There’s something about chicken that makes it a weeknight hero. It’s versatile, easy to cook, and when marinated just right, it can steal the show at any dinner table. This sweet and spicy marinated chicken breast recipe is one of those go-to dishes I keep coming back to, especially when I want something simple but still loaded with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps, but it delivers mouthwatering results every single time.
The magic here lies in the marinade—a perfectly balanced blend of tangy Italian dressing, bold steak seasoning, rich BBQ sauce, and a punch of hot sauce for that spicy kick. This combination creates a deep, savory flavor that seeps right into the chicken, transforming it from basic to absolutely irresistible. And the best part? It’s a halal-friendly recipe that you can serve to just about anyone, whether you’re feeding your family on a casual Tuesday night or hosting a weekend gathering with friends.
What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. You can grill the chicken for those lovely charred edges, bake it for a more hands-off approach, or even pan-sear it if you’re short on time. No matter how you choose to cook it, the result is always the same: juicy, tender chicken that’s bursting with layers of flavor.
I first discovered this marinade when I was looking for a way to jazz up plain chicken breasts without relying on store-bought sauces full of preservatives. After a little experimenting, I landed on this combination—and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer in my kitchen. Now, it’s one of those recipes that my family requests again and again, and I’m always happy to oblige because it’s just that good.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and foolproof. With a few pantry staples and a little bit of marinating time, you’ll have a dish that’s worthy of a restaurant menu, all from the comfort of your own home.
Why You’ll Love This sweet and spicy chicken Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this sweet and spicy marinated chicken recipe, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my weekly meal rotation. To start, it’s incredibly easy to make. The marinade comes together in minutes, using ingredients you probably already have on hand. There’s no chopping, no blending, no complicated steps—just measure, mix, and pour.
Another reason this recipe shines is because it’s bursting with flavor. The Italian dressing brings a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the BBQ sauce, while the steak seasoning adds a deep umami flavor that makes the chicken taste like it’s been slow-cooked for hours. The hot sauce gives it just the right amount of heat, creating a bold flavor profile that’s exciting without being overwhelming. If you love dishes that walk the line between sweet, savory, and spicy, this one hits all the right notes.
It’s also incredibly family-friendly. Even picky eaters tend to go for this one, especially if you adjust the heat level to your preference. You can easily make a batch that’s more mild for the kids and spice things up for the adults. Plus, the chicken pairs well with so many different sides—rice, salad, roasted veggies, or even tucked into wraps and sandwiches.
In addition to being flavorful and easy, this recipe is also perfect for meal prepping. The chicken holds up beautifully in the fridge and even better in the freezer. That means you can make a double batch, enjoy it fresh, and save the rest for later in the week. It’s a smart, time-saving solution for busy days.
And finally, the flexibility in cooking methods is a huge bonus. You can grill it for a smoky, summery vibe, bake it for a fuss-free dinner, or pan-sear it if you’re short on time. No matter which method you choose, you’ll end up with juicy, well-seasoned chicken that can hold its own on any plate.
Health Benefits of this sweet and spicy chicken
While this dish is all about big flavor, it also comes with some surprising health benefits that make it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a balanced, nourishing meal. At the heart of this recipe are boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are naturally lean and packed with high-quality protein. Just one serving delivers around 20–30 grams of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune support, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Protein aside, the marinade ingredients contribute more than just taste. Italian dressing often includes herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients can help support your immune system, reduce inflammation, and add valuable micronutrients to your meal. While we often think of salad dressing as a topping, it can be a great way to infuse those benefits into a main dish like this.
The BBQ sauce, especially if you opt for a low-sugar or naturally sweetened version, provides a rich, smoky flavor with minimal added sugar. When paired with a moderate amount of hot sauce, which contains capsaicin (a compound found in chili peppers), this marinade can help give your metabolism a gentle boost. Capsaicin has also been linked to reduced appetite and improved fat burning, making this a delicious and potentially waistline-friendly meal.
Another point worth mentioning is the cooking method. Grilling or baking the chicken helps retain its natural moisture without the need for excess oil or frying. If you’re watching your fat intake or trying to stick to a lighter eating plan, this recipe gives you the satisfaction of bold flavor without going overboard on calories or unhealthy fats.
