Description
This honey garlic chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet-savory honey glaze with fresh garlic and soy sauce. The chicken is seared to a crisp finish while locking in moisture, resulting in a flavorful, balanced dish. Ready in 30 minutes, it is an ideal quick and easy meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons honey (preferably raw or local)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and sear for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium-low, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in honey and soy sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the pan, and cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened and sticky.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, turning to coat it evenly in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to glaze.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Drying the chicken before cooking ensures a crisp, golden sear.
- Adjust the heat carefully to prevent the honey from burning and becoming bitter.
- Chicken thighs provide more forgiving juiciness; breasts result in a leaner dish.
- You can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce for gluten-free options.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables.
Nutrition
- Array