Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

There’s something magical about a quick, wholesome meal like Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry. I remember the first time I made it on a busy weeknight. The smell of sizzling chicken combined with the sweet aroma of honey and the savory punch of garlic filled my kitchen, making it feel like a cozy restaurant. It’s one of those recipes that brings the family together around the dinner table, and as I serve it over a bed of steaming rice, everyone’s faces light up in anticipation. This dish is not just about eating; it’s about sharing a moment with loved ones, and it has become a staple in our home. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful stir fry that bursts with flavor and texture.

What’s In This Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

When creating a dish like Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, the selection of ingredients plays a crucial role in the flavor profile. Each component complements the others, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture. The star of the show, of course, is the chicken, which absorbs all those fantastic flavors. The vegetables add a vibrant crunch, while the sauce ties everything together beautifully.

• 1/4 cup honey: The sweet base for the sauce, adding richness and balance.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce: Provides a salty, savory depth that enhances the flavors.
• 1 tsp chili garlic sauce: A bit of heat to elevate the dish.
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, these are perfect for stir-frying.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: An additional layer of garlic flavor.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: A touch of spice to round out the dish.
• 1 tbsp corn starch: Helps to thicken the sauce.
• 2 tbsp Land O Lakes Spreadable Butter with Olive Oil and Sea Salt: Adds richness and a buttery flavor.
• 1 tsp sesame oil: Imparts a lovely aroma and taste.
• 1 medium zucchini: Adds a fresh crunch and color.
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper: Sweet and vibrant, it complements the other veggies.
• 1/2 white onion: Provides a foundational flavor.
• 3 cloves minced garlic: Fresh garlic for that aromatic kick.
• 1 tsp minced ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
• 1/4 tsp sesame seeds: For garnish, adding a nutty flavor and appealing texture.

Directions for Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

Making Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. The process is straightforward, and I love how quickly everything comes together, creating a vibrant dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

1. In a small bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, and chili garlic sauce. Whisk them together until well blended, and set aside. This will be your sauce that brings all the flavors together.

2. In another medium bowl, season the chicken with the salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Then, sprinkle the corn starch over the chicken and toss everything together to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This step will help the chicken stay tender and flavorful.

3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of Land O Lakes Spreadable Butter with Olive Oil and Sea Salt. Once melted, add the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are lightly charred and tender, about 3 to 5 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and sesame oil. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the coated chicken. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

5. Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and minced ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic. This will infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors.

6. Pour the sauce you prepared earlier into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a boil, stirring occasionally until it thickens, around 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.

7. Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet. Toss everything together until the veggies are well coated in the sauce and heated through, about 2 minutes. This is when the dish starts to look beautiful!

8. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal that will please everyone!

Variations to Try

If you want to mix things up with your Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, there are plenty of variations to explore. Here are some ideas to keep the dish exciting and fresh!

• Substitute proteins: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein source.
• Add nuts: Toss in some cashews or peanuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add more heat by incorporating sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Make it a salad: Serve the stir fry over a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option.
• Experiment with sauces: Try adding teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce alongside the honey for a different flavor dimension.
• Change the base: Instead of rice, try serving the stir fry over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
• Use seasonal veggies: Depending on the season, add in some seasonal vegetables like asparagus in the spring or squash in the fall.

What to Serve With Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

Pairing the right sides with your Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options!

• Steamed rice: Classic white or brown rice is a perfect base for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Noodles: Serve over chow mein or rice noodles for a different texture and flavor.
• Side salads: A light cucumber or green salad can balance the richness of the stir fry.
• Spring rolls: Crunchy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls complement the meal beautifully.
• Vegetable dumplings: Serve with a side of dumplings for a delightful addition to your meal.
• Garlic bread: For something different, garlic bread can be an unexpected but delicious pairing.
• Fresh fruit: A refreshing fruit salad can serve as a light dessert after a flavorful meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry stands out as a quick, satisfying meal that balances flavor and nutrition. The sweet and savory sauce, combined with tender chicken and vibrant veggies, makes it a family favorite. I encourage you to try making it for dinner; you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up such a delicious dish. Enjoy the warm, delightful aromas filling your kitchen, and savor the smiles around your table!

Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

The ultimate comfort food, this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and easy weeknight dinner bursting with flavor. Sweet, savory, and loaded with fresh veggies, it's a delicious way to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a meal your family will love!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp chili garlic sauce
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp corn starch
• 2 tbsp Land O Lakes Spreadable Butter with Olive Oil and Sea Salt divided
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 medium zucchini sliced into half moons
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1/2 white onion chopped
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 1/4 tsp sesame seeds

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Skillet

Method

 

1. In a small bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, and chili garlic sauce. Whisk them together until well blended, and set aside.
2. In another medium bowl, season the chicken with the salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Then, sprinkle the corn starch over the chicken and toss everything together to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of Land O Lakes Spreadable Butter with Olive Oil and Sea Salt. Once melted, add the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are lightly charred and tender, about 3 to 5 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and sesame oil. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the coated chicken. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and minced ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Pour the sauce you prepared earlier into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a boil, stirring occasionally until it thickens, around 1 to 2 minutes.
7. Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet. Toss everything together until the veggies are well coated in the sauce and heated through, about 2 minutes.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Notes

• Tip 1: Feel free to substitute your favorite veggies in place of any veggies listed above.
• Tip 2: You can also use boneless skinless chicken breasts in place of the chicken thighs if desired.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.