Description
Tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey-garlic glaze, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons low‑sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (optional for depth)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger; set aside.
- Season chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium‑high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour honey‑garlic sauce over the chicken. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan and stir constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add a splash more soy or honey if desired.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or alongside veggies.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in half the sauce for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
- Use chicken breasts or thighs depending on preference—thighs remain juicier.
- Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle of Sriracha.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
- To make gluten‑free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.