Name: Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup hot sauce; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup honey; 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 4 chicken breast cutlets (thinly pounded); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 scallions (chopped finely)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 6 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances heat and sweetness with a creamy, smoky kick, the Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe will become your new go-to favorite. This recipe brings together tender chicken breast cutlets marinated in a luscious blend of hot sauce, honey, and smoky spices, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner, this Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe promises to satisfy your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl filled with thick, smooth orange sauce in the center. A whisk with a wooden handle is inside the bowl, partially covered with sauce. To the upper left, there is a white plate holding two plain pale raw chicken filets. To the upper right, there are two small white bowls, one with clear liquid and the other with minced garlic. There are fresh green onions placed diagonally from the top right corner toward the bowls. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a blue and white checkered cloth on the lower left edge. The lighting is bright and natural. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that work in harmony to create rich layers of flavor. Each element brings its own special touch to the dish, ensuring every bite is vibrant and delicious.

1/2 cup hot sauce: Adds the bold, spicy foundation that wakes up your palate with just the right amount of heat.
1 cup sour cream: Creates creaminess and balances the spice with a tangy smoothness.
1/2 cup ketchup: Introduces a subtle sweetness and tomato-rich depth to the sauce.
1/4 cup honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally and complements the spicy notes perfectly.
1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika: Brings a smoky, slightly sweet accent that gives the dish its signature warmth.
2 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds an earthy undertone and a hint of exotic spice.
4 chicken breast cutlets (thinly pounded): Ensures quick, even cooking and tender results every time.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for sautéing and giving the chicken a beautiful golden crust.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a savory punch.
Optional – 2 scallions (finely chopped): A fresh, crunchy garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Diablo Sauce

Start by grabbing a mixing bowl and whisking together the hot sauce, sour cream, ketchup, honey, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. This sauce is the heart and soul of the Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe—its creamy, spicy, and sweet layers will infuse every bite of chicken with intense flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pour half of the sauce over the thinly pounded chicken breasts in a shallow dish, reserving the rest of the mixture for later. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in the fridge, though if you have the time, letting it sit overnight will deepen the flavors and yield even juicier chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma, being careful not to let it burn. This quick step adds an irresistible savory note that complements the spicy sauce beautifully.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Reduce the heat to medium, then add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden brown crust and are fully cooked through. The marinade caramelizes slightly during cooking, adding delightful texture and flavor to the chicken.

Step 5: Warm the Remaining Sauce

While the chicken cooks, gently warm the remaining marinade in a small saucepan over low heat. This ensures the sauce serving alongside the chicken is hot and luscious, perfect for drizzling generously.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the chicken breasts and drizzle with the warmed sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped scallions on top if you’re using them—they add a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich, spicy, and sweet dish. Now, get ready to savor every bite of your homemade Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe.

How to Serve Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe

The image shows three cooked chicken pieces in a black cast iron pan. Each chicken piece is topped with a smooth, light orange sauce that covers the upper surface. On top of the sauce, there are small pieces of bright green onion scattered evenly. The chicken has a slightly browned look around the edges, visible beneath the sauce. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a dark blue cloth and gold fork nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped scallions adds a vibrant green hue and a mild onion freshness that cuts through the richness of the sauce, making each bite feel balanced and lively. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light scattering of crushed red pepper flakes can amp up the heat even more.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes, both of which soak up the delicious sauce perfectly. For a lighter option, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette to brighten the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken Diablo and use it as a filling in warm tortillas with avocado, lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream to create spicy and sweet chicken tacos. Alternatively, serve the chicken over a bed of quinoa or couscous tossed with fresh herbs for an elegant yet approachable presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate until reheating prevents the chicken from becoming soggy while preserving its flavors beautifully.

Freezing

This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken slowly on the stove over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, then stir in the warmed sauce just before serving. Avoid overheating to prevent the chicken from drying out and to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.

FAQs

Can I adjust the spiciness in the Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe?

Absolutely! One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of hot sauce or choose a milder variety. To ramp up the heat, add extra hot sauce or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option or just don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt makes a fantastic substitute that keeps the creaminess and tang intact. Just be sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt to avoid altering the sauce’s balance.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken breast cutlets?

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks quickly and evenly, which is especially important for this recipe. If you skip this step, the chicken may cook unevenly, leaving some parts undercooked and others dry.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative that adds extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a few more minutes to cook thoroughly compared to thin breast cutlets.

How long can I marinate the chicken for?

You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes if you’re short on time, but for the best results, marinate it overnight. The longer marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate deeply for a more intense taste experience.

Final Thoughts

The Spicy and Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe is a perfect harmony of heat, sweetness, and creamy indulgence that will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s approachable enough for a busy weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve for special occasions. So go on, give this recipe a try—you’re in for a deliciously fiery, flavorful treat that you’ll want to make again and again.