Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Sticky, tender, and incredibly flavorful, this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe features boneless chicken thighs enveloped in a delightful garlic, soy, and honey sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes. The sweet and savory combination makes it a standout option for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be made in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of honey and garlic creates a rich sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal that suits various dietary preferences.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade cooking with flavors that rival your favorite takeout spot.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters are sure to love this dish thanks to its delightful sweetness and savory notes.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan (skillet)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan (skillet): A large skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken thighs while allowing ample space for the sauce to reduce.
• Mixing bowl: This is essential for easily tossing the chicken with cornflour and seasoning before cooking.

Ingredients

Sticky tender boneless chicken thighs in a garlic, soy and honey sauce. Minimal ingredients, simple to prepare and ready in 20 minutes!

For the Chicken

• 8 chicken thighs (skinless and boneless)
• 2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves minced garlic

For the Sauce

• 110 g (1/3 cup) honey
• 80 ml (1/3 cup) chicken stock
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce

For Garnish

• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp chilli flakes

To Serve

• boiled rice

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a bowl. Add the cornflour (cornstarch), salt, and pepper. Toss until all pieces are fully coated.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over high heat until shimmering.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the coated chicken thighs to the pan. Cook one side until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes). Flip them over and cook for an additional 2 minutes on the other side.

Step 4: Add Butter and Garlic

Add unsalted butter to the pan. Let it melt completely, then stir in minced garlic. Reduce heat to medium to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine honey, chicken stock, rice vinegar, and light soy sauce. Mix well.

Step 6: Combine with Chicken

Pour the sauce into the pan with chicken. Increase heat to bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for about 4-5 minutes until thickened and chicken is cooked through.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley and chili flakes over your dish. Serve hot over boiled rice for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Serving honey garlic chicken is a delightful way to enjoy this savory dish. The sticky, tender chicken pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Over Boiled Rice

• A simple base that soaks up the sweet and savory sauce. Perfect for a filling meal.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Add color and nutrition by serving alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced plate.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve over rice noodles or egg noodles tossed in a light soy sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.

With a Fresh Salad

• Accompany with a crisp salad featuring cucumbers, carrots, and sesame dressing for a refreshing contrast.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a low-carb option, serve in fresh lettuce leaves topped with chopped peanuts and cilantro.

How to Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

To elevate your honey garlic chicken recipe, consider these helpful tips:

• Use skinless thighs: They stay juicy and absorb the flavors better than breast meat.
• Don’t rush the browning: Allow the chicken to sear properly; this adds depth to the flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify the amount of honey to suit your taste preference.
• Add extra garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to increase the minced garlic for more intense flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding ginger or black pepper for an added kick to the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Pairing your honey garlic chicken with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
   A fragrant rice option that complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly.

2. Garlic Fried Rice
   Enhance your meal with garlic fried rice; it’s flavorful and easy to prepare.

3. Stir-Fried Bok Choy
   Crisp bok choy adds crunch and balances out the dish with its mild flavor.

4. Peanut Noodles
   Creamy peanut noodles provide richness, making them an excellent match for the chicken’s sweetness.

5. Crispy Spring Rolls
   These add texture and are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce from your dish.

6. Asian Slaw
   A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness and color.

7. Sautéed Snap Peas
   Quick-cooked snap peas offer a sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the dish.

8. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup adds comforting warmth and umami notes to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing the Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the marination: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow it to soak in the cornflour, salt, and pepper for at least 10 minutes.
• Using high heat too early: Cooking on high heat from the start can burn the garlic. Begin with medium heat once you add the garlic to avoid this issue.
• Not monitoring sauce thickness: Ignoring the sauce while it simmers can result in an overly thin or burnt sauce. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally until thickened.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken thighs in one pan can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary for optimal results.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Omitting parsley or other fresh herbs loses flavor and color. Always add fresh herbs right before serving for a burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best taste.

Freezing Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking every minute until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe that might help you.

What makes this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe special?

This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and garlic, creating an irresistible dish.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts. Just ensure they are cooked through as they may require slightly less time compared to thighs.

How can I customize this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe holds up well in the fridge and can be easily reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly delicious. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something comforting yet flavorful. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the sweetness level. Try it out today!