There’s something magical about the combination of honey and garlic. The rich sweetness of honey perfectly balances the savory umami of garlic, creating a sauce that is both sticky and flavorful. When paired with tender, juicy chicken, this dish becomes an absolute comfort food classic. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, honey garlic chicken is always a winning choice. Plus, it’s made with simple pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime you crave something delicious.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can use chicken thighs for their extra juiciness, or opt for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut. The sauce caramelizes beautifully as it cooks, coating each piece of chicken in a glossy, flavorful glaze. The addition of soy sauce and a touch of butter gives it an extra depth of flavor, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
If you love takeout-style meals but want something healthier and homemade, this honey garlic chicken recipe is perfect for you. Unlike store-bought sauces that are often loaded with preservatives and excess sugar, this homemade version lets you control the ingredients. It’s naturally sweetened with honey, and the garlic adds a fragrant, mouthwatering aroma that will have your kitchen smelling amazing. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!
So, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this honey garlic chicken recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring this sweet and savory delight to your table!
Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch optional, for thickening
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 teaspoons water, then stir it into the sauce. Cook for another minute until thickened.
- Combine & Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until fully glazed. Stir in butter for a silky finish.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.
- Adjust sweetness by adding a little more or less honey depending on your taste.
- If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes.
- Serve with steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or even mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