Additionally, you have full control over what goes into the marinade. By selecting halal-certified and lower-sodium ingredients, you can tailor this recipe to suit a range of dietary needs. Whether you’re following a heart-healthy diet, managing your sodium levels, or just trying to eat cleaner, this dish is adaptable and customizable.
Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor, and this sweet and spicy marinated chicken proves just that. It’s a nourishing, balanced dish that satisfies your taste buds and supports your wellness goals—all at once.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, let’s break down how much time you’ll need to make this recipe, how many people it serves, and what kind of nutrition you can expect from each serving. Knowing this upfront can help you plan your meals and manage your time in the kitchen more efficiently.
Preparation Time:
- Marinade Mixing: 5 minutes
- Marinating Time: Minimum 1 hour, up to overnight
- Cooking Time (Grilling or Baking): 20–25 minutes depending on method and thickness of chicken
Total Time Required: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes (including minimum marinating time)
Servings: This recipe yields 4 to 6 servings, depending on the size of the chicken breasts and portion sizes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugars: 4g (may vary depending on BBQ sauce used)
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 620mg
Of course, these numbers can vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients and brands you use. If you’re using a low-sodium marinade or sugar-free BBQ sauce, the calorie and sodium content can be reduced even further. This makes it a great option for those who are trying to stick to a macro-conscious or clean-eating plan.
Overall, this dish strikes a good balance between high protein, moderate fat, and low carbohydrates, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs—from muscle-building meal plans to lighter, low-carb eating styles.
Ingredients List of this sweet and spicy chicken
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this sweet and spicy marinated chicken breast recipe. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store, and together, they create a marinade that’s full of bold, layered flavor.
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup Italian dressing: This is the base of your marinade. It adds acidity, moisture, and flavor from herbs and spices. Go for a halal-certified version with minimal preservatives if you prefer a cleaner ingredient list.
- ¼ cup Dale’s Steak Seasoning (or substitute with an all-purpose marinade): Dale’s adds a deep umami flavor and saltiness that helps tenderize the chicken. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with a mix of low-sodium soy sauce and Worcestershire-style halal marinade.
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce: Use your favorite halal-certified BBQ sauce. Whether you prefer a smoky, tangy, or slightly sweet flavor, this ingredient adds a rich layer of depth to the marinade.
- ¼ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s Hot Sauce or a halal wing sauce): This brings the heat. Adjust to your spice preference—more for those who love a kick, less for milder palates.
For the Chicken:
- 4 to 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness): Pounding them helps ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy. Choose high-quality, halal-certified chicken for the best flavor and results.
Optional Ingredients for Serving:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for squeezing over the finished chicken
- Olive oil drizzle for extra richness
This short and sweet list comes together to create a marinade that’s bold, tangy, slightly sweet, and satisfyingly spicy. Best of all, it’s completely halal and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making this sweet and spicy marinated chicken from start to finish. This part is where everything comes together—so even if you’re not super confident in the kitchen, don’t worry. I’ll guide you every step of the way and offer helpful tips throughout to make sure your chicken turns out juicy, flavorful, and absolutely perfect.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
First things first, grab a medium-sized mixing bowl and a whisk. The marinade is what gives this dish its signature flavor, so take your time measuring each ingredient accurately for the best results.
- Add 1 cup of Italian dressing to the bowl. This forms the base of your marinade, giving it acidity, moisture, and a wonderful blend of herbs and spices.
- Pour in ¼ cup of Dale’s Steak Seasoning, or your preferred all-purpose marinade if you’re substituting. This brings a bold, savory depth that tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
- Add ¼ cup of your favorite halal-certified BBQ sauce. If you like it smoky, use a smoky-style BBQ sauce. If you want a little sweetness, go for a honey BBQ version.
- Stir in ¼ cup of hot sauce. Frank’s RedHot is a classic, but you can use a halal-certified wing sauce or hot sauce that suits your heat tolerance. Remember, you can always start with less and add more later if needed.
Whisk everything together until the ingredients are fully combined. You should end up with a rich, reddish-brown marinade that smells tangy, spicy, and mouthwateringly good.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Once your marinade is ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts that have been pounded to an even thickness—about ½ inch is ideal. Pounding the chicken helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable zip-top bag or a shallow dish with a lid.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. If using a zip-top bag, press out the extra air before sealing and gently massage the bag to help the marinade work its way into the meat.
- Place the chicken in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour. For best flavor, marinate for 4 hours or even overnight if time allows. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavor it will absorb.
Pro Tip: If you’re prepping ahead, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade. Just pop the whole bag into the freezer and thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. This is a great way to meal prep for the week ahead.
Step 3: Choose Your Cooking Method
This recipe works beautifully on the grill, in the oven, or even on the stovetop. Choose the method that works best for you depending on your equipment and the time you have.
Grilling Method
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Discard any leftover marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill and close the lid. Grill for 6 to 8 minutes on the first side.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 6 to 8 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices.
Grilling gives the chicken beautiful grill marks and a slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the bold marinade.
Baking Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. You can also place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow the heat to circulate evenly.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the baking sheet. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on thickness. Halfway through, you can flip the chicken to ensure even browning.
- The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Baking is a great option for busy weeknights—it’s hands-off and still results in juicy, flavorful chicken.
Stovetop Method
- Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F internally.
- Let rest before serving.
This method is perfect when you need dinner on the table quickly. It gives the chicken a beautiful sear and a deliciously caramelized crust from the marinade.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once your chicken has rested, slice it against the grain into thin strips or serve the breasts whole. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for a pop of freshness.
Now that your chicken is cooked and ready, let’s talk about all the delicious ways you can serve it.
How to Serve this sweet and spicy chicken
This sweet and spicy marinated chicken is incredibly versatile and works with so many sides, meals, and presentation styles. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it up, whether you’re keeping things casual or going for a more elevated plate.
- Classic Plate Dinner: Serve the chicken alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli and a scoop of herbed rice or fluffy mashed potatoes. The marinade pairs perfectly with both earthy and neutral sides.
- Over a Fresh Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or even a bit more Italian dressing for a flavorful, healthy lunch or dinner.
- In a Wrap or Pita: Thinly slice the chicken and wrap it in a warm pita or flatbread with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a creamy garlic sauce or tahini dressing. It’s perfect for lunch boxes or on-the-go meals.
- Chicken Bowl: Layer your chicken over a bowl of rice or couscous, add roasted chickpeas, chopped veggies, and drizzle with yogurt or tzatziki sauce. It’s like a Mediterranean bowl with a spicy twist.
- With Bread and Dips: Serve the chicken with soft naan or flatbread and an assortment of dips like hummus, baba ganoush, or spicy yogurt dip for a family-style dinner that’s perfect for sharing.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this chicken adapts beautifully to your table and your cravings. Let’s explore even more ideas with pairing suggestions next.
Pairing Suggestions for this sweet and spicy chicken
Pairing your main dish with the right sides and beverages can really elevate the entire meal experience. This sweet and spicy chicken has bold, zesty notes that can be complemented by both fresh and hearty sides, making it incredibly flexible for different types of meals.
Side Dish Pairings
- Fluffy Basmati or Jasmine Rice: A simple rice dish soaks up the flavorful juices and balances out the heat of the marinade.
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—these potatoes hold up well next to the juicy chicken.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness of grilled corn plays well with the tangy and spicy flavors of the chicken.
- Couscous or Quinoa Salad: Add chopped cucumber, red bell pepper, parsley, and a lemony dressing for a fresh and vibrant side.
- Steamed or Roasted Veggies: Think green beans, asparagus, or carrots tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Creamy Slaw: A light cabbage slaw with yogurt or vinegar dressing cools down the spice and adds a crunchy contrast.
Beverage Pairings
- Mint Lemonade: Refreshing and citrusy, mint lemonade cuts through the heat and adds a cooling element to the meal.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus Slices: Simple, clean, and hydrating—perfect for letting the chicken shine.
- Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened, tea with a splash of lemon is a great match.
- Cucumber and Lime Cooler: Infuse water with cucumber slices and lime for a spa-like beverage that refreshes with every sip.
