Honey Garlic Chicken

There’s something irresistibly comforting and homey about Honey Garlic Chicken. I remember the first time I made it; the sweet aroma of melting honey and sizzling garlic filled the kitchen, drawing family members in like moths to a flame. As I stirred the golden concoction, I could already hear their excited chatter about how they couldn’t wait to dig in. The combination of sweet and savory creates a harmony that’s hard to resist. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings back the warmth of family gatherings around the dinner table.

Key Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken

The ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken are straightforward yet impactful. Each component plays a vital role in creating the dish’s unique flavor profile. The combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic elements makes this dish stand out.

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces) – The star of the show! Tender and juicy, the chicken absorbs all those fantastic flavors.
• 2 teaspoons salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon pepper – Adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder – A quick way to infuse garlic flavor throughout the dish.
• 2 tablespoons butter (divided in half) – Adds richness and helps in browning the chicken.
• 1½ tablespoons sesame oil (or olive oil) – Brings a nutty aroma and flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• ½ cup onion (finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic provides a bold flavor that’s essential.
• 1⅛ cups honey (1 cup plus 2 tablespoons) – The star ingredient that gives this dish its sweet and sticky glaze.
• 2 tablespoons chili sauce – Introduces a touch of heat and complexity.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
• Green onions (chopped for garnish) – Provides freshness and a pop of color.
• Sesame seeds (for garnish) – Adds a nutty crunch to the finished dish.
• Cooked rice (for serving) – The perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce.

Making This Honey Garlic Chicken

Cooking Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. You’ll love how simple it is to create this savory dish. Let’s dive into the steps!

1. Start by sprinkling the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This initial seasoning is critical for infusing flavor into the chicken before it hits the pan.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add half the seasoned chicken and let it cook. You want it to turn golden brown on the outside, but don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through yet. Keep an eye on its color; it should be a beautiful golden hue.
3. Remove the partially cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to keep it warm. This step helps absorb any excess grease. Drain the skillet to prepare for the next batch.
4. With the remaining tablespoon of butter, repeat the cooking process for the other half of the chicken. Remember, the goal is to achieve that golden brown color.
5. Next, heat the sesame oil in the same skillet. Once hot, add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when it becomes soft and fragrant.
6. Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute. Be cautious about the heat; you don’t want the garlic to burn, as that can impart a bitter flavor.
7. Pour in the honey, chili sauce, and soy sauce into the skillet. Bring this mixture to a low boil. As it heats, you’ll notice it starting to bubble and thicken, which should take around 15 to 20 minutes.
8. Once the sauce has thickened enough to coat a spoon, return the chicken to the pan. Stir well to ensure each piece is completely coated in the delicious sauce. Let it simmer for another 7 to 12 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through. You can check by cutting into a piece—the juices should run clear.
9. Finally, serve the Honey Garlic Chicken over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Recipe Tips about Honey Garlic Chicken

If you want to elevate your experience with Honey Garlic Chicken, here are some versatile tips to consider:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the pan when sautéing the onions. Bell peppers or snap peas work beautifully!
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Serving Size: Adjust the recipe to suit your needs. It’s easy to double or halve the ingredients for larger or smaller gatherings.

Serving Ideas for Honey Garlic Chicken

When it comes to serving Honey Garlic Chicken, the options are as delightful as the dish itself. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Over Rice: Serve your Honey Garlic Chicken over a generous helping of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up that delicious sauce.
• With Sautéed Vegetables: For a nutritious twist, pair it with sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for added color and crunch.
• In Wraps: Use honey garlic chicken as a filling in wraps or sandwiches. Add lettuce and sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
• As Part of a Buffet: This dish is perfect for gatherings. Serve it as part of a buffet alongside rice, salads, and appetizers.
• With Noodles: Try serving this dish over cooked noodles, such as rice noodles or udon, to create a delicious Asian-inspired meal.
• For Special Occasions: The beautiful presentation makes it suitable for dinner parties and special occasions. Consider arranging it on a platter with garnishes for an elegant touch.
• Leftovers for Lunch: Pack leftovers for lunch the next day. The flavors develop even more, making it a delicious option for your midday meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that elevate any meal. It’s a comfort food classic that brings warmth and joy to your dining table. I encourage you to try this dish for your next dinner; it’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Honey Garlic Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that will satisfy your cravings for an easy weeknight dinner. With tender chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Make it tonight!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 42 minutes mins

Total Time 47 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons butter divided in half
• 1.5 tablespoons sesame oil or olive oil
• 0.5 cup onion finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons garlic minced
• 1.125 cups honey (1 cup plus 2 tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons chili sauce
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• Green onions chopped for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Cooked rice for serving

Equipment

• Skillet

Method

 

1. Sprinkle the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add half of the chicken and cook until it begins to turn golden brown on all sides, but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan onto a plate lined with a paper towel and keep warm. Drain the skillet. Using the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, repeat these steps for the remaining chicken. Heat the sesame oil in the same large skillet. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic. Sauté for one minute more. Add the honey, chili sauce, and soy sauce. Bring to a low boil and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the sauce has thickened and reduced enough to coat a spoon. Return the chicken to the pan, stirring to coat the chicken with the sauce, and simmer for 7 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. Serve the chicken over cooked rice. Sprinkle the chicken with the chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can find sesame oil in two places at the grocery store. It can be found in the baking aisle in the oil section. You can also find it with Asian foods as well. It is usually cheaper if you pick the oil that is in with the Asian foods.
• Tip 2: To keep this recipe at a quick prep and cooking time, you’ll want to be sure that your chicken is fully thawed before you begin cooking it.
• Tip 3: Keep your pan a bit cooler to not burn the garlic. You can always turn it up higher if needed, but burnt garlic will add a sour flavor to your recipe.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.