Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: Requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Versatile: Works with chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks.
• Family-friendly: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to all ages.
• Meal prep friendly: Can be stored and reheated for future meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs or breasts
• Garlic
• Honey
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Olive oil or vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Combine honey, soy sauce, and vinegar in a bowl, then pour into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the sauce. Cover and cook on low heat until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add it to the skillet to thicken the sauce.
7. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as rice or vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets.
• Slow cooker: Prepare the sauce and pour it over raw chicken in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they may require less cooking time.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?

Serve it with steamed rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes and a side of vegetables.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Reheat and combine them before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy unless you add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic?

Absolutely! Finely chop or crush fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor.

What can I substitute for cornstarch?

You can use arrowroot powder or flour as a thickening agent.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce isn’t thick enough, add more cornstarch slurry (1 part cornstarch to 2 parts water).

Can I use honey alternatives?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey.

How long does the sauce take to thicken?

The sauce typically thickens within 2-3 minutes after adding the cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful recipe that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning meals in advance, this dish will become a family favorite. Try it with your preferred variations and enjoy a versatile meal that’s as delicious as it is convenient.

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