Up next, let’s dive into how to store, freeze, and reheat this chicken so you can enjoy it later without losing any of that amazing flavor.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores. Whether you’ve made a big batch for meal prep, have leftovers from a dinner gathering, or just want to plan ahead for busy weekdays, this chicken holds up beautifully in the fridge and freezer. Proper storage ensures that every bite remains just as juicy and flavorful as the day you cooked it.
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover chicken, allow it to cool to room temperature before packaging. Placing hot chicken directly into containers can cause condensation, which leads to sogginess and potentially shortens shelf life.
- Refrigerator Storage: Place the cooled chicken breasts or sliced chicken in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Keep it Moist: To help retain moisture, you can drizzle a small amount of olive oil or leftover marinade (that hasn’t touched raw chicken) over the chicken before sealing it.
- Avoid Plastic Wrap Alone: Always use a container with a tight seal rather than just plastic wrap or foil, which doesn’t lock in moisture as effectively.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing this sweet and spicy chicken is a smart move, especially if you want to have a protein-rich option ready to go in a pinch. The marinade helps protect the texture and flavor, even after freezing.
- Freezing Cooked Chicken: Slice or leave whole, then place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date.
- Freezing Marinated (Uncooked) Chicken: If you’re prepping ahead, place the raw chicken in the marinade inside a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Lay it flat in the freezer for even freezing. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed.
You can freeze cooked or marinated uncooked chicken for up to 3 months. Beyond that, the quality starts to decline, especially the texture.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating is where you want to be a little careful—overheating can dry the chicken out. Fortunately, there are several ways to reheat it while maintaining its delicious moisture and flavor.
- Oven Reheating: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Cover with foil and heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Stovetop Reheating: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, add a small drizzle of oil, and reheat the chicken slices for 3 to 5 minutes, flipping once. You can add a little water and cover with a lid to steam it gently.
- Microwave Reheating: Place sliced chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring or flipping between each until warmed. Add a damp paper towel to help retain moisture.
Avoid reheating chicken more than once, and always check that it’s heated through thoroughly before serving. If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before reheating for even results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in this sweet and spicy chicken
Even the most straightforward recipes can go sideways with a few common missteps. To help you get the best results every time, here are the most frequent mistakes people make with this recipe—and how you can avoid them.
1. Not Pounding the Chicken to Even Thickness
Uneven chicken breasts result in uneven cooking. The thinner parts will dry out while the thicker parts are still undercooked. To fix this, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts to about ½ inch thick before marinating.
2. Skipping the Marinating Time
This marinade needs time to work its magic. A quick 30-minute soak isn’t enough for the flavors to fully penetrate the meat. Always aim for at least 1 hour, but 4 hours or overnight is ideal. If you’re really short on time, slice the chicken into thinner strips before marinating to help speed up absorption.
3. Using Too Much Marinade When Cooking
Once the chicken is marinated, discard the excess marinade. If you use it during cooking, especially baking or pan-frying, it can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, and the sugars in the BBQ sauce might burn. If you want extra sauce, make a fresh batch to drizzle over the cooked chicken.
4. Overcooking the Chicken
Chicken breast is lean and can easily become dry if overcooked. Always use a meat thermometer and pull the chicken off the heat once it hits 165°F. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing.
5. Not Letting the Chicken Rest
Cutting into the chicken too soon after cooking lets all the juices run out, which leads to dry meat. Give the chicken 5 minutes to rest before slicing to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Avoiding these small mistakes makes a big difference in texture, taste, and overall satisfaction.
Pro Tips of this sweet and spicy chicken
Want to take your chicken game to the next level? These tried-and-true tips will help you turn a good dish into a great one. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, these pro tips are here to make the cooking process easier and the results even better.
1. Use a Meat Thermometer
If you don’t already have one, invest in an instant-read meat thermometer. It’s the easiest way to avoid dry, overcooked chicken. The internal temperature should read 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken. Pull it from the heat right when it hits that mark—no guesswork needed.
2. Let the Marinade Sit Before Adding Chicken
Once you mix your marinade, let it sit for 10 minutes before pouring it over the chicken. This gives the flavors a little time to meld and intensify, especially with ingredients like BBQ sauce and hot sauce.
