Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with crispy, golden-brown chicken tossed in a rich, garlicky honey sauce. It's quick, easy, and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ½ cup cornstarch for coating
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- ⅓ cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water for thickening
Optional Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat dry and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss chicken in cornstarch, salt, and black pepper to coat evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the cooked chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Cook for another 1–2 minutes until well-glazed.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Notes
- Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free cornstarch.
- Baking Method: Instead of frying, bake chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Slow Cooker Version: Place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.