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Home » Recipe Collections

36 Spicy Recipes That’ll Warm You Up in the Dead of Winter

Published: Jan 31, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Spicy recipes are a great way to shake off the winter chill and bring some heat to your table. When the cold settles in, nothing beats bold flavors that kick things up a notch. Whether you like just a little spice or the kind that makes your nose tingle, these dishes bring serious heat. No bland, boring meals here—just straight-up comfort with a fiery edge.

Overhead shot of a pot of the soup with two bowls of the soup and garnishes.

Green Chili Chicken Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spicy Vodka Pasta

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This version of spicy vodka pasta works with or without vodka and can be made vegan or vegetarian. A great choice for weeknight dinners or a cozy date night when you're craving something with heat.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

An overhead image of gochujang tofu rice bowl with chopsticks on the side.
Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gochujang tofu features crispy, golden tofu coated in a bold, spicy-sweet Korean sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a flavorful way to enjoy a plant-based protein with a kick.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

An overhead view of gomen wat in a white bowl.
Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gomen Wat is a classic Ethiopian collard green dish with bold spices and rich flavor. A perfect side dish to add some heat to your meal while keeping things simple and nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Air fryer vegan buffalo cauliflower bites in a bowl with dip nearby, placed under a wooden board.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These vegan buffalo cauliflower wings are crispy, fiery bites that bring serious heat. A go-to appetizer for game nights and parties, whether baked or air-fried.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Jalapeno Corn

An image of jalapeno corn in a wooden bowl with tortilla chips on the side.
Jalapeno Corn. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This jalapeño corn is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with just the right amount of spice. It comes together in only 10 minutes, making it a quick and bold side dish.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Corn

Spicy Indian Bombay Potatoes

Horizontal shot of Bombay Potatoes on a plate with naan, with extra naan and red onions on the side.
Spicy Indian Bombay Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Bombay potatoes turn simple ingredients into crispy, spiced perfection in just 30 minutes. A bold and comforting dish that pairs well with any meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Indian Bombay Potatoes

Spicy Pumpkin Soup

An overhead image of spicy pumpkin soup served in a bowl.
Spicy Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted curry pumpkin soup is creamy and bold, needing only a sheet pan and a blender. Save the pumpkin seeds for a crunchy topping that complements the heat.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Pumpkin Soup

Spicy Alfredo Pasta

An overhead iimage of two spicy alfredo pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Alfredo Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spicy Alfredo sauce transforms simple pasta into a rich and fiery dish in just 30 minutes. Made with a creamy red pepper base and herbs, it's a great weeknight dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Alfredo Pasta

Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Top view of butternut squash soup with a spoon in it.
Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Thai-curried butternut squash soup is creamy and filled with bold spices. A warming choice for chilly evenings when you want something easy and full of depth.
Get the Recipe: Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Green Chili Chicken Soup

Overhead shot of a pot of the soup with two bowls of the soup and garnishes.
Green Chili Chicken Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Green chili soup is filled with shredded chicken, white beans, and a punch of spice. Its hearty broth makes it a great choice for warming up on a cold day.
Get the Recipe: Green Chili Chicken Soup

Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower

A close up view of whole roasted cauliflower.
Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gochujang cauliflower delivers bold umami flavor with a spicy Korean-inspired sauce. Serve it family-style, as taco filling, or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower

Spicy Soba Noodles

An overhead image of spicy soba noodles in a bowl.
Spicy Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These spicy soba noodles combine nutty noodles, crisp veggies, and a fiery sauce. A quick way to bring bold flavors to your table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Soba Noodles

Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Close-up of spicy beef enchilada tortellini in a white plate.
Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Beef Enchilada Tortellini combines cheesy tortellini and seasoned ground beef in a rich enchilada sauce. A hearty meal that’s easy to make and perfect when you need something warming and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Breast

Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Breast on two black plates with parsley and one plate with green beans.
Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Air fryer buffalo chicken breast packs bold flavor into a quick, mess-free dish. In under 30 minutes, this recipe turns plain chicken into a spicy weeknight staple.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Breast

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Grilled hot honey chicken balances sweet and spicy flavors for a bold and easy meal. Whether for a quick dinner or a weekend cookout, it’s ready in just 40 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Spicy Vegan Noodle Soup

Spicy Vegan Noodle Soup. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Spicy vegan noodle soup is a quick 10-minute meal that tastes like it simmered for hours. Ramen noodles soak up the bold broth, making it a fast yet deeply flavorful dish.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vegan Noodle Soup

