cinnamon chicken recipe
The Best cinnamon chicken recipe
Oh, cinnamon chicken is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds—simple, comforting, and just a little bit special. I discovered it years ago when my kids were still growing up, and it became a go-to for quick meals that tasted like home. There’s something about that sweet, spicy kick that makes it feel festive, whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. My family loves it because it’s easy to make ahead, so I can prep it on Sunday and have it ready for school lunches or quick dinners during the week. Plus, it’s got that perfect balance of flavors—savory, tangy, and just a hint of warmth from the cinnamon—that makes it feel indulgent without being heavy.
I also love that it’s a healthier twist on classic fried chicken. Instead of deep-frying, we bake or air-fry the chicken to keep it lighter, and the spices add natural sweetness without needing extra sugar. My kids have been surprised to see how much they enjoy it when we make it this way—it’s still comforting, but it feels fresh and nutritious. And honestly, it’s one of those recipes that’s just as good the next day, so it’s great for meal prep. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, cinnamon chicken always brings a smile to everyone’s faces.
Cinnamon Chicken with Honey-Glazed Dough
A delightful baked chicken dish with a sweet and spiced cinnamon dough, paired with a tangy tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal!
🥘Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2 In a bowl, mix flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Stir in warm milk and melted butter to form a dough. Set aside.
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3 In a separate bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, water, and grated ginger. Simmer for 2 minutes to thicken.
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4 Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 6 circles, slightly larger than your chicken breasts.
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5 Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place each breast on a dough circle, pressing gently to adhere. Brush the edges with honey-glaze mixture.
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6 Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes.
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7 In a glass baking dish, mix tomato sauce, chicken broth, tomato paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Pour into the baking dish.
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8 Return chicken to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
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9 Pour the tomato sauce over the chicken and bake for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula
- Glass baking dish (8×8 inches)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Cinnamon Chicken with Honey-Glazed Dough Works
This cinnamon chicken recipe is always a go-to for me because it’s simple enough to whip up on busy weeknights while still feeling special for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a dinner party with guests, the warm spices and tender chicken make it a crowd-pleaser that never fails to bring everyone together. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can serve it with rice, quinoa, or even just bread, and it always tastes even better the next day.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Chicken with Honey-Glazed Dough
What is the best way to prepare the chicken for marinating in cinnamon-scented sauce?
To get the best flavor and tenderness, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch chunks) and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures even marinating and prevents the sauce from clumping. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for a juicier result, or opt for chicken drumsticks if you prefer a slightly chewier texture.
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How long should I marinate the chicken in the cinnamon chicken sauce?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 1–2 hours in the refrigerator. If possible, let it sit overnight for deeper flavor absorption. Avoid leaving it too long (over 24 hours) to prevent bacterial growth, especially if using raw chicken.
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Can I use store-bought marinade or sauce instead of making it from scratch?
Yes! You can substitute store-bought marinades or sauces, but choose ones with minimal added sugar and artificial ingredients. A simple mix of 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar + 1 tsp ground cinnamon + 1 tsp soy sauce + 1 tsp apple cider vinegar works well as a quick version. For extra authenticity, look for a sauce with cinnamon, ginger, or a touch of garlic in the ingredients.
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What’s the ideal cooking temperature and time for cinnamon chicken?
For stovetop cooking, heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C). For oven-baked cinnamon chicken, preheat to 375°F (190°C), spread the chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and fully cooked.
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How can I make this dish extra crispy on the outside while keeping it tender inside?
For extra crispiness, pat the chicken dry thoroughly before cooking and let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking. Use a high-heat pan or grill pan, and don’t overcrowd the skillet. For oven-baked versions, toss the chicken in cornstarch or almond flour before baking to create a crispy crust. Additionally, brushing with a little olive oil or melted butter before cooking helps achieve a golden, crunchy exterior.
