Honey Garlic Chicken

Discover the best Honey Garlic Chicken recipe that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. This quick 40-minute recipe features tender chicken in a sweet and savory sauce made with honey, soy sauce, and garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish pairs beautifully with rice and vegetables, creating a complete restaurant-quality meal at home. Ideal for those looking for a versatile, family-friendly dinner option that’s customizable for different diets. Learn tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make this your go-to chicken recipe!

Ingredients

Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 3-4 tablespoons peanut oil (or substitute olive oil)

Sauce:

• ¾ cup beef broth
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• ¼ cup cornstarch mixed with ¼ cup cold water

Veggies:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets

For Serving:

• 3 cups cooked rice (any kind)
• Green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: Combine all the sauce ingredients except the cornstarch mixture in a bowl and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 2-3 thinner pieces. Cover with plastic wrap and use the textured side of a meat mallet to pound them to about ½ inch thick. Pat dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Coat and Cook the Chicken: Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess. Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms. Remove and let rest.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Wipe out excess oil but leave the flavorful chicken bits (fond) in the pan to enhance the sauce.
5. Cook the Vegetables: Add the sauce mixture (without the cornstarch) to the skillet. Stir in the red bell pepper and broccoli. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
6. Thicken the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Stir the cornstarch and water mixture until smooth, then slowly add it to the sauce while stirring continuously. Cook until the sauce reaches your desired thickness, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let the chicken heat through for about 5 minutes. Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with green onions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Simple and Quick: Ready in under 40 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Pair it with your favorite vegetables or swap them out based on what you have on hand.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your family with this elevated homemade dinner.

Tips

• Pound the chicken to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more or less cornstarch mixture.
• Toast the garlic slightly before adding it to the sauce for a deeper flavor.
• Use fresh vegetables for the best texture and taste.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Try this recipe with shrimp, tofu, or pork instead of chicken.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Spicier Option: Add extra hot sauce or a dash of sriracha for more heat.
• Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and broths to reduce salt content.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or flour can be used as a thickener in place of cornstarch.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
• Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra texture and flavor.

Enjoy this Honey Garlic Chicken recipe for a delicious and satisfying homemade meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!