Are you craving something sweet, savory, and utterly delicious? This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is a perfect choice for a mouthwatering meal that combines tender chicken with a flavorful honey garlic sauce. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
To prepare this Honey Garlic Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken: 4 pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Honey: 1/3 cup
- Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
- Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 1 tablespoon
- Green Onions: Chopped, for garnish
- Sesame Seeds: For garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-excessive warmth. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Take out and set aside the chicken from the skillet.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped garlic and fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, add the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the skillet. Stir the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until fully combined. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the sauce and stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Chicken with Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it with the thickened honey garlic sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked and coated in the sauce, remove it from the heat. Before serving, garnish with chopped green onion and sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a side of roasted vegetables. You can also serve it over noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal. The rich and sticky sauce is perfect for drizzling over your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender. However, chicken breasts will work well if you prefer a leaner option.
- Watch the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it while sautéing. Burnt garlic can add a bitter taste to the sauce.
- Adjust Sweetness: The amount of honey can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey slightly or add a bit more soy sauce to balance the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken with bones for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Be certain the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
Q2: How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat them together when ready to serve.
Q4: Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, coconut aminos is a great alternative that is gluten-free and slightly sweeter.
Q5: Can I freeze Honey Garlic Chicken?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer. Heat it in a skillet over medium heat until completely warm.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy!
Also Try: Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe
