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Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken is pictured as the featured image for this recipe.

Easy Honey Garlic Chicken

This recipe delivers perfectly balanced honey garlic chicken, avoiding the common pitfalls of overly sticky or bitter sauces. By understanding the science behind the ingredients and following key techniques, you can achieve a delicious and consistently flavorful dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • paper towels
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Grater

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and then slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water), stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
  8. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened further.
  9. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
  10. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Notes

For a sweeter sauce, add more honey to taste. For a saltier sauce, add more soy sauce. To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Chicken breasts can be used, but thighs are recommended for a juicier result. Adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of spice. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.