Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless); 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred); ¼ cup honey; 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 1 tbsp water (if using cornstarch); 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Honey garlic chicken is the perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With tender chicken thighs or breasts cooked in a flavorful sauce made from honey, garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar, this recipe is both easy and full of vibrant flavors. The garlic creates an aromatic base, while the honey provides a rich sweetness, making each bite of chicken mouthwatering. Whether you’re preparing dinner after a long day or looking for a dish to impress guests, honey garlic chicken offers simplicity without sacrificing taste. The recipe is quick to make, and the ingredients are accessible, making it a go-to for any busy weeknight. Serve it with rice, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight meal when time is limited.

2. Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a unique sauce that’s both sweet and savory, giving the chicken a delicious, rich flavor.

3. Minimal Ingredients

With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a restaurant-quality dish without needing to spend a lot of time or effort in the kitchen.

4. Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is versatile—you can swap out chicken breasts for thighs or adjust the level of sweetness and acidity by varying the amount of honey and vinegar.

5. Healthy Option

By using boneless, skinless chicken and low-sodium soy sauce, you can create a healthier, lighter dish without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced

Soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
Honey
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Water (if using cornstarch)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Garlic Butter Version: Replace olive oil with butter for a richer, buttery sauce.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Add Veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to the sauce to create a one-pan meal with extra vegetables.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook the chicken thighs (or breasts) for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the soy sauce, honey, and vinegar to the pan. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you want a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in water and add it to the skillet. Stir the mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken in Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, turning the chicken pieces to coat evenly with the sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve the honey garlic chicken over rice, with vegetables, or on its own for a flavorful, satisfying meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a non-stick skillet for easy cooking and cleaning, especially when working with sauces.
Be sure to keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing—it can burn quickly, which will affect the flavor of the dish.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, don’t hesitate to use the cornstarch slurry. It will make the sauce cling better to the chicken.
Adjust the honey to your taste. Add more for a sweeter dish or less if you prefer a more savory flavor.
If you’re using chicken breasts, be sure to cook them fully without overcooking, as they can become dry if left too long in the pan.

How to Serve

Honey garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. You can also pair it with sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. For a complete meal, a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh salad would round things out nicely.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover honey garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Freezing

To freeze the chicken, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Stir the sauce and chicken to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs. Just be sure not to overcook them to keep them moist and tender.

2. Can I use honey substitute?

Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute like stevia if you prefer.

3. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, then prepare the sauce on the stovetop and pour it over the baked chicken.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before using.

6. How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce for added heat.

7. Can I use another vinegar instead of rice vinegar?

Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute for rice vinegar.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s properly cooked.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just be sure to use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

10. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to the sauce for a complete one-pan meal.

Conclusion

Honey garlic chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a delicious, sweet-savory sauce. It’s quick to make, customizable, and can be served with various sides to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a meal to impress guests, this recipe delivers rich flavors in no time. With its easy-to-follow steps and versatility, honey garlic chicken is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.