Honey Garlic Chicken

Craving a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Look no further than this Honey Garlic Chicken! Juicy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic sauce—it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknights or special dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry!
• Quick to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect served over rice, noodles, or alongside veggies.
• Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet honey, zesty garlic, and savory soy sauce is irresistible.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful dish:

• Chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
• Honey
• Soy sauce
• Garlic, minced
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Olive oil or butter (for cooking)
• Optional garnish: Green onions and sesame seeds

The full list of ingredients and exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below!

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces or leave whole, depending on your preference. Pat dry and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side (or until golden brown if cut into pieces). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey and soy sauce, mixing well.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Use Dark Meat for Juiciness: Chicken thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful than breasts.
• Don’t Burn the Garlic: Keep the heat moderate when cooking the garlic to avoid a bitter taste.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Add a splash of rice vinegar or lemon juice if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Try this sauce with shrimp, pork, or tofu for a twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a one-pan meal.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Honey Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Stir-fried or roasted vegetables
• Noodles like lo mein or soba
• A simple side salad with an Asian-inspired dressing

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.