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Why make this recipe

Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors. The crunchy, golden chicken thighs mix wonderfully with the sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

How to make Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil, plus more for searing
1 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
110g (1/3 cup) honey
80ml (1/3 cup) chicken stock
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp light soy sauce
½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)
2 tbsp cornstarch
4 tbsp cold water (for slurry)
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
Cooked rice, for serving

Directions:

Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, drizzle chicken with 2 tbsp vegetable oil, then sprinkle with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Set aside.
Craft the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a liquid measuring cup or bowl, combine minced garlic, 110g honey, 80ml chicken stock, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, and optional ½ tsp chilli flakes. Whisk until well combined. In a separate small bowl, whisk 2 tbsp cornstarch with 4 tbsp cold water until smooth to form a slurry. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet (non-stick or cast iron) over medium-high heat with additional vegetable oil and 1 tbsp unsalted butter. Sear chicken in batches without overcrowding the pan for 3-4 minutes per side, until deep golden-brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Transfer cooked chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
Glaze and Finish: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce into the skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously. Re-whisk the cornstarch slurry, then slowly pour it into the simmering sauce in a thin stream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze that coats the back of a spoon. Return all cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing gently but thoroughly to coat every piece in the sticky glaze. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
Serve: Transfer Honey Garlic Chicken to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish generously with finely chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately over cooked rice.

How to serve Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken

Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken is best served over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnishing with chopped parsley adds a touch of color and freshness.

How to store Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to make Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken

Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet while searing the chicken. This helps achieve a nice, golden-brown crust.
Adjust the level of chili flakes according to your spice preference. Omit them if you prefer a sweeter dish.
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe by using different proteins like chicken breasts or shrimp. For a vegetarian option, try using tofu or tempeh as a substitute for chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than thighs.

2. What can I serve with this dish?
Honey Garlic Chicken pairs well with cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta. Steamed vegetables or a salad can balance the meal nicely.

3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos, and ensure that your chicken stock is gluten-free.