Gochujang Chicken

Chinese gochujang chicken in a skillet on a table with black kitchen towel wrapped around the handle.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Gochujang chicken thighs absorb a bold, spicy-sweet marinade that brings depth to every bite. The quick preparation makes them a great go-to for flavorful weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Kung Pao chicken delivers tender chicken and crisp veggies in a bold, spicy sauce. A quick and flavorful way to bring the taste of takeout to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Air Fryer Boneless Wings

Top view of air fryer boneless wings on plates.
Air Fryer Boneless Wings. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Air fryer boneless wings turn simple chicken into crispy, spicy bites for any occasion. Tossed in buffalo sauce, they make a flavorful addition to game days or weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Wings

Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

Low angle shot of korean fried chicken with a hand holding a piece of the chicken.
Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air fryer Korean fried chicken has a crisp texture and a bold, spicy-sweet glaze. A beginner-friendly way to achieve restaurant-style flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Korma

Low angle shot of bowls of chicken korma.
Instant Pot Chicken Korma. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot chicken korma delivers a rich, spiced curry in a fraction of the usual time. A convenient way to enjoy deep, warming flavors without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Korma

Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Honey Lemon Pepper Thighs with parsley on a white plate.
Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Honey lemon pepper chicken thighs combine tangy, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors. The chicken stays juicy while the seasoning brings just the right amount of heat.
Get the Recipe: Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Easy Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Easy Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Beef bulgogi bowls bring crispy ground beef and a bold, spicy-sweet sauce together over rice. Topped with pickled vegetables, they’re an easy way to enjoy Korean-inspired flavors at home.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Spicy Korean Tofu Soup

Spicy Korean Tofu Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Korean tofu soup, or Sundubu Jjigae, is a bold, spicy dish with tofu, kimchi, and mushrooms. Perfect for a cozy night in when you want something hearty and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Tofu Soup

Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Two bowls of hot and sour soup.
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken hot and sour soup delivers a tangy, fiery kick with tofu, mushrooms, and egg ribbons. A deeply flavorful option when you want something warming but a little different.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon

Jalapeño Poppers on a platter with a bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air fryer jalapeño poppers are creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy bacon. A bold appetizer with just the right amount of spice for game days or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon

Vegan Spiced White Bean Soup

Vegan Spiced White Bean Soup. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

White bean soup is packed with Mexican spices, making it a bold and hearty option. Whether made on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, it’s a great way to warm up.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Spiced White Bean Soup

Cashew Chicken

Slow cooker cashew chicken with wooden utensils in a bowl.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow cooker cashew chicken combines sweet and spicy flavors with tender chicken and snap peas. A hands-off way to enjoy bold flavors without the need for constant attention.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken

Roasted chicken thighs with butternut squash, cauliflower, and rice on a plate.
Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Sheet pan chicken thighs in maple curry sauce come with roasted vegetables for an easy meal. The mix of spice and sweetness makes this a great one-pan option with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These chicken wings are glazed with a sweet and spicy sauce for a bold, flavorful bite. A great alternative to takeout wings, they make any gathering more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Honey Garlic Sriracha Skillet Chicken

Asian glazed chicken in a skillet with lemon slices.
Honey Garlic Sriracha Skillet Chicken. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Honey garlic sriracha skillet chicken brings together heat, sweetness, and bold flavors in one pan. With easy cleanup and quick prep, it’s a go-to for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Sriracha Skillet Chicken

Buffalo Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Bites

Buffalo chicken broccoli cheddar bites with dip on a plate.
Buffalo Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Bites. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Buffalo chicken cheddar bites are filled with spicy, cheesy goodness, making them perfect for parties. Bite-sized and packed with flavor, they’re a game day essential.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Bites

Chicken Bean Soup

Overhead image of a bowl of chicken bean soup.
Chicken Bean Soup. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Chicken bean soup combines tender chicken, mild spices, and hearty beans for a warming meal. A great option for busy nights when you need something simple but full of depth.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bean Soup

Curry Chicken with Onion

Curry Chicken with Onion inside golden pan.
Curry Chicken with Onion. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

This chicken curry features juicy chicken in a rich, spicy sauce with caramelized onions. Whether for a quiet night in or entertaining guests, it’s always a flavorful choice.
Get the Recipe: Curry Chicken with Onion

Spicy Orange Beef Carnitas

Close-up image of spicy orange beef carnitas in a bowl.
Spicy Orange Beef Carnitas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spicy orange beef carnitas bring tender, slow-braised beef with just the right amount of heat. A one-pot meal that makes plenty of leftovers, perfect for cold-weather meals.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Orange Beef Carnitas

Spicy Chicken Lime Soup

Spicy chicken lime soup in bowls.
Spicy Chicken Lime Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spicy chicken lime soup combines bold heat with bright citrus for a refreshing yet fiery broth. A comforting choice for chilly nights when you need something bold and warming.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chicken Lime Soup

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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