Recipe Ideas

honey garlic chicken

If you’re on the hunt for a mouth-watering dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, then honey Garlic Chicken is the recipe for you. It’s a favorite in our house, where honey and garlic come together to create a tantalizing sauce that transforms simple chicken thighs into a culinary delight.

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honey garlic chicken Final Dish Presentation

Growing up, my grandmother always had a way of making even the simplest meals feel special. I remember the first time she taught me how to make this dish. The honey was from a local beekeeper and the garlic, fresh from her garden. Whenever I make this recipe, I am taken back to those cherished moments spent in her country kitchen, filled with warmth, love, and the irresistible aroma of honey and garlic caramelizing perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This honey garlic Chicken Recipe is not just another poultry dish — it’s an experience. Quick and easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, it requires minimal ingredients and time. Bursting with flavor: The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of lime creates a sauce that is both sweet and tangy. Kid-friendly: Even the fussiest eaters will be captivated by the sticky, delicious coating on the chicken. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients Notes

To make this recipe, you will need chicken thighs, honey, fresh garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, and olive oil. Sourcing high-quality, local honey can enhance the depth of flavor. If you’re looking to cut down on sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

honey garlic chicken ingredients

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Prepare the chicken: Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them to sear properly.

Step 2

Create the sauce: In a bowl, mix together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and lime juice. Adjust the level of sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or lime juice as desired.

Step 3

Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until they are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4

Add the sauce: Pour the Honey Garlic sauce over the chicken. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, basting the chicken with the sauce every few minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5

Finish and serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the heat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Storage Options

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For freezing, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet over low heat to preserve moisture and flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari. Vegetarians can replace chicken with cauliflower steaks or firm tofu. For a citrus twist, try adding some orange zest to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a crisp green salad. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or as an impressive dish when entertaining guests. Enhance the dining experience with a side of roasted vegetables or buttery Mashed Potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can. However, be mindful that chicken breasts cook faster. To ensure they remain tender, reduce the cooking time by a few minutes and check for doneness often.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use an instant-read thermometer to verify this. Alternatively, make a small cut in the thickest part of the thigh to check if the juices run clear, indicating it’s cooked.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic? If fresh garlic is unavailable, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove. While fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor, garlic powder will still give you the essence needed for this dish.

honey garlic chicken Final Dish Presentation

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the honey garlic sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time. Simply whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and lime juice and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. When ready to cook, just pour the pre-made sauce over the chicken as instructed in the recipe.

What are some good substitutions if I don’t have soy sauce?
If you don’t have soy sauce, you can substitute it with tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a similar flavor profile. Use a 1:1 ratio for either substitution. If you’re looking for a slightly different flavor, you can also use Worcestershire sauce, but be mindful that it has a more complex taste and you may want to adjust the honey or lime juice to balance it.

How can I tell when the honey garlic chicken thighs are perfectly cooked?
The chicken thighs are perfectly cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which you can verify with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part. Visually, the chicken should be cooked through, with no pink remaining. The juices should run clear when you pierce the thigh with a fork or knife. The sauce should be thick and glossy, clinging to the chicken.

Can I double or triple this honey garlic chicken recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe. If doubling, you may need to use a larger skillet or cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. For tripling, consider using two skillets or a large roasting pan. Increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is cooked through, and keep a close eye on the sauce to prevent it from burning. Adjust the amount of ingredients proportionally.

Are there any significant nutritional benefits from eating honey garlic chicken?
This dish provides a good source of protein from the chicken thighs, essential for muscle building and repair. Garlic offers potential immune-boosting properties due to its allicin content. The honey provides natural sugars for energy, and the lime juice adds Vitamin C. Choose high-quality, local honey to maximize potential antioxidant benefits.

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honey garlic chicken

How to Make the Best Honey Garlic Chicken: 7 Juicy Tips!

This scrumptious Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is perfect for any dinner. It's a combination of sweet and savory flavors with a gentle hint of heat.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 cup cornstarch plus 2 tablespoons, divided
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium
  • 0.5 cup honey
  • 1 tsp chili flakes adjust for spice preference
  • 3 tbsp chopped green onions for garnish
  • Rice for serving
  • Steamed vegetables for serving

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • In a medium bowl, combine chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Whisk until well mixed.
  • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with 1/4 cup cornstarch.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt butter, add garlic, and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.
  • Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until chicken is thoroughly cooked.
  • Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm over rice with a side of your choice of steamed vegetables.

Notes

This dish is a fantastic centerpiece for a family meal or dinner party, offering a balance of nutrition and irresistible flavor!

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