If you're looking for a meal that's both easy to make and bursting with flavor, this Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is the perfect choice. With tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this recipe will impress. So, let's dive in and explore how to make this mouthwatering dish from scratch.
What is Honey Garlic Chicken?
Honey Garlic Chicken is a popular dish known for its rich and flavorful combination of sweet honey and savory garlic. This recipe typically features chicken thighs, but you can use other cuts of chicken as well. The chicken is first coated in cornflour (cornstarch), seasoned, and then seared to perfection before being smothered in a luscious honey garlic sauce. The result is a dish that's crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with a perfect balance of sweetness and umami.
Ingredients List for Honey Garlic Chicken
Before we get started with the cooking process, let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious Honey Garlic Chicken:
- 8 chicken thighs (skinless and boneless): Chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they are juicy and flavorful. Skinless and boneless thighs are easier to cook and absorb the sauce well.
- 2 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch): Cornflour is used to coat the chicken, giving it a crispy texture when seared.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Salt is essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Pepper adds a mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is used for frying the chicken. It has a high smoke point, making it suitable for searing.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Butter adds richness to the dish and helps to create a silky sauce.
- 4 cloves minced garlic: Garlic is the star of the sauce, providing a robust, aromatic flavor.
- 110 g (⅓ cup) honey: Honey is the sweet component of the sauce, balancing the savory flavors perfectly.
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) chicken stock: Chicken stock adds moisture to the sauce and enhances the umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Rice vinegar adds a subtle tanginess to the sauce, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce: Soy sauce contributes a salty, umami flavor that complements the honey and garlic.
To Serve:
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley: Parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color to the finished dish.
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes: Chili flakes add a touch of heat, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
- Boiled rice: Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken over a bed of boiled rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Substitutions and Variations
While the ingredients listed above are ideal for making Honey Garlic Chicken, there are several substitutions and variations you can consider depending on your preferences and dietary needs:
- Chicken Breasts or Drumsticks: If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs. Drumsticks are another alternative, though they may require a longer cooking time.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
- Honey Substitutes: If you're out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that these will slightly alter the flavor of the dish.
- Spicy Variation: If you like a bit more heat, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets. Prepare them the same way as the chicken for a delicious meat-free meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's go through the step-by-step instructions to make this delightful Honey Garlic Chicken:

- Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This will help the cornflour adhere better and ensure a crispy texture.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the cornflour, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken thigh evenly with the mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Keep it warm by covering it with foil.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the honey, chicken stock, rice vinegar, and light soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, ensuring they are coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will allow the chicken to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chicken with finely chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of chili flakes.
- Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken over a bed of boiled rice, ensuring each serving gets plenty of sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is relatively straightforward, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure the best results:
- Overcrowding the Skillet: If your skillet is too crowded, the chicken will steam rather than sear, resulting in a less crispy texture. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly if cooked at too high a temperature. Be sure to sauté it over medium heat and watch it closely to prevent bitterness.
- Not Reducing the Sauce Enough: The sauce should be thick and glossy. If it's too thin, continue to simmer it until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don't forget to season the chicken with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning is key to a flavorful dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving Honey Garlic Chicken, presentation can elevate the dish and make it even more appetizing. Here are some tips for serving and presenting this dish:
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet. Ensure the chicken is piping hot, and the sauce is freshly drizzled over it.
- Over Rice or Noodles: Honey Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with boiled rice, as the rice soaks up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, you can serve it over noodles for a different twist.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or snap peas, for a complete and balanced meal.
Presentation Ideas for Honey Garlic Chicken
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor to the dish.
- Add a Sprinkle of Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a light sprinkle of chili flakes over the top adds visual appeal and a kick of flavor.
- Serve in a Skillet: For a rustic presentation, serve the Honey Garlic Chicken directly from the skillet at the table. This keeps the dish warm and adds to the communal dining experience.
Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe Tips
To ensure your Honey Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide the best flavor for the sauce. Pre-minced garlic in jars can be convenient but often lacks the same intensity.
- Don’t Rush the Sear: Take the time to properly sear the chicken thighs. This step is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor and a pleasing texture.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The amount of honey can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey slightly.
- Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce to pour over rice or vegetables, consider doubling the sauce ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Honey Garlic Chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Prepare the chicken and sauce as instructed, then store in individual containers with rice. Reheat as needed.
Q: What other sides can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?
A: In addition to rice, you can serve this dish with quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Q: Can I freeze Honey Garlic Chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this recipe is sure to please. With its rich honey garlic sauce and tender chicken thighs, it's a meal that's both comforting and impressive. Don't forget to try out the variations and tips to make this dish your own. Enjoy your cooking, and savor every bite!
PrintHoney Garlic Chicken Recipe
This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe features tender, boneless chicken thighs coated in a savory and sweet honey garlic sauce. Perfectly seasoned with salt, pepper, and cornflour, then pan-fried to perfection. This dish combines simple ingredients like garlic, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar for a delicious meal. Serve with boiled rice and garnish with fresh parsley and chili flakes for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs (skinless and boneless)
- 2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 110 g (⅓ cup) honey
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) chicken stock
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- To Serve:
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- Boiled rice
Instructions
- Coat the chicken thighs with cornflour, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in honey, chicken stock, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and chili flakes. Serve with boiled rice.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can brown the chicken under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after cooking.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (with sauce and rice)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
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