If you’re looking for an easy and delicious dinner idea, this Sticky Honey Chicken recipe is the perfect choice. With a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and it pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or vegetables. Whether you’re planning a casual family meal or a special dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Sticky Honey Chicken
- Quick and Easy: This dish is perfect for busy evenings when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
- Rich and Flavorful: The sticky honey glaze adds a layer of sweetness and savoriness that coats the chicken beautifully.
- Versatile: Pair it with rice, noodles, or fresh veggies – the options are endless!
- Meal Prep Friendly: It reheats well, making it great for leftovers or meal prepping.
Ingredients for Sticky Honey Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
For Garnish:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil (if using), garlic, and ginger. Stir the mixture well. Bring to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry and stir for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Let it heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the sticky honey chicken to a serving dish, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve with your favorite side dishes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu or cauliflower to create a plant-based version.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave for a different sweetness profile.
- Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the sauce for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
What to Serve with Sticky Honey Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Steamed rice or jasmine rice
- Noodles or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers
FAQs
1. How do I know if the chicken is cooked through? To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes! Chicken thighs are tender and juicy, making them a great choice for this dish.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine them when ready to serve.
4. What can I substitute for sesame oil? If you don’t have sesame oil, you can either omit it or use a neutral oil like canola oil.
Conclusion
Sticky Honey Chicken is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it an easy and crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Its rich flavors and quick preparation time make it ideal for busy weeknights, while the versatility of sides means you can pair it with whatever you have on hand. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, satisfying dinner that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!