Sticky Sweet Honey Garlic Chicken Dinners Sorted
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever get that craving for something sweet and savory? Honestly, this delicious honey garlic chicken recipe is my go-to. It's got that perfect blend of sticky sweetness and garlicky goodness that just hits the spot.
Brief Overview
This dish, often inspired by classic Chinese honey garlic chicken flavors, is a global favourite. It's super easy to make, taking only about 35 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe yields four generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or a cheeky night in.
Main Benefits
Beyond the amazing taste, this recipe offers some decent protein from the chicken. This sticky honey garlic chicken recipe is just perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and comforting.
What makes it special? It's far tastier (and healthier) than any takeaway!
Level Up Your Chicken Game!
Fancy knocking up something seriously tasty without spending hours in the kitchen? You're in the right place! This delicious honey garlic chicken recipe is about to become your new best mate.
Think of it as a hug in a bowl, guaranteed to banish those hunger pangs.
The Heart of the Recipe
This easy honey garlic chicken dish isn’t just about chucking a load of ingredients together. It’s about creating a symphony of flavours.
The sweetness of the honey beautifully compliments the pungent garlic, creating a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.
I had this pan-fried honey garlic chicken with rice last week!
Why You'll Love It
Honestly, this recipe is a game changer. Not only is it incredibly easy to make even your nan could manage it but it also uses simple, everyday ingredients.
Perfect for those evenings when the fridge is looking a bit bare. Plus, it’s ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for a quick honey garlic chicken dinner after a long day.
The Magic is in the Sauce
The sauce is where the real magic happens in this best honey garlic chicken recipe . It's a blend of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a few other bits and bobs that come together to create this irresistibly delicious coating that you will want to drizzle on everything.
Trust me, you'll be licking the plate clean! It's great served as honey garlic chicken with rice .
Let's Talk Ingredients & Gear!
So, you wanna make the best honey garlic chicken recipe ever? Ace! Let's chat about what you'll need, like we're just catching up over a cuppa.
Honestly, getting the right ingredients makes ALL the difference. I remember once using some dodgy garlic... never again!
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
Here's the lowdown. You'll be needing:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed into 1 inch pieces. Opt for thighs, mate. They stay lovely and moist.
- 1 tbsp (15ml) of vegetable oil. Any neutral oil will do the trick.
- 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) each of salt and pepper. Seasoning is key!
For that glorious honey garlic sauce :
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of honey. Go for a good quality one! You know, something that actually tastes of honey, not just sugar.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of low-sodium soy sauce. Trust me on this, low sodium is your friend. No one wants a salt bomb!
- 2 tbsp (30ml) of rice vinegar. Apple cider vinegar works too, in a pinch.
- 2 tbsp (30ml) of ketchup. Yeah, ketchup! Don't judge, it adds a lovely tang.
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced. And when I say minced, I mean minced . About 1 tbsp . Fresh is always best, obvs.
- 1 tsp (5ml) of minced ginger. Same deal as the garlic, fresh is fab.
- 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) of red pepper flakes. Optional, if you fancy a sticky honey garlic chicken recipe with a bit of a kick.
- 1 tbsp (15ml) of cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp (30ml) of water. This is the secret to that lovely, glossy sauce.
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Power!
Garlic and ginger are your best mates here. Don't skimp! A little red pepper flake can also take your easy honey garlic chicken to another level.
Seriously, it is the best. I will say, this quick honey garlic chicken dinner is amazing! Thinking of more variations of honey garlic chicken such as honey garlic chicken stir fry or honey garlic chicken with rice .
I also wonder, should I try Chinese honey garlic chicken version?
If you're missing rice vinegar, a splash of apple cider vinegar works! But honestly, grab some rice vinegar. It's a game changer for loads of Asian inspired dishes.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need a fancy kitchen for this. Just the basics:
- A large skillet or wok. Wok's are amazing for pan-fried honey garlic chicken , but a skillet does the job just fine.
- Mixing bowls, measuring spoons/cups. You know, the usual suspects.
- A cutting board and knife. Don't go cutting on your worktop, yeah?
- A whisk. To get that sauce nice and smooth.
If you don't have a wok, a large frying pan is perf. And if you're short on measuring spoons, just eyeball it! Honestly, that's how I usually cook.
This recipe will be the best honey garlic chicken recipe you have ever tasted!
Cooking Up a Storm: My Sticky & Sweet Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Right, let's get down to business. We are talking about the best honey garlic chicken recipe this side of the Mississippi.
I'm telling you now, this is an absolute banger. It's quicker than ordering a takeaway, tastes incredible and doesn't contain any funny business.
This one's for those weeknights when you fancy something proper tasty but can't be bothered with all the faff. This is the ultimate quick honey garlic chicken dinner .
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
First things first, mise en place , my friends! Chop your 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1 inch cubes.
Get your spices ready. Mince your 4 cloves garlic and 1 tsp ginger . Honestly, fresh ginger is a game changer here.
Then, measure out all your saucy bits: 1/4 cup (60ml) honey , 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce , 2 tbsp (30ml) rice vinegar , and 2 tbsp (30ml) ketchup .
Finally, mix 1 tbsp (15ml) cornstarch with 2 tbsp (30ml) water to make a slurry. Sorted!
Safety first, people! Be careful when chopping. No one wants a trip to A&E.
Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken: The Process
- Season: Toss your chicken with 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) salt and 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) black pepper . Simple, but crucial.
