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Honey Garlic Chicken: The Ultimate Recipe for Deliciousness

Quick and easy Honey Garlic Chicken with tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions
  • Cooked white rice, brown rice, or quinoa
  • Steamed broccoli, green beans, or other vegetables

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Thicken the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
  5. Simmer the Sauce: Pour the honey garlic sauce into the same skillet you used to cook the chicken. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
  6. Add Cornstarch Slurry: Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency (about 1-2 minutes).
  7. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the honey garlic sauce. Gently toss to coat evenly.
  8. Heat Through: Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and the sauce to cling to the chicken.
  9. Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately over cooked rice, quinoa, or your favorite side dish.

Notes

  • Chicken Options: Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
  • Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes to your preference.
  • Sweetness: Reduce honey for a less sweet sauce.
  • Ginger: Add 1 teaspoon of grated ginger to the sauce.
  • Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
  • Vegetables: Add bell peppers, onions, or carrots before the sauce.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve over noodles or in lettuce wraps.