This honey chicken is a flavorful dish where tender chicken is coated in a shiny, caramelized glaze that balances sweetness, savoriness, and gentle tang. It comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights while still feeling special enough for family meals or guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is easy to make without complicated techniques, yet the final result tastes rich and satisfying. The glaze clings beautifully to the chicken, creating juicy bites with bold flavor. It is versatile, pairs well with many sides, and can be adjusted to suit different taste preferences, from mildly sweet to sweet-spicy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the chicken
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into strips
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil
For the glaze
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
Optional garnish
1 tablespoon sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley
Directions
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help it brown evenly. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 2 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the simmering sauce. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the glaze thickens and becomes glossy.
Return the chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the glaze and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce clings nicely.
Remove from heat and garnish if desired. Serve immediately.
You can add a pinch of red chili flakes or a teaspoon of chili sauce for a sweet-spicy version.
For extra depth, stir in 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil at the end.
Swap chicken with turkey strips for a lighter alternative.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to the pan during the final simmer for a complete one-pan meal.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the glaze, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well. Just be careful not to overcook it, as it cooks faster than thighs.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.
Is this dish very sweet?
The sweetness is balanced by soy sauce and vinegar, but you can reduce the honey slightly if preferred.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake the seasoned chicken at 200°C for 15–20 minutes, then coat with the glaze on the stovetop.
What vegetables go well with honey chicken?
Broccoli, snow peas, carrots, and bell peppers pair very well with this dish.
Can I freeze honey chicken?
It can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the glaze may slightly change texture when reheated.
How do I keep the glaze thick and sticky?
Let the sauce simmer until glossy and avoid adding too much liquid during reheating.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and cook the chicken in batches for even browning.
What is the best way to serve honey chicken?
It is best served hot over rice, noodles, or alongside steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
Honey chicken is a reliable, flavorful recipe that combines everyday ingredients into something truly satisfying. Its sweet and savory glaze, tender chicken, and quick cooking time make it a dish you can return to again and again. Whether served simply with rice or dressed up with vegetables and garnishes, it is sure to become a favorite at the table.
This honey chicken recipe features tender chicken strips coated in a glossy, sweet-savory glaze made with soy sauce, honey, and fresh aromatics. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Asian-Inspired
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into strips
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
Optional: 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir and let simmer for 2 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water. Stir into the sauce and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened and glossy.
Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the glaze. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until heated through and well coated.
Remove from heat, garnish with sesame seeds or parsley if using, and serve hot.
Notes
Use thighs for juicier results or breast for a leaner option.
Add red chili flakes or chili sauce for extra heat.
Stir in a little toasted sesame oil at the end for added flavor depth.
Serve over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
