Honey Garlic Chicken

This Honey Garlic Chicken is tender, juicy, and coated in a sweet, savory, and garlicky sauce that’s better than takeout. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Honey Garlic Sauce

⅓ cup (80 ml) honey
¼ cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp cold water

Garnish

2 green onions, sliced
1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

Pat the chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Toss the chicken with 2 tablespoons cornstarch until evenly coated.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate.
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, rice vinegar, ginger, ketchup, and sesame oil.
Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it into the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes, until thickened.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
Cook for another 2 minutes, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips

Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but chicken breasts work well too.
Fresh garlic and ginger give the best flavor.
Add broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a complete one-pan meal.
For a spicy version, add 1 teaspoon sriracha or ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Steamed jasmine rice
Brown rice
Fried rice
Noodles
Cauliflower rice
Steamed broccoli

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 390 calories per serving