Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken served on a plate with vegetables.

Honey Garlic Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that brings sweet and savory flavors to the table. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner yet special enough for family gatherings. This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and can be made in under 30 minutes! You’ll love how the honey caramelizes and the garlic adds a wonderful aroma as it cooks.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup pure honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or lemon juice)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking oil for searing

Directions:

  1. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic until smooth.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of cooking oil. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. Pour the sauce over the seared chicken, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
  5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken

You can serve Honey Garlic Chicken with a side of steamed rice, which will soak up the delicious sauce. Stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, also make a great addition. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch.

How to Store Honey Garlic Chicken

To store Honey Garlic Chicken, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Tips to Make Honey Garlic Chicken

  • Make sure to pat the chicken dry before searing it for a nice golden crust.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to taste.
  • For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
  • You can marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight for extra flavor.

Variation

You can use bone-in or skin-on chicken pieces for a different texture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Alternatively, try this recipe with shrimp or tofu for a different twist!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs. They will be juicy and flavorful.

What can I substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute for honey if you prefer a vegan option.

How can I make this dish spicier?
To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes, chili paste, or a dash of hot sauce to your sauce mixture.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Honey Garlic Chicken recipe!