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