- 1½ lb (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, optional
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Cut large chicken breasts into smaller, even-sized pieces so they cook more quickly and evenly. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Make the honey garlic sauce
In a small bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. In another small bowl, mix the water and cornstarch until smooth. Set everything aside.
3. Cook the chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through.
For food safety, chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
4. Add the sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the honey-garlic mixture over the cooked chicken. Let it simmer gently for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally so the sauce coats the chicken.
5. Thicken the sauce
Give the cornstarch mixture another quick stir, then pour it into the skillet. Stir continuously for about 1–2 minutes. The sauce will become glossy and slightly thick, clinging beautifully to the chicken.
6. Coat the chicken
Turn the chicken pieces several times in the sauce until completely coated. Let everything simmer for another minute, then remove the skillet from the heat. Avoid prolonged boiling, as the honey can burn.
7. Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and the sauce is glossy.
Serving Ideas
This honey garlic chicken pairs especially well with:
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Fried rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Noodles
- Steamed broccoli
- Green beans
- Roasted vegetables
Helpful Tips
- For juicier chicken: Chicken thighs are naturally more forgiving, while chicken breasts should not be overcooked.
- For extra garlic flavor: Add another clove or two of freshly minced garlic.
- For a sweeter sauce: Add a little more honey.
- For a tangier flavor: Add an extra teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
- For a thicker glaze: Simmer the sauce briefly after adding the cornstarch mixture.
- For meal prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently until hot.
Prep & Cooking Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15–20 minutes
Total: About 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4
This Easy Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick, flavorful dinner made with tender chicken, sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and plenty of fresh garlic. The simple sauce cooks into a delicious glossy glaze that coats every piece of chicken. It requires basic ingredients, comes together in one skillet, and is perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Serve it over fluffy rice with your favorite vegetables for a comforting meal the whole family can enjoy.