If you’re craving a sweet, spicy, and irresistibly crispy dish Applebees Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe is a must-try—and now you can make it right at home.
This copycat recipe brings together golden-fried chicken tenders coated in a sticky honey pepper glaze that’s perfectly balanced with sweetness and heat.
It’s one of those comfort meals that feels indulgent, yet surprisingly easy to recreate in your own kitchen.
I’ve spent time testing and tweaking this recipe to capture that same bold flavor and crispy texture that makes the original so addictive.
Making dinner for the family or looking to impress guests, this dish delivers every time. From the crispy coating to the glossy glaze, every bite hits that sweet-heat spot. Let’s dive into the full recipe, step by step.
Why You Will Choose Applebees Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe?
Applebees Honey Pepper Chicken recipe brings the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crispy right to your kitchen.
It’s a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients. Craving a family favorite or impressing guests, this dish delivers bold flavor, satisfying texture, and a memorable dining experience every time.
How To Make Applebees Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe?
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Main dish / entrée
Cuisine: American / Fusion (sweet & spicy glaze)
Yield: Serves 4 (approximately)
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or frying pan (deep‑sided is better)
- Medium saucepan (for sauce)
- Mixing bowls (at least 2 or 3)
- Whisk
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Wire rack or paper towels (for draining)
- Measuring cups & spoons
- (Optional) Baking sheet if you finish chicken in oven
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb (≈ 450 g) boneless, skinless chicken (tenders or cut strips)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup all‑purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Honey Pepper Sauce
- ¾ cup honey
- ⅓ cup low‑sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper (fresh cracked)
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- (Optional) 1 tsp unsalted butter (to finish & add gloss)
- (Optional) A cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tsp water), if needed to thicken
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat chicken dry with paper towels (moisture interferes with crisping).
Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Dredge each chicken piece: first flour (shake off excess), then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing gently so crumbs adhere.
Let them rest on a plate for ~5 minutes so the coating settles (this helps it stick).
2. Fry the Chicken
Heat about ½ inch (1.2 cm) of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Maintain ~350 °F (175 °C) if you have a thermometer.
Fry the chicken in batches (do not overcrowd) for 3–4 minutes per side (or until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165 °F / 75 °C).
Transfer cooked pieces to a wire rack (or paper towels) to drain excess oil.
3. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
In the medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine honey, soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, lemon juice (if using), black pepper, cayenne, paprika, and garlic powder.
Stir until the mixture begins to bubble.
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and get syrupy.
If it’s still too runny, whisk in the cornstarch slurry and simmer 1–2 more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
(Optional) Off the heat, stir in a small pat of butter to add gloss and smooth texture.
4. Combine and Serve
Place the fried chicken into a bowl or back in the skillet.
Pour the warm honey pepper sauce over and toss gently so each piece is coated evenly.
Let it sit for 1–2 minutes so the glaze “sets.”
Serve immediately.
Special Note
Applebees Honey Pepper Chicken recipe combines crispy breaded chicken tenders with a sweet and savory honey pepper glaze.
For best results, let the sauce simmer until thickened and use freshly breaded chicken for extra crunch.
Serve over cheesy mashed potatoes or with green beans to recreate the full Applebee’s experience at home. Enjoy warm!
Nutrition Facts For Applebees Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe
Because the original Applebee’s nutrition may vary (and the dish is rich), these are approximations based on copycat versions and restaurant data.
Calories: 400 kcal (this is for the chicken + sauce component, not including sides)
Protein: 25–30 g
Total Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 800 mg (depending on soy sauce, etc.)
Serving Suggestions
Applebees Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option.
Add a side of steamed broccoli or crisp green beans to balance the sweetness of the sauce. For a true restaurant-style experience, top the chicken with shredded cheese and serve with a drizzle of extra honey pepper glaze.
Expert Tips
1. Double-Coat the Chicken:
For extra crunch, dip the chicken in flour, egg wash, then back in seasoned flour before frying.
2. Let the Sauce Thicken:
Simmer the honey pepper sauce until it slightly reduces for a richer, stickier glaze.
3. Use Fresh Garlic and Honey:
Fresh ingredients elevate the sauce’s flavor and aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is honey pepper sauce made of?
It typically includes honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic, and a touch of vinegar or lemon juice for balance.
Can I use grilled chicken instead of fried?
Yes, grilled chicken is a healthier option and still pairs well with the honey pepper sauce.
How do I make it extra crispy?
Double-dip the chicken in seasoned flour and egg wash, then fry at the correct oil temperature (around 350°F).
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from the black pepper, but you can adjust the heat by adding crushed red pepper or hot sauce.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then reheat and combine before serving to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
Applebees Honey Pepper Chicken recipe is a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, combining crispy breaded chicken with a rich honey pepper sauce.
The recipe brings restaurant-quality taste to your own kitchen, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this comforting favorite anytime. Pair it with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
A fan of Applebee’s or just love flavorful chicken, this Applebees Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your home.