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Close-up shot of glistening Honey Garlic Chicken coated in a sticky sauce, ready to be served as the featured image for the recipe article.

Honey Garlic Chicken

This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe delivers a perfectly balanced sweet and savory flavor with tender, juicy chicken. The chicken is marinated, seared, and then coated in a delicious honey garlic sauce, ensuring a beautiful glaze and irresistible taste. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for an extra touch of freshness.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 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 soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Chopped green onions for garnish
  • Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Large skillet or wok
  • whisk
  • spatula
  • Serving plate

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, ketchup, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Simmer and Thicken: Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet with the garlic. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Combine and Coat: Add the seared chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the honey garlic sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to the chicken and glaze it beautifully.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality honey and soy sauce. To prevent the garlic from burning, keep the heat at medium and watch it carefully. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also add a splash of sesame oil to the sauce for extra flavor.