Honey Garlic Chicken: A Perfect Beginner-Friendly Recipe
If you love that irresistible sweet, savory, and garlicky combo, this Honey Garlic Chicken will be your new obsession! 🍗🔥 Caramelized honey meets fragrant garlic in a rich, glossy sauce that clings to every bite of juicy chicken. It’s the perfect dish for beginners—minimal effort, maximum flavor! Just a handful of pantry staples and 20 minutes stand between you and a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies for the ultimate comfort food experience!
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- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work well. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner.
- Honey: This provides natural sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a deep, aromatic flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for better control over salt levels.
- Olive Oil: Used for pan-searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- Ginger (Optional): Freshly grated ginger adds a subtle spice and warmth.
- Cornstarch (Optional): If a thicker sauce is preferred, this helps with consistency.
- Salt and Pepper: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Green Onions (Optional): Adds a fresh, mildly spicy garnish.
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it cook evenly and develop a golden crust. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for six to eight minutes per side until golden brown. The key is to let it cook undisturbed so it develops a nice crust.
If unsure whether the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C) internally. If a thermometer is unavailable, cut into the thickest part—if the juices run clear, it is ready.
Step 3: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
While the chicken cooks, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger in a small bowl. Stir well until combined.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside. Lower the heat to medium-low and pour the honey garlic mixture into the pan. Let it simmer for two to three minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly.
If the sauce is too thin, mix one teaspoon of cornstarch with one tablespoon of water, then stir it into the sauce to thicken.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Return the chicken to the pan and toss it in the sauce until fully coated. Let it cook for another one to two minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve warm with favorite sides.
Notes
Common Mistakes and Fixes
If the chicken sticks to the pan, ensure the pan is hot before adding oil and chicken. Avoid moving the chicken too soon—it will naturally release when ready.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.
If the garlic burns, reduce the heat and add the sauce sooner to prevent bitterness.
Efficient Kitchen Tips
Pre-mince garlic or use a garlic press for faster prep.
Measure ingredients ahead of time to make cooking stress-free.
Clean as you go to keep the workspace organized.