Honey Garlic Chicken

One of the dishes that always brings warmth to our dinner table is Honey Garlic Chicken. I still remember the first time I made it; the sweet aroma wafted through the kitchen, tempting everyone to peel themselves away from their devices and come for a taste. It was a chilly evening, and the thought of indulging in tender chicken coated in a sticky, flavor-packed sauce was irresistible. With just a few simple ingredients, I managed to whip up a meal that felt truly special, yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Each bite was a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making it an instant favorite not only for my family but for guests too. The best part? It can be customized with your favorite sides, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy meal at home, Honey Garlic Chicken delivers on all fronts.

Essential Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken

Using quality ingredients makes all the difference in this dish. The combination of chicken, honey, soy sauce, and garlic works harmoniously to create an irresistible flavor profile. Each component plays a crucial role, elevating the dish to something special.

• Chicken breast: 2 to 2½ lbs, cut into 1-inch pieces. This lean protein serves as the main ingredient, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
• Corn starch: ½ cup and 2 tablespoons. Used for coating the chicken, it adds a crispy texture when sautéed.
• Filtered water: 1 cup. Helps create the sauce’s base, providing the right consistency.
• Low sodium soy sauce: ⅓ cup. This adds umami depth; opting for low sodium keeps the dish healthier.
• Honey: ⅓ cup, or more to taste. The sweet star of this dish, balancing the savory soy and garlic flavors.
• Sriracha sauce: 1 to 2 tablespoons, added for spice. Adjust according to your heat preference; it brings a delightful kick!
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Essential for that aromatic base that permeates the dish.
• Cold water: 2 tablespoons. Used to create a cornstarch slurry that thickens the sauce.
• Sesame seeds and chives: optional garnishes that add a hint of color and flavor.

Making Honey Garlic Chicken

Creating Honey Garlic Chicken is a fun adventure in the kitchen. You’ll love how simple it is to put together, and the aroma will fill your home with warmth. Let’s get started!

1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, soy sauce, honey, Sriracha, and garlic. Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Watch as the ingredients meld together, creating a sweet and savory sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.

2. In a small dish, stir together cornstarch and cold water until dissolved. This step is crucial as it will help thicken your sauce. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan and stir until the sauce thickens. You’ll notice it becoming glossy and sticky.

3. Add the chicken pieces into a large zip-top bag and sprinkle the top with cornstarch. Seal the bag and toss the chicken inside until evenly coated. This coating is what will give the chicken a lovely crispy texture when cooked.

4. Set a large non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly coat the bottom with oil. Add the chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté for a few minutes on each side until cooked through. The chicken should turn golden brown and be cooked all the way to the center.

5. Avoid crowding the pan to ensure even cooking. If necessary, work in batches or use two skillets to speed up the process. Each piece of chicken deserves its time to shine!

6. Once the chicken is cooked, turn off the heat. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat evenly. The sauce will cling to the chicken pieces, making them look even more appetizing.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if needed. This is the perfect moment to adjust the flavors to your liking.

8. Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken over white rice, if desired. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite extraordinary.

9. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for that final touch. This not only adds flavor but makes the dish visually appealing.

Variations to Try

There are so many delicious ways to put your own spin on Honey Garlic Chicken. Here are some exciting variations to consider:

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some colorful veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli while sautéing the chicken to add nutrition and color to your dish.
• Use Different Proteins: Switch things up by using chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein will absorb the flavors differently, offering a unique experience.
• Experiment with Honey: Try different types of honey, such as wildflower or clover, to see how they impact the flavor profile of your dish.
• Serve with Noodles: Instead of rice, serve your honey garlic chicken over noodles for a different texture and flavor. Asian noodles, like udon or rice noodles, work great!
• Make it a Salad: Let the chicken cool and toss it into a salad with mixed greens and a light dressing for a fresh and healthy meal.
• Storage: Store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked Honey Garlic Chicken in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for the best taste.

What Complements This Honey Garlic Chicken

When serving Honey Garlic Chicken, the right accompaniments can elevate the experience to new heights. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Steamed Rice: Fluffy white rice or jasmine rice pairs perfectly, soaks up the sauce, and balances the sweetness.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of broccoli, carrots, and snap peas adds crunch and nutrition, making your meal well-rounded.
• Asian Noodles: Serve over lo mein or soba noodles for a heartier dish that still captures the essence of the flavors.
• Fresh Salad: A light cucumber or cabbage salad dressed with rice vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish works wonderfully for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even meal prepping for lunch throughout the week.
• Seasonal Pairings: During the summer, add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fragrant touch. In fall, consider roasted squash on the side.

FAQ

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings together flavors and aromas that can make any meal special. It’s simple, quick, and a guaranteed hit for family dinners or entertaining friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try tonight. You won’t regret it!

Honey Garlic Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Honey Garlic Chicken offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Make it tonight for a delightful meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 5 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 to 2½ lbs chicken breast cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ cup corn starch
• 1 cup filtered water
• ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce or gluten-free soy sauce
• ⅓ cup honey or more to taste
• 1 to 2 Tbsp Sriracha sauce or added to desired spice level
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 Tbsp corn starch
• 2 Tbsp cold water

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan
• Food Processor
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, soy sauce, honey, Sriracha, and garlic. Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
2. In a small dish, stir together cornstarch and cold water until dissolved. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan and stir until the sauce thickens. Reduce the heat to low.
3. Add the chicken pieces into a large zip-top bag and sprinkle the top with cornstarch. Seal the bag and toss the chicken inside until evenly coated with cornstarch.
4. Set a large non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly coat the bottom with oil. Add the chicken in a single layer and sauté for a few minutes on each side until cooked through. Avoid crowding the pan and cook in batches or use two skillets to speed up the process.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, turn off the heat. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if needed.
6. Serve over white rice, if desired, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Notes

• For a Spicy Stir Fry: With 1 Tbsp of Sriracha sauce, the spiciness is almost undetectable and won’t be spicy. For a spicier sauce, add more Sriracha and even a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce if desired.
• Protein Variations: It’s easy to use the sauce for a variety of stir fry recipes and on different proteins such as: chicken tenders, chicken thighs or wings, shrimp or fish, or tofu “steaks” for a vegetarian option.

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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.