Few dishes manage to pack so much flavor into such a short cooking time as Honey Garlic Chicken. This recipe takes tender, juicy chicken pieces and coats them in a glossy sauce that’s both sweet and savory, with a warm hint of garlic that makes each bite irresistible. The balance of flavors means it works just as well for a casual weeknight dinner as it does for a more dressed-up occasion.
What makes this dish even more appealing is its speed. From the moment you start prepping to when it hits the table, you’re looking at just 25 minutes. That makes it a perfect go-to for busy evenings when you still want something homemade and satisfying without resorting to takeout. The steps are simple, the ingredients are familiar, and the payoff is huge—a plate of beautifully glazed chicken that smells as good as it tastes.
And while it’s already a complete star on its own, Honey Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile. Pair it with fluffy rice, stir-fried noodles, or a bed of crisp greens for a lighter take. You can keep the flavors mellow for a family-friendly version or dial up the spice to suit your tastes. Once you try it, you might just find it earning a regular spot in your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: Only 25 minutes from prep to plate.
- Simple ingredients: Everything is easy to find at any grocery store.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or spice level to your preference.
- Better than takeout: Fresh, homemade, and without unnecessary additives.
- Pairs with anything: Serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Coat the chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Sprinkle with cornstarch and toss until every piece is coated evenly. This will help create a light crust and allow the sauce to cling beautifully.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the garlic base
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.
Step 4: Prepare the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes if using. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the garlic, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Combine and finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing well to coat it in the sauce. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the chicken.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, and enjoy hot with your favorite side.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Protein swaps: Try shrimp, pork, or tofu for different textures and flavors.
- Extra veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas for color and nutrition.
- Make it spicier: Increase chili flakes or add a teaspoon of sriracha.
- Gluten-free option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Sweeter or tangier: Adjust honey or vinegar amounts to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up the sauce. For a noodle-based option, toss it with cooked lo mein or rice noodles. A side of stir-fried bok choy or garlic green beans adds freshness and crunch.
For a lighter, low-carb approach, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside a crisp green salad with sesame dressing. This dish also works well as part of an Asian-inspired dinner spread with dumplings, spring rolls, or miso soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water to loosen the sauce, stirring until heated through. Microwave reheating works too, but the chicken may lose a bit of its crispness.
Freezing is possible—store the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet for best results.
Health Benefits
Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and keeping you full longer. Garlic brings antioxidants and potential immune-boosting benefits, while honey offers natural sweetness along with trace nutrients. By making this dish at home, you control the sodium, sugar, and oil content, making it a healthier choice compared to restaurant versions.
Final Thoughts
Honey Garlic Chicken is one of those rare recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s quick enough for a weeknight, special enough for guests, and endlessly adaptable to suit your preferences. The sticky, garlicky sauce clings to every bite of tender chicken, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.
Whether you stick with the classic version or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to win over anyone who tries it. Keep it in your recipe rotation—you’ll be glad you did.
The Goods
Honey Garlic Chicken
We appreciate you taking the time to rate!
Recipes
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes optional, for heat
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Coat the chicken
- Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Sprinkle with cornstarch and toss until every piece is coated evenly. This will help create a light crust and allow the sauce to cling beautifully.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the garlic base
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.
Step 4: Prepare the sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes if using. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the garlic, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Combine and finish
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing well to coat it in the sauce. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the chicken.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, and enjoy hot with your favorite side.
Leave a Reply