Honey Garlic Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy. The combination of honey and soy sauce gives the chicken a rich glaze, while the garlic adds depth and warmth. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s simple to prepare, yet feels like a special treat, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. The sticky, caramelized glaze on the chicken is absolutely irresistible and makes every bite delicious!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free version)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added tang)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thicker sauce)

Directions

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. If using chicken thighs, season the same way.

2. Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts (or thighs) to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Making the Honey Garlic Sauce:

1. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

2. Add the liquids: Stir in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), and ginger (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

Glazing the Chicken:

1. Return the chicken: Once the sauce is ready, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to coat it evenly and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the sauce.

2. Serve: Once the chicken is fully coated with the sauce and the glaze has thickened to your liking, remove from the heat.

Serving:

Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken over rice, alongside roasted vegetables, or with a fresh salad. You can also garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or cilantro for extra flavor and color.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for some heat.

• Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in or skin-on chicken thighs for extra flavor and crispiness.

• Add Veggies: Add bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking to create a one-pan meal.

• Honey Mustard Sauce: Add more Dijon mustard to the sauce for a tangy honey mustard twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken with the sauce for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the skillet over low heat until warmed through.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this recipe, and they add more flavor and moisture to the dish. You can use bone-in or boneless thighs, but if using bone-in, make sure to cook them longer.

Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute the honey with maple syrup, agave, or even brown sugar if you prefer a different sweetness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and the sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them just before serving to keep the chicken moist and coated with the sauce.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious dish that brings together sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors in a sticky, caramelized sauce. The tender chicken, coated in the rich honey garlic glaze, creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re serving it with rice, veggies, or in a sandwich, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Simple to make, full of flavor, and always crowd-pleasing, Honey Garlic Chicken is a recipe you’ll return to again and again!

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