Honey Garlic Chicken is a simple yet irresistible dinner made with tender chicken breast coated in a glossy, sweet-and-savory sauce. With the perfect balance of honey, soy sauce, and garlic, this dish delivers bold flavor in very little time. It’s the kind of recipe that feels better than takeout but comes together right in your own kitchen.
Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or quick family dinners, this honey garlic chicken uses pantry staples and one skillet to create a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in about 20 minutes
- One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup
- Sweet & Savory – Perfectly balanced flavors
- Family-Friendly – Mild and kid-approved
- Versatile – Serve with rice, noodles, or veggies
- Better Than Takeout – Fresher and homemade
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
Sesame seeds, chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season lightly with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. - Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. - Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the honey and soy sauce together. Pour the mixture over the chicken. - Simmer & Coat
Reduce heat slightly and let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring gently, until thickened and glossy. The sauce should coat the chicken evenly. - Serve
Remove from heat and garnish if desired. Serve hot.
How to Serve
- Classic: Over steamed white or brown rice
- Noodles: With lo mein, ramen, or rice noodles
- Low-Carb: With broccoli, green beans, or cauliflower rice
- Meal Prep: Perfect for lunch bowls
Helpful Tips
- Cut chicken into even cubes for consistent cooking
- Don’t overcook garlic, it turns bitter quickly
- Adjust honey for more or less sweetness
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred
- Let sauce reduce naturally for best texture
Variations
- Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add chili flakes or sriracha
- Ginger Twist: Add grated fresh ginger
- Crispy Version: Lightly coat chicken in cornstarch before cooking
- Sticky Style: Simmer sauce an extra minute for thicker glaze
- Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers or snap peas
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freeze: Up to 2 months
- Reheat: Stovetop or microwave with a splash of water
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work great and stay extra juicy.
Is this dish very sweet?
It’s balanced, but you can reduce the honey if needed.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely, flavors deepen overnight.
Does the sauce thicken without cornstarch?
Yes, honey naturally thickens as it simmers.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Chicken is a fast, flavorful dinner that proves simple ingredients can create big results. With juicy chicken and a sticky, garlicky glaze, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again when you want something comforting, homemade, and incredibly satisfying.