- Sear It: Heat 1 tbsp (15ml) vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned all over. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) . I cannot stress this enough. Undercooked chicken is a no-no. Set aside.
- Sauce Time: In the same skillet, pour in your honey , soy sauce , rice vinegar , ketchup , minced garlic , and minced ginger . If you're feeling brave, chuck in 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Thicken Up: Add your cornstarch slurry to the sauce. Whisk constantly until the sauce thickens. This should take about 1- 2 minutes . It should be glossy and gorgeous.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it generously with that delicious honey garlic chicken recipe sauce.
Pro Tips: Elevating Your Honey Garlic Chicken Game
Want that real takeaway vibe? A dash of sesame oil in the sauce is top secret. Don't tell anyone I told you that.
Be careful not to burn the garlic when making the sauce. Burnt garlic is bitter and ruins everything. Also, ensure you don't overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken.
Cook in batches. This is the secret of perfect pan-fried honey garlic chicken
This dish is best served straight away for the best flavour. Easy honey garlic chicken is just that - Easy!, and will make you the King or Queen of the kitchen.
Recipe Notes: The Secret Sauce to Success
Right then, let's get into some extra bits and bobs for this delicious honey garlic chicken recipe . I've thrown together some tips and tricks to make sure yours is bang on, every single time.
Honestly, these are the bits that take it from "meh" to "OMG, this is amazing!". You know?
Serving Suggestions: Make it a Proper Feast!
First things first, let's talk presentation. I reckon a good dollop of sticky honey garlic chicken recipe on a bed of fluffy rice looks fab.
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. It's the little things, innit?
As for sides, honestly, honey garlic chicken with rice is a classic, but why stop there? A quick stir fry with broccoli, bell peppers, and a bit of soy sauce works wonders.
Or even some egg rolls for that full-on takeaway experience. Don't forget your favourite beverage of your choice.
Storage Tips: For Future Feasts (Or Lunch!)
So, you've made this cracking easy honey garlic chicken and have some left over? Sorted! Just pop it in an airtight container and stick it in the fridge.
It'll be good for about 3-4 days. Perfect for a cheeky lunch, that is!
Freezing? Yeah, you can freeze it. It won't be quite as good as fresh, but it's still decent. Just make sure it's properly cooled first.
When reheating, I recommend pan-frying it for a bit to get that lovely pan-fried honey garlic chicken glaze back.
Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery chicken.
Variations: Spice it Up!
Fancy a bit of a change? Easy peasy. For a spicy honey garlic chicken , whack in some extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha. Boom!
Got gluten issues? No worries, just use tamari instead of soy sauce for a totally gluten-free honey garlic chicken stir fry .
You can still enjoy this best honey garlic chicken recipe without worry.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Right, so I'm no nutritionist, but here's the gist. This quick honey garlic chicken dinner has a good mix of protein from the chicken.
It also has carbs from the rice (if you're having it). And of course, that lovely honey garlic sauce brings a touch of sweetness.
Everything in moderation, eh?
Honey has some antioxidant properties. Garlic is also known for its potential health benefits. So, you know, it's practically a health food. Maybe? Honestly, it's just delicious, that's all that matters!
I reckon you’ve got this. This delicious honey garlic chicken recipe is gonna be a winner. Trust me, once you nail it, you'll be making it every week. Happy cooking, mate!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this delicious honey garlic chicken recipe ahead of time? Like, batch cook it on a Sunday for the week ahead?
While freshly made is always best, you can absolutely prep this honey garlic chicken recipe in advance! The flavors actually meld together even more beautifully overnight. Just be aware that the chicken will absorb more of the sauce the longer it sits, so it might be less crispy.
Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
What's the best way to store leftover honey garlic chicken? Is it alright to put it away in the fridge for a couple of days?
You bet! Store leftover honey garlic chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it's cooled down completely before refrigerating. When reheating, you might want to add a touch of water or chicken broth to the pan to prevent it from drying out. Avoid reheating it multiple times.
I'm not a huge fan of chicken thighs. Can I use chicken breasts in this delicious honey garlic chicken recipe instead?
You certainly can! Chicken breasts will work just fine. However, chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily than thighs. If you use chicken breasts, consider cutting them into slightly larger pieces and be careful not to overcook them. You might also want to add a bit of extra oil to the pan to help keep them moist.
Is there a way to make this honey garlic chicken recipe healthier? I'm trying to watch my sugar and sodium intake.
Absolutely! To reduce sugar, use a smaller amount of honey or substitute it with a sugar-free alternative like stevia or erythritol. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium. You can also increase the amount of fresh ginger and garlic to boost the flavor without adding extra salt or sugar.
Serving with brown rice and plenty of vegetables will also balance out the meal.
Can I add vegetables to this delicious honey garlic chicken recipe to make it a more complete meal?
Definitely! Stir frying some vegetables along with the chicken is a fantastic idea. Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots all work really well. Add the vegetables to the skillet a few minutes before adding the chicken back in, giving them a head start to cook.
This will add a lovely crunch and plenty of nutrients to your meal. It's a win-win!
I don’t have rice vinegar. What can I use instead to still make this delicious honey garlic chicken recipe?
No worries, mate! Apple cider vinegar or even white wine vinegar can stand in nicely for rice vinegar. They'll provide a similar tang to balance the sweetness of the honey. If you only have white vinegar, use it sparingly as it's a bit stronger in flavour, and maybe add a touch of extra honey to compensate.
Sticky Sweet Honey Garlic Chicken Dinners Sorted
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 0g |
