Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces; 1 egg, lightly beaten; ½ cup cornstarch; 2 tablespoons neutral oil (vegetable or peanut); ⅓ cup honey; 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped; ⅓ cup chicken broth (or water); 1 tablespoon vinegar (rice, apple cider, or white); 1 tablespoon soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free); Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)

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If you are craving a dish that brilliantly balances sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors with crispy, tender chicken, then this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It is a delightful meal where golden pieces of chicken are coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce, making each bite irresistibly comforting. What’s even better is that this recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it an absolute lifesaver on busy weeknights without sacrificing any of that incredible flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal bowl filled with small pieces of raw chicken coated in a light yellow marinade, showing a mix of smooth and slightly bumpy textures. Behind the bowl, there are two white bowls; one contains a block of butter while the other has a dark sauce with visible red and white chili flakes floating on top. Below the metal bowl, a white bowl contains fresh green peas. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating a flavorful and perfectly textured dish. From the punchy garlic to the sticky sweetness of honey, every element adds its own magic to the final result.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1 lb): Offers tender, juicy pieces perfect for quick cooking.
Egg (1, lightly beaten): Helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken for that irresistible crisp.
Cornstarch (½ cup): Ensures a delightfully crispy exterior when frying the chicken.
Neutral oil (2 tablespoons): Vegetable or peanut oil prevents sticking and helps achieve a golden crust.
Honey (⅓ cup): Brings natural sweetness to balance the garlic and soy sauce.
Garlic (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Adds aromatic, savory depth to the sauce.
Chicken broth (⅓ cup): Or water to create a flavorful base for the sauce.
Vinegar (1 tablespoon): Rice, apple cider, or white vinegar gives the sauce a bright tanginess.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami and saltiness, with tamari as a gluten-free option.
Red pepper flakes (pinch, optional): For a subtle kick that elevates the sauce.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce for that perfect sticky coating.
Butter (1 tablespoon, optional): Stirred in at the end for added richness and a glossy finish.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless chicken into bite-size pieces so they cook evenly and quickly. Toss the chicken with the lightly beaten egg, which acts as glue for the cornstarch coating. Then, gently toss the chicken in the cornstarch until each piece is just coated, setting the stage for that perfect crispy texture.

Step 2: Crisp the Chicken

Heat your oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to keep the pieces crispy. Cook each side for about 2 to 4 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp. This quick sear locks in the juices while creating a beautifully crunchy exterior.

Step 3: Mix the Honey Garlic Sauce

While your chicken cooks, whisk together the sauce ingredients—honey, finely chopped garlic, chicken broth, vinegar, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and the tablespoon of cornstarch in a bowl. This mixture will turn into the luscious glaze that makes this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe truly special.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Pour the sauce over the browned chicken in the pan. Bring it to a gentle boil and then lower the heat to a simmer. The sauce will begin to thicken, bubbling up and beautifully coating every crispy piece of chicken with its sticky, shiny goodness. This usually takes about a minute and is the moment when all the flavors meld together harmoniously.

Step 5: Finish with Butter

For an optional but highly recommended touch, stir in a tablespoon of butter. It melts into the sauce, giving it that silky texture and rich flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. Once glossy and thickened to your liking, your Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

A white plate with a layer of white rice that looks soft and fluffy, covering the whole plate. On top of the rice, there is a second layer of golden-brown pieces of chicken covered in shiny, sticky orange sauce. The chicken pieces have small green herb bits sprinkled over them, along with tiny red chili flakes adding color contrast. The sauce looks thick and glossy, coating each chicken piece evenly. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes really takes this dish to the next level. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or freshly sliced green onions on top for an added crunch and a burst of color. These simple touches provide texture contrast and a delightful visual appeal that makes dinner feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic steamed white rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly. For a healthier option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside sautéed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. These sides add freshness and a nutrient boost that balances the richness of the honey garlic sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to mix things up, try stirring in a teaspoon of sesame oil or chili sauce into the sauce before serving. This tweak adds a smoky or spicy layer that complements the sweet garlic base beautifully. You can also pile the chicken on top of a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or even use it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a fun, hand-held version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe keeps really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The chicken retains its flavor, and the sauce thickens further, making it just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. This prevents the chicken from getting too soggy and preserves the sauce’s integrity. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This method revives the crispiness of the chicken and warms the sauce without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work wonderfully for this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, while breasts are leaner — choose according to your preference.

Is there a gluten-free option for the soy sauce?

Yes, tamari is a fantastic gluten-free substitute that still provides that rich umami flavor critical to the dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can definitely swap the chicken for tofu or cauliflower florets. Just adjust cook times accordingly and make sure to crisp up your substitute well before adding the sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Adding more red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce into the sauce mix will bring in the heat without overpowering the balanced flavors.

Is it necessary to use butter in the sauce?

The butter is optional but highly recommended because it adds a luscious richness and helps the sauce shine. However, the sauce will still taste fantastic without it.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is a true weeknight winner that combines ease, speed, and flavor like few dishes can. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself turning to this comforting, crispy, and sweet-savory meal over and over. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a great way to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table.