Honey Chicken

Honey Chicken has a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made it; it was a busy weeknight, and I wanted something quick yet delicious for dinner. The aroma of sweet and savory flavors filled my kitchen, instantly making the house feel warm and inviting. This dish is not just about feeding the family; it’s about creating a cozy atmosphere and sharing moments together around the table. I loved how simple ingredients came together to create such a flavorful meal that left everyone asking for seconds. The magic happens when the chicken is cooked to perfection, absorbing the rich taste of honey and soy sauce, while the broccoli adds a vibrant crunch. Whether it’s a regular weeknight or a gathering with friends, Honey Chicken has always been a go-to favorite that brings smiles and satisfaction.

Ingredients for Honey Chicken

When it comes to making Honey Chicken, the ingredients are simple but effective. Each component plays a vital role in crafting a dish that’s flavorful and satisfying. The star ingredients are chicken, honey, and soy sauce, which create a delicious marinade that penetrates the chicken and enhances its natural flavors. A touch of broccoli not only adds color but also a delightful crunch. Let’s explore these ingredients in detail.

• ½ cup honey – This ingredient is the key to the dish’s sweet and sticky flavor, which makes it so irresistible.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds a savory depth that balances the sweetness of the honey.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – A little heat to contrast the sweetness; adjust to your liking!
• ½ teaspoon paprika – Enhances the color and adds a subtle smoky flavor.
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt – Provides a savory element that complements the other flavors perfectly.
• 1½ tablespoons olive oil – Used for cooking the chicken until golden brown.
• 1 cup broccoli, chopped – Adds a fresh crunch and bright color to the dish.
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts – The main protein of this dish, providing a satisfying base.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Enhances the sweetness and caramelizes during cooking.

Making This Honey Chicken

Cooking Honey Chicken is as enjoyable as it is rewarding. The first step is to prepare your ingredients, making the process seamless. Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in no time.

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This allows for even cooking and helps the chicken absorb all the flavors from the marinade. Season the pieces with a sprinkle of garlic salt and paprika to enhance the flavor profile. Make sure each piece is coated well.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, brown sugar, paprika, and garlic salt. This mixture is what gives your chicken its deliciously sticky glaze—make sure it’s well combined to achieve a uniform flavor.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink in the center and has a nice golden color.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the pieces. As the sauce heats up, it will thicken slightly, creating a luscious glaze around the chicken.
5. Add the chopped broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the broccoli is well mixed with the chicken. Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still vibrant in color.
6. Once everything is well combined and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Serve the Honey Chicken hot, over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will surely satisfy your hunger!

Variations to Try

There are so many ways to enjoy Honey Chicken. Get creative with these variations to keep your meals exciting. Each option brings its own unique twist to the classic recipe.

• Add Vegetables: Mix in different vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different flavor profile and texture.
• Spices: Experiment with different spices such as ginger or sesame oil to give the dish a unique Asian flair.
• Rice Alternatives: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative to traditional rice.
• Make it Spicy: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some sriracha to the sauce.
• Garnish: Top with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving for an extra crunch and burst of flavor.

How to Serve Honey Chicken

Serving Honey Chicken is about more than just putting it on the plate; it’s about creating an experience. Here are some ideas to ensure your dish is a hit:

• With Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly.
• On Noodles: For a twist, try serving it over udon or rice noodles to give a different texture and flavor.
• As a Meal Prep: Consider portioning it out for lunchboxes for the week. It reheats beautifully!
• Side Dishes: Pair with a simple salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal. The freshness balances the richness of the chicken.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even casual gatherings with friends.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat and serve to enjoy the flavors again!

FAQ

Conclusion

Honey Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that make it a staple in my kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and family-friendly! I encourage you to try making it for your next dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that everyone will love.

Honey Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Honey Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that will satisfy your cravings. With juicy chicken and tender broccoli coated in a rich sauce, this easy weeknight dinner will impress your family and friends. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• 1½ tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup broccoli
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Cut chicken into bite-size pieces and season with some garlic salt & paprika.
2. In a bowl, whisk together your honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, brown sugar, paprika, and garlic salt.
3. Cook chicken in hot olive oil and stir until lightly brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in honey mixture and chopped broccoli and continue to cook and stir until chicken is no longer pink and sauce has thickened.
5. Serve over white or brown rice and ENJOY!

Notes

• Making ahead of time: Prepare the ingredients for this honey garlic chicken recipe ahead of time, but save the cooking until you’re ready to serve. Cut the chicken breasts and mix up the sauce then place them in separate airtight containers.
• Storage: Leftover easy honey chicken recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: Can you freeze this? Yes, store in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
• Reheat: Leftovers in a large skillet, and stir until hot. The oven or slow cooker will also work to reheat. If you’re in a hurry, reheat in the microwave.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!