If you are on the hunt for a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory with tender chicken pieces coated in a luscious honey garlic glaze that clings deliciously with every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe comes together quickly and effortlessly, turning simple ingredients into something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in delivering the authentic taste and texture of this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe. From the crispy coating to the glossy glaze, you’ll appreciate how these familiar pantry staples combine to create magic.
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts: Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful; breasts are leaner but still tender when cooked just right.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: This creates a crispy outer layer that contrasts perfectly with the tender inside.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth to the coating.
- Oil for frying: Essential for achieving that golden, irresistible crust.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic gives the sauce its punchy, aromatic foundation.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Brings a rich, savory depth and a hint of umami.
- 1/3 cup honey: The heart of the glaze, it offers natural sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish.
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a mild tang and brightens the flavor.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle heat to complement the sweet and savory notes.
- Sesame seeds and chopped parsley: These garnishes add a lovely crunch and fresh pop of color.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
Start by tossing your bite-sized chicken pieces in cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until they’re evenly covered. This coating is the secret to that irresistible crispy exterior which holds the glaze beautifully.
Step 2: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the chicken in batches. Keeping the chicken in smaller portions ensures each piece cooks evenly and develops a gorgeous golden crust without steaming.
Step 3: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
While the chicken cooks, whisk together garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just enough to coat the chicken.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Add the golden chicken back into the saucepan and toss it gently to ensure every piece is drenched in that sticky, luscious glaze. Simmer for another minute so the honey garlic sauce adheres perfectly to each bite.
Step 5: Garnish and Get Ready to Eat
Finish by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds and fresh parsley over the top. These small touches add texture and a burst of freshness that make the entire dish pop.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding toasted sesame seeds brings a delicate, nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken, while freshly chopped parsley gives a bright, herbal lift that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up every drop of sauce. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the rich glaze.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the chicken over a bed of baby spinach or wilted bok choy for a pop of color and extra nutrients. For a casual twist, tuck it into soft tortillas with a drizzle of creamy sauce for delicious chicken wraps.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce keeps the chicken moist, but it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a short time frame.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked honey garlic chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of water to loosen the sauce and avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook them since they can dry out faster than thighs.
Is there a substitution for cornstarch?
You can use all-purpose flour if you don’t have cornstarch, but cornstarch yields a lighter, crispier coating that’s ideal for this recipe.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe?
The recipe is mildly spiced if you include the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust or omit them to suit your preference for heat.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely. The honey garlic sauce keeps well in the fridge for a few days and can be reheated gently before tossing with freshly cooked chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is such a joyful blend of flavors and textures that it’s bound to become a staple in your cooking rotation. It’s quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious—just like sharing a homemade meal with people you love. Give it a try and watch it steal the show at your next dinner!
Print
Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe features tender chicken pieces fried to golden perfection and tossed in a sticky, flavorful honey garlic glaze. With a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice, it’s an easy and delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated, ensuring a crispy texture when fried.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each piece until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the mixture over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat them. Simmer together for another minute to let the glaze adhere well to the chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the glazed chicken with sesame seeds and chopped parsley. Serve immediately over rice or alongside your preferred side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat; breasts work well too for a leaner option.
- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level or omit entirely for a milder dish.
- Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
