Plate of honey garlic chicken garnished with green onions

Honey Garlic Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that can elevate any meal. The sweet and savory flavors create a wonderful taste that everyone will love. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ⅓ cup honey
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, finely sliced (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the flour stick better and results in a crispier surface. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off the excess.

Step 2: Sear to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—don’t let it brown. Stir in the honey and soy sauce, letting the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce, then return the chicken to the pan. Simmer for 4–5 minutes more, spooning the sauce over the chicken until it thickens and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve your honey garlic chicken hot with rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired for a pop of flavor and color.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken

Serve Honey Garlic Chicken with a side of fluffy rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Honey Garlic Chicken

To store any leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Honey Garlic Chicken

  • Make sure to dry the chicken well for a crispier texture.
  • Don’t rush the simmering process for the sauce; letting it thicken will enhance the flavor.
  • Adjust the honey and soy sauce ratio to suit your taste for sweetness or saltiness.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe by using chicken breasts instead of thighs, or by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet during step three for a one-pan meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast. Just be mindful that it may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. How do I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the honey garlic sauce.

3. Can I use fresh ginger in this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh ginger can add a nice kick. You can sauté it along with the garlic in step three for added flavor.