Honey Garlic Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Recipe You’ll Love

When you think of a perfect dinner that’s both easy and bursting with flavor, honey garlic chicken should come to mind. This dish strikes the ideal balance between sweet and savory, with tender chicken thighs coated in a sticky, garlicky glaze that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful dish that’s bound to become a regular at your dinner table.

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken

Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken thighs (skinless, boneless)	8 pieces
Cornflour (cornstarch)	2 tbsp
Salt	½ tsp
Pepper	½ tsp
Vegetable oil	2 tbsp
Unsalted butter	1 tbsp
Garlic (minced)	4 cloves
Honey	110 g (1/3 cup)
Chicken stock	80 ml (1/3 cup)
Rice vinegar	1 tbsp
Light soy sauce	1 tbsp
Fresh parsley (finely chopped)	1 tbsp
Chili flakes	½ tsp
Boiled rice (to serve)	As desired

Why Honey Garlic Chicken Is a Must-Try

• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Using pantry staples like honey, garlic, and soy sauce, this dish delivers a rich, unforgettable taste.
• Quick to Make: It takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, with noodles, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will adore its sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel.
• In a large bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornflour, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Toss the chicken thighs in the mixture until evenly coated.

2. Sear the Chicken

• Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken thighs and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

• Reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Stir in 110 g (1/3 cup) of honey, 80 ml (1/3 cup) of chicken stock, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce. Mix well and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.

4. Simmer the Chicken

• Return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chicken simmer for 10 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley and chili flakes.
• Serve the chicken over a bed of boiled rice, drizzling extra sauce on top for maximum flavor.

Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh garlic and parsley elevate the flavor of the dish. Pre-minced garlic or dried parsley can work, but they won’t deliver the same punch.

2. Balance the Sweetness

• If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey slightly and add an extra splash of rice vinegar for a tangier flavor.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

• Sear the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.

4. Adjust the Spice Level

• If you enjoy heat, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

5. Thickening the Sauce

• For a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and stir it into the sauce during the simmering stage.

Serving Suggestions

Honey garlic chicken is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Rice: Serve over steamed or fried rice to soak up the sauce.
• Vegetables: Pair with sautéed green beans, steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots.
• Noodles: Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked noodles for a quick stir-fry.
• Bread: Use crusty bread to scoop up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (serves 4):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	390
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fat	18g
Fiber	1g

Flavor Variations to Try

1. Asian-Inspired Twist

• Add a teaspoon of sesame oil to the sauce for a nutty, aromatic flavor.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

2. Citrus Boost

• Squeeze fresh lemon or orange juice into the sauce for a bright, zesty kick.

3. Vegetable-Loaded Version

• Stir in bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini during the simmering stage for added color and texture.

4. Low-Carb Option

• Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to make it keto-friendly.

5. Extra Spicy Kick

• Add diced fresh chilies or a splash of hot sauce for a spicier version.

FAQs About Honey Garlic Chicken

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well too. Make sure to adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster than thighs.

2. How long does honey garlic chicken last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, honey garlic chicken freezes beautifully. Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative or use additional oil instead.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your cornflour is labeled gluten-free.

6. What can I substitute for rice vinegar?
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar works as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Honey Garlic Chicken

Honey garlic chicken is a dish that’s both simple and extraordinary. Its sweet and savory flavors, tender chicken, and versatile serving options make it a recipe you’ll want to cook again and again. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a dinner party, or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers on every front.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients and try this recipe tonight—you won’t be disappointed.

Print