Honey Garlic Chicken

As a busy mom of three, I believe that food is love. One of our family’s favorite dinners is my Honey Garlic Chicken. This dish encompasses everything I adore about cooking: it’s simple, nourishing, and elicits joyful smiles around the dinner table.

You know those evenings when the kids come home from school, tired and a bit hangry? That’s when I whip up this delightful meal, and within minutes, the aroma fills our home, turning cranky moods into happy faces. The blend of sweet honey and savory garlic always feels like a warm hug for my family. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, Honey Garlic Chicken never fails to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe checks all the right boxes. First, it’s incredibly easy to make! You can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Moreover, it uses minimal and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Each bite offers a mouthwatering balance of sweetness and garlic richness, pleasing even the pickiest eaters. Plus, this meal is versatile; you can pair it with numerous sides to suit everyone’s tastes. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it has become a staple in our family!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making delicious Honey Garlic Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

Substitutions & Variations

This Honey Garlic Chicken is forgiving and adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your pantry supplies or dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Feel free to swap out honey for maple syrup for a vegan alternative.

If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch—use about 1/8 teaspoon per garlic clove. Want to spice things up? Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. The variations are endless, and that’s one of the best aspects of this dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now let’s jump into preparing this scrumptious Honey Garlic Chicken. Follow these steps for a quick and easy meal:

1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and soak up more of that wonderful honey garlic sauce.
2. In a bowl, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to make the marinade.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Mix until the chicken is well coated, and let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated chicken pieces, reserving the marinade for later.
5. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
6. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. This helps to thicken the sauce and intensify the flavors.
7. Once your sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Pro Tips for Success

To ensure your Honey Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these pro tips:

• Letting the Chicken marinate for a longer period will enhance the taste. If time allows, marinate for up to 2 hours.
• Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This step guarantees a nice sear.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re doubling the recipe, use two skillets to maintain that perfect sear.
• Taste the sauce before serving. Adjust the sweetness or saltiness to suit your family’s preferences.

Storage & Reheating Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers from your Honey Garlic Chicken, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If freezing, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Pairing sides with Honey Garlic Chicken can take your meal to the next level. Here are some tasty options:

• Steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy crunch.
• A bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Warm, crusty bread to round out the meal.
• A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and will lend a bit more moisture to the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make Honey Garlic Chicken gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and then cook it when you’re ready.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas can be sautéed alongside the chicken for added nutrition.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

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Honey Garlic Chicken

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Honey Garlic Chicken is a simple, nourishing dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory richness of garlic. It's perfect for busy weeknights, taking under 30 minutes to prepare, and is loved by families for its delicious flavor and versatility.

• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1.5 lbs Boneless Chicken Breasts
1/3 cup Honey
4 cloves Garlic (minced)
1/4 cup Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper
optional Green Onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces
2. In a bowl, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to make the marinade
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and let it sit for about 15 minutes
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken pieces
5. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through
6. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce
7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions if desired

Notes

Letting the chicken marinate for a longer period will enhance the taste.

Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a nice sear.

Taste the sauce before serving to adjust sweetness or saltiness.

• Author: Ashley Chen
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg