When you’re craving a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner, this Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is a perfect choice. Combining the sweetness of honey with the rich, savory flavor of garlic, this dish brings the best of both worlds to your table. Whether you’re planning a family meal or simply want something comforting yet special, Honey Garlic Chicken ticks all the right boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Honey Garlic Chicken is a crowd-pleaser. Its blend of simple ingredients makes it quick to prepare, yet it tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant. The best part? You can customize it based on your preferences. Want it sweeter? Add more honey. Craving a little heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes.
Not only is it bursting with flavor, but this dish is also versatile. You can serve it with steamed rice, vegetables, or even mashed potatoes. It’s guaranteed to elevate any dinner night!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Honey Garlic Chicken recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)
- 3 tablespoons of honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re using chicken breasts, you might want to slice them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking. Chicken thighs are already naturally juicy and work well for this recipe if you prefer dark meat.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Chicken breasts will require a bit more cooking time than thighs, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. We’ll use the same skillet for the sauce, so don’t clean it just yet!
3. Create the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Lower the heat to medium-low, and add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, but be careful not to burn it.
Next, pour in the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar, and stir the mixture well. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure it doesn’t burn. If you like your sauce a bit thicker, dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water, then stir this slurry into the sauce. Let it cook for another minute until it thickens.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the honey garlic sauce. Turn the chicken pieces in the sauce to coat them thoroughly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes so that it absorbs all that delicious flavor. At this point, you can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a touch of spice if desired.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is fully coated and heated through, turn off the heat. Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and drizzle any extra sauce from the skillet on top. For a beautiful finish, sprinkle some sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions over the top.
Tips for Cooking Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken
1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Whether you’re using breasts or thighs, it’s essential not to overcook your chicken. Overcooked chicken can become tough and chewy. Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which is perfect for juicy chicken.
2. Balance Sweetness and Savory: Honey adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the savory garlic and soy sauce. However, if you prefer a slightly less sweet flavor, reduce the honey by a tablespoon or add an extra splash of soy sauce.
3. Add Vegetables for a Complete Meal: To turn this dish into a one-pan wonder, you can add vegetables to the skillet. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas work beautifully with the sauce and add texture and color to your meal.
4. Thicken the Sauce if Desired: If you want a thicker, sticky sauce, adding a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) to the sauce will do the trick. Stir it in during the simmering process until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve with Your Favorite Side: Honey Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. If you’re in the mood for something light, a side of steamed or roasted vegetables will complement the dish perfectly.
Why Honey Garlic Chicken Is a Family FavoriteWhat makes this Honey Garlic Chicken so special is its simplicity. You can whip it up with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Honey, garlic, soy sauce—these staples come together to create a magical flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
Moreover, it’s a dish that adapts well to busy schedules. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced home cook, this recipe is straightforward yet impressive. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests.
The balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness is addictive. Plus, the tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy sauce makes every bite a delight. You can easily double the recipe if you’re cooking for a larger group or want leftovers for the next day.
Variations of Honey Garlic Chicken
There are countless ways to make this dish your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add a kick of spice: For those who love a bit of heat, adding sriracha or chili paste to the sauce will elevate the flavor profile.
- Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken: If you prefer crispy chicken, dredge your chicken pieces in flour or cornstarch before frying. This will give the chicken a crunchy exterior while keeping it juicy on the inside.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Wings: This sauce works wonders on chicken wings! Toss baked or fried wings in the honey garlic sauce for a game-day favorite.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Honey Garlic Chicken?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick weeknight dinner option.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and tend to be juicier. Adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs cook faster than breasts.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Honey Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Honey Garlic Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat before serving.
What should I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?
Steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables are excellent side dishes for this flavorful chicken.