You can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for best results. This method keeps the flavor and texture intact. There are many fun ways to use leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Bites. You can chop them up for a BBQ chicken salad. They also work well in wraps or sandwiches. For a quick snack, serve them on toothpicks with a dip. Another great idea is to add them to a rice bowl with veggies. Get creative and enjoy your leftovers in different ways! You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you want a richer taste, let it sit for up to 2 hours. This gives the marinade time to soak into the chicken. The longer it sits, the more flavor it absorbs. Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for best results. If you use frozen chicken, marinate it after it thaws. This helps the flavors mix well with the meat. Honey BBQ Chicken Bites go great with many sides. Here are some tasty options: - Coleslaw - Corn on the cob - Sweet potato fries - Fresh veggie sticks - Rice or quinoa These sides add crunch and balance the sweet flavors of the chicken. Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even the night before. Just store the marinated chicken in the fridge until you are ready to cook. This way, dinner becomes quick and easy! In this post, we covered how to make tasty Honey BBQ Chicken Bites. You learned about key ingredients, like chicken, honey, and BBQ sauce. We also discussed marinating techniques, cooking methods, and tips for perfect flavor. Don’t forget about variations for dietary needs or cooking style. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or friends, these bites can bring joy to any meal. Use the tips and tricks for best results. Enjoy your delicious creation!$

Honey BBQ Chicken Bites

Delicious bite-sized chicken pieces marinated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
to taste salt and pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned, turning occasionally.
Transfer the partially cooked chicken to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, remove from the oven and drizzle any leftover marinade over the chicken bites. Toss gently for an even coat.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve the chicken bites on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating. Offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, and add some sliced cucumbers or carrots for a fresh crunch.

Keyword appetizer, BBQ, chicken, honey