An incredible quick and easy way to serve up chicken breast – seared then simmered in the most amazing honey garlic sauce.
Craving a dish that's quick to whip up yet packed with bold flavors? Look no further than this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe—a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What makes it truly special is the star ingredient: honey. Not only does it add natural sweetness, but it also helps create that irresistibly sticky, caramelized glaze that clings perfectly to tender chicken. Pair it with rice, noodles, or your favorite veggies for a versatile meal that’s as delicious as it is simple to prepare.
Let’s dive in and bring some magic to your dinner table with this easy and flavorful recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
There’s so much to adore about this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe! From its simplicity to its mouthwatering flavors, this dish checks all the boxes for a go-to meal. Here’s why it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without the hassle.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a perfectly balanced sauce that’s sweet, savory, and utterly satisfying.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich, comforting flavors of this dish.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside roasted veggies for a complete meal that fits your preferences.
- Naturally Sweetened: By using honey instead of processed sugars, you get a healthier alternative that enhances the dish’s depth of flavor.
Once you try it, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Honey Garlic Chicken:
For the Chicken:
- Chicken thighs or breasts (1.5 lbs): Thighs are juicy and tender, but chicken breasts work just as well for a leaner option.
- Salt and pepper: To season the chicken before cooking.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- Honey (⅓ cup): The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and a sticky glaze. Opt for high-quality honey like Ames Farm honey for the best flavor.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds a savory, aromatic punch to the sauce.
- Soy sauce (¼ cup): Brings depth and a hint of saltiness to balance the sweetness.
- Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a slight tang to brighten the flavors.
- Cornstarch (1 teaspoon) mixed with 1 tablespoon of water: For thickening the sauce to that perfect glossy consistency.
Optional Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds: Add a nutty crunch and an extra touch of flavor.
- Green onions: Chopped, for a fresh pop of color and taste.
- With these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, you’re just steps away from creating a restaurant-quality meal at home. Ready to start cooking? Let’sove on to the step-by-step instructions!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Honey Garlic Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs or breasts dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
If using chicken breasts, consider slicing them in half lengthwise for quicker and even cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
Mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce to thicken.
Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating each piece with the sauce.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside your favorite roasted vegetables.
Enjoy your homemade Honey Garlic Chicken—a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious!
Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken
Make sure your Honey Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time with these helpful tips:
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic gives the sauce a robust and aromatic flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic from jars for the best results.
High-quality honey, like Ames Farm honey, elevates the sweetness and flavor profile of the dish.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
When searing the chicken, ensure there’s enough space between the pieces. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, preventing that golden crust.
3. Adjust to Taste
The sauce can be easily adjusted to suit your preference:
For more sweetness, add an extra tablespoon of honey.
For a tangier kick, increase the vinegar slightly.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili paste for some heat.
4. Keep the Chicken Juicy
Avoid overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices.
5. Double the Sauce
If you love extra sauce for drizzling over rice or veggies, consider doubling the sauce ingredients.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve tender, flavorful chicken and a perfectly balanced sauce every time.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Honey Garlic Chicken with these sides for a complete and satisfying meal:
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: The sticky sauce pairs wonderfully with fluffy grains.
- Noodles: Toss the chicken and sauce with your favorite noodles for a comforting twist.
- Roasted or Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or snap peas make excellent accompaniments.
- Salad: Serve with a light Asian-inspired salad to balance the dish.
Variations and Substitutions
Make this Honey Garlic Chicken your own by experimenting with these creative variations and substitutions:
1. Protein Alternatives
- Shrimp: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side before adding it to the sauce.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Press and cube the tofu, then pan-fry until golden before tossing in the sauce.
- Beef or Pork: Thinly sliced beef or pork works beautifully with the honey garlic sauce.
2. Sauce Enhancements
- Ginger: Add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a spicy, aromatic kick.
- Orange Juice: Replace the vinegar with orange juice for a sweet and tangy citrus twist.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce for heat.
3. Low-Sodium Option
Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the saltiness without compromising flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Adaptation
Replace regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make the dish gluten-free.
5. Vegetable Add-Ins
Add stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas directly to the skillet for a one-pan meal.
6. Make It Crispy
For a crispy version, coat the chicken in cornstarch before searing. This will create a light crust that holds up well to the sauce.
7. Air Fryer Option
Cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Then, toss it in the sauce for a healthier twist.
Why Honey is the Star Ingredient
One of the key elements of this dish is the honey, which lends natural sweetness and helps create that irresistibly sticky glaze. Using high-quality honey not only enhances the flavor but also offers subtle floral and earthy notes that complement the garlic and soy sauce beautifully.
Opt for unfiltered, raw honey—like Ames Farm honey—for an authentic taste and added health benefits. Unlike processed sugars, honey provides a more wholesome sweetness, making this dish both indulgent and a little better for you.
Try Out This Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe!
This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors in a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about the recipe:
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a leaner option and work well in this recipe. Just be mindful of cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and combine them when reheating to keep the chicken tender.
What’s the Best Type of Honey for This Recipe?
Choose a raw, unfiltered honey for the best flavor. Local varieties often have unique taste profiles that elevate the dish.
