Honey Garlic Chicken
Tender chicken pieces pan-fried to perfection and coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic sauce. A super quick and delicious weeknight dinner that the whole family will love, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken cubes, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss well until each piece of chicken is evenly coated. This coating helps create a slightly crispy exterior.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the chicken: Heat 1.5 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- 3
Create the sauce: Reduce the heat to medium
- a.Add the remaining 0.5 tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer and thicken the sauce: Pour the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
- 5
Combine and serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce
- a.Toss gently for 1-2 minutes until all the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated in the glossy honey garlic sauce. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or with your favorite vegetables.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crispy chicken, double dredge: toss in cornstarch, then in a beaten egg, then back in cornstarch before frying.
- 2Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly juicy results.
- 3Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. This ensures it pan-fries to a golden brown instead of steaming.
- 4If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a tablespoon of warm water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- 5For a deeper flavor, add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to the sauce along with the honey and soy sauce.
- 6Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness of the final dish.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a finely chopped red chili to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Honey Garlic ShrimpHoney Garlic Shrimp
Substitute the chicken with 1.5 lbs of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then proceed with the sauce.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Stir-fry vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas in the skillet after cooking the chicken. Remove them, make the sauce, and then add both the chicken and vegetables back in.
Gluten Free VersionGluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is a high-quality lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Immune-Boosting Properties
Garlic contains compounds like allicin, which are known for their potential to boost the immune system and provide antioxidant benefits.
Natural Energy Source
Honey provides a quick source of natural carbohydrates, which the body uses for energy, making this a satisfying and energizing meal.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Honey Garlic Chicken contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. This estimate does not include side dishes like rice or vegetables.