Description
Honey Garlic Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that combines sweet honey with savory garlic and soy sauce. This flavorful, quick-to-make recipe is perfect for busy nights, and can be served with rice, vegetables, or noodles. Enjoy a mouthwatering glaze on perfectly seared chicken breasts or thighs, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 5–6 cloves garlic, minced (or 2 teaspoons garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing the chicken)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger, optional)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
- ¼ cup water (for cornstarch slurry)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and ginger (if using) for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and stir to combine.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s coated in the sauce. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If desired, thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch with water and adding it to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha.
- For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to make this a one-pan meal.
- For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.