why make this recipe
Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the richness of honey and garlic with tender chicken. It’s easy to make and can be served for a family dinner or special occasions. This recipe is appealing because it balances sweetness and savoriness, creating a flavor profile that pleases everyone. Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice, making it a complete meal.
how to make Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients:
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, plus more for searing
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 110g (1/3 cup) honey
- 80ml (1/3 cup) chicken stock
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- ½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 4 tbsp cold water (for slurry)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- Cooked rice, for serving
Directions:
Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, drizzle chicken with 2 tbsp vegetable oil, then sprinkle with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Set aside.
Craft the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a liquid measuring cup or bowl, combine minced garlic, 110g honey, 80ml chicken stock, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, and optional ½ tsp chilli flakes. Whisk until well combined. In a separate small bowl, whisk 2 tbsp cornstarch with 4 tbsp cold water until smooth to form a slurry. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet (non-stick or cast iron) over medium-high heat with additional vegetable oil and 1 tbsp unsalted butter. Sear chicken in batches without overcrowding the pan for 3-4 minutes per side, until deep golden-brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Transfer cooked chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
Glaze and Finish: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce into the skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously. Re-whisk the cornstarch slurry, then slowly pour it into the simmering sauce in a thin stream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze that coats the back of a spoon. Return all cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing gently but thoroughly to coat every piece in the sticky glaze. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
Serve: Transfer Honey Garlic Chicken to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish generously with finely chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately over cooked rice.
how to serve Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken
Serve this dish hot over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. You can also add some steamed vegetables or a fresh salad on the side for a well-rounded meal.
how to store Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals.
tips to make Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. This ensures even cooking and a nice golden-brown color.
- Adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference. You can also add more garlic for an extra kick.
- If you like it spicy, don’t skip the chili flakes!
variation
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, try adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet when you add the chicken for a colorful, nutritious addition.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, this recipe can work with chicken breasts, pork, or beef. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I serve with this dish?
Besides rice, you can serve it with quinoa, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Honey Garlic Chicken. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. It should be good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, drizzle chicken with 2 tbsp vegetable oil, then sprinkle with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Set aside.
- In a liquid measuring cup or bowl, combine minced garlic, honey, chicken stock, rice vinegar, light soy sauce, and optional chilli flakes. Whisk until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk cornstarch with cold water until smooth to form a slurry. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with additional vegetable oil and 1 tbsp unsalted butter. Sear chicken in batches without overcrowding the pan for 3-4 minutes per side, until deep golden-brown and cooked through.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce into the skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously.
- Re-whisk the cornstarch slurry, then slowly pour it into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.
- Return all cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece in the sticky glaze, and simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Transfer Honey Garlic Chicken to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately over cooked rice.