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Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

This Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness, making it an instant favorite for dinner. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back to this easy, mouthwatering recipe! Enjoy!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4

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.