Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

A Sweet and Savory Delight

Honey Garlic Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, making it a favorite for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a rich glaze that coats tender, juicy chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Whether served over rice, alongside vegetables, or on its own, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavor-Packed: The honey and garlic sauce balances sweetness with a savory depth.
• Versatile: Can be made with chicken thighs, breasts, or even wings.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well for leftovers, making it a great make-ahead meal.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ¼ cup cornstarch (for coating)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• ¼ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

For Garnish (Optional):

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, red pepper flakes (if using), and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce thicken for another 1–2 minutes.

4. Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
2. Let it simmer for an additional minute until fully glazed.
3. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
4. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

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Variations

• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of sriracha or extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
• Crispy Version: Instead of pan-frying, coat the chicken in cornstarch and air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower and follow the same cooking method.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

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Servings and Timing

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

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed. Microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use skinless chicken breast, reduce the honey slightly, and opt for low-sodium soy sauce to cut back on sodium and sugar.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in thighs will take longer, about 6–7 minutes per side.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?

Steamed rice, quinoa, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles pair wonderfully with this dish.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes, bake coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, then toss in the sauce on the stovetop.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Not as written, but you can substitute honey with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the chicken first, add sauce ingredients, and pressure cook for 5 minutes. Thicken the sauce after cooking with cornstarch slurry.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Cornstarch slurry is the easiest method. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and add it to the simmering sauce.

How can I prevent the chicken from getting soggy?

Make sure to cook the chicken in a single layer and don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps keep it crispy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp, pork, or even salmon work well with the honey garlic sauce.

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Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together sweet and savory notes in perfect harmony. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Try it with your favorite sides, adjust the spice level to your liking, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

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