3. Cook Extra for the Week
Double the recipe and cook extra chicken to use in salads, sandwiches, wraps, or rice bowls throughout the week. This chicken holds up really well in the fridge and saves you so much time on busy days.
4. Broil for a Crispy Finish
If you’re baking the chicken and want that slightly charred look and flavor, pop it under the broiler for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it, though—sugars in the BBQ sauce can burn quickly.
5. Add Fresh Herbs Before Serving
While the marinade has tons of flavor, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or green onions adds a burst of freshness and makes your dish look extra appealing. It’s a small touch that adds a lot.
With these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish from everyday dinner to something that truly impresses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Even with simple recipes, questions always pop up—especially if it’s your first time making a dish. Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about this sweet and spicy marinated chicken recipe.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Is this recipe spicy?
The hot sauce does add a kick, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy—especially when balanced with the BBQ sauce and Italian dressing. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with just 1 to 2 tablespoons of hot sauce instead of ¼ cup. You can always increase the amount next time.
Can I use store-bought marinade instead of making my own?
Technically, yes—but the flavor won’t be quite the same. This homemade marinade is so simple and much more flavorful than most store-bought versions. If you’re in a rush and must use a pre-made marinade, look for one with a similar blend of tangy, sweet, and spicy elements.
How do I keep the chicken moist?
Marinating and not overcooking are key. Also, letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
Can I grill this chicken on an indoor grill or grill pan?
Yes! An indoor grill or grill pan works great for this recipe. Make sure it’s hot before adding the chicken, and cook for the same amount of time as you would on an outdoor grill—around 6 to 8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
How can I make this meal low-sodium?
To reduce sodium, use a low-sodium Italian dressing and skip Dale’s seasoning. Instead, create your own blend using low-sodium soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of vinegar.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Definitely. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. You can also cook the chicken, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?
The oven is best—cover the chicken with foil and add a bit of water or broth before reheating. Microwaving works too, just make sure to cover the chicken and reheat in short intervals.
Do I need to oil the grill before cooking?
Yes. Lightly oiling the grill grates or grill pan prevents the chicken from sticking and helps it develop those beautiful sear marks. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to grease the grates safely.
Can I use this marinade for other proteins?
You sure can! This marinade works well with turkey breast, tofu (for a vegetarian twist), or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time based on the protein you use.
Conclusion & Call to Action
And there you have it—a sweet and spicy marinated chicken recipe that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and totally customizable. It’s one of those dishes that becomes a staple in your kitchen because it checks all the boxes: simple ingredients, bold taste, and versatility for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling out on a warm evening, baking for a quick dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again.
I hope this recipe becomes as much of a favorite in your home as it is in mine. It’s satisfying, stress-free, and endlessly adaptable, which is exactly what weeknight dinners should be. And because it’s halal, it’s a great option for serving to family and friends without worrying about dietary restrictions.
Now it’s your turn—give it a try, and don’t forget to make it your own. Adjust the heat, swap in your favorite BBQ sauce, or experiment with fresh herbs on top. However you make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out. If you’re sharing your dish online, tag me so I can see your delicious creations. There’s nothing better than seeing this recipe come to life in other kitchens.
So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill—or the oven—and get ready for one seriously tasty meal. You’ve got this. Happy cooking!
PrintSweet and Spicy Chicken – Easy Halal Recipe for Grilling or Baking
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This juicy, bold, and flavor-packed halal marinated chicken is sweet, spicy, and savory all in one. Perfect for grilling, baking, or quick meal prep.
Ingredients
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1 cup Italian dressing
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¼ cup Dale’s Steak Seasoning (or all-purpose marinade)
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¼ cup BBQ sauce (halal-certified)
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¼ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s or halal wing sauce)
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4 to 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
Instructions
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In a bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, steak seasoning, BBQ sauce, and hot sauce.
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Add chicken breasts to a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken. Seal and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight.
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To grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for 6–8 minutes per side or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
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To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake chicken for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through.
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Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
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Adjust hot sauce for desired heat level.
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Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
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Chicken thighs can be substituted.
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Excellent for meal prep or freezer meals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling, Baking, Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: American, Halal