Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless); 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral cooking oil); 3-4 garlic cloves, minced; ⅓ cup honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar); 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Posted OnJanuary 24, 2025

Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. This recipe balances the richness of honey and garlic with tender, juicy chicken for a dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying. Whether served over rice, noodles, or alongside steamed vegetables, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
Minimal Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, it’s budget-friendly and accessible.
Versatile: Works well with different cuts of chicken and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Stores well and reheats wonderfully for leftovers.

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
3-4 garlic cloves, minced
⅓ cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
If using chicken breasts, consider slicing them into even fillets for quicker cooking.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Optional: Thicken the Sauce

If a thicker sauce is desired, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water to form a slurry. Add this to the sauce and stir until it thickens.

5. Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Possible Variations

Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
Alternative Sweeteners: Use maple syrup or brown sugar instead of honey.
Vegetable Boost: Add broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to the skillet for a one-pan meal.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but cooking times will need to be adjusted as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

2. What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or stir-fried vegetables.

3. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, bake the chicken at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, then pour the sauce over it during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The chicken reheats well and can be paired with a variety of sides for easy lunches or dinners.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients. Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough.

6. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before adding it to the chicken.

7. What other garnishes can I use?

In addition to sesame seeds and green onions, try chopped cilantro or crushed peanuts for added flavor and texture.

8. How do I know the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken is 165°F.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free as written.

10. How can I make the sauce less sweet?

Reduce the amount of honey and add a little extra vinegar or soy sauce to balance the flavors.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful, crowd-pleasing dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a reliable go-to. With its versatility, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences, making it an adaptable and dependable addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!