Delicious plate of Honey Garlic Chicken garnished with herbs and served with rice.

Honey Garlic Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick and easy recipe that brings the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s great for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss. The combination of honey and garlic creates a wonderful glaze that elevates simple chicken into a delightful dish. Plus, this recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for families and anyone who enjoys tasty food on a time crunch.

how to make Honey Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Coat the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry, then toss it in a bowl with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This light coating helps the chicken develop a crisp edge while keeping the inside juicy.

Step 2: Sear to Perfection
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the oil and pan-sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown—about 4–5 minutes per side. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Pour in the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, water, and a splash of sesame oil if using. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and let it simmer for 5–6 minutes until the sauce thickens into a beautiful glaze. The chicken will soak up all that sticky-sweet garlic flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over steamed rice or noodles and spoon extra sauce over the top for good measure.

how to serve Honey Garlic Chicken

Serve Honey Garlic Chicken hot, preferably over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. The sticky sauce pairs beautifully with these sides, soaking in and adding extra flavor. You can also create a colorful plate with vegetables, making your meal balance with texture and nutrition.

how to store Honey Garlic Chicken

If you have leftovers, store Honey Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat thoroughly before serving. You can also freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

tips to make Honey Garlic Chicken

  • Make sure your chicken is patted dry before coating it with cornstarch for the best texture.
  • Don’t rush the searing step; this helps to build flavor and create a nice crust.
  • If you like it spicy, consider adding chili flakes or fresh hot peppers to the sauce.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking.

variation

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes. Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during the simmering step to make it a one-pan meal. You can also substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well in this recipe. Just be mindful of cooking time, as they may cook a bit quicker.

2. What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?
This dish goes great with steamed rice, noodles, or a simple salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

3. Is it okay to make the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before adding it to your cooked chicken.