Name: Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs; salt and pepper; 2 tsp garlic powder; 6 garlic cloves; ⅓ cup honey; ¼ cup water; 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar; 1 tbsp soy sauce

Indulge in the delightful blend of sweet and savory with this easy honey garlic chicken recipe. It's a quick meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Photos of Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Rice wine vinegar and soy sauce might not be common in every household pantry. Be sure to pick them up at the supermarket to achieve the authentic flavor of this dish.

Ingredients for Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they serve as the main protein for this dish.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

Pepper: Adds a hint of heat to balance the sweetness of the honey.

Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a subtle, savory garlic flavor.

Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic intensifies the dish's aromatic essence.

Honey: Provides sweetness and caramelizes beautifully in the pan.

Water: Helps in creating the sauce and reducing it to the right consistency.

Rice wine vinegar: Adds a tangy note that balances the sweetness of the honey.

Soy sauce: Contributes umami and depth to the sauce.

One reader, Gilberto Massie says:

This easy honey garlic chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the chicken turns out juicy and delicious. It's quick to make and has become a family favorite. Highly recommend!

Gilberto Massie

Essential Techniques for Making Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

How to sear chicken: Heat a pan or skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken thigh fillets on both sides until golden and cooked through. How to drain excess oil: Remove most of the excess oil from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons of pan juices for added flavor. How to fry garlic: Add the garlic between the chicken in the pan and fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. How to reduce sauce: Increase heat to medium-high, then cook the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes or until it reduces down and thickens slightly.

How To Make Easy Honey Garlic Chicken

This tasty yet simple recipe for honey garlic chicken gives you the juiciest and most tender chicken! Serve up a sweet plate with just a few ingredients.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6chicken thighs,bone in or out, with or without skin
salt and pepper,to season
2tspgarlic powder,to season
6garlic cloves,crushed
⅓cuphoney
¼cupwater,or chicken broth
2tbsprice wine vinegar,or apple cider vinegar, or any white vinegar
1tbspsoy sauce

Instructions

Season the chicken with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Set aside.
Heat a pan or skillet over medium high heat, then sear the chicken thigh fillets on both sides until golden and cooked through.
Drain most of the excess oil from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons of pan juiced for added flavor.

Sauce:

Arrange the chicken skin-side up in the pan if cooking with the skin, then add the garlic between the chicken. Fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
Add the honey, water, vinegar and soy sauce.
Increase heat to medium-high, then continue to cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until the sauce reduces down and thickens slightly.
Garnish with parsley, then serve over vegetables, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 495.74kcal
Fat: 32.12g
Saturated Fat: 8.75g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.40g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.71g
Carbohydrates: 18.33g
Fiber: 0.39g
Sugar: 15.54g
Protein: 32.59g
Cholesterol: 189.14mg
Sodium: 544.34mg
Calcium: 25.61mg
Potassium: 448.92mg
Iron: 1.61mg
Vitamin A: 44.58µg
Vitamin C: 1.04mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

When searing the chicken thighs, make sure the pan is hot enough to create a nice golden crust. This not only locks in the juices but also adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and a perfect sear.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Honey Garlic Chicken

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out honey, garlic powder, and other ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought pre-minced garlic instead of peeling and chopping fresh cloves.

One-pan method: Cook the chicken thighs and sauce in the same pan to reduce cleanup time.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Quick marinade: Marinate the chicken in a ziplock bag for faster and more even seasoning.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster, but they can be used if you prefer white meat.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a similar salty flavor but also brings additional umami depth.
pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat along with the peppery flavor.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor profile if garlic is not available.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.
rice wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used as a direct substitute.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar umami flavor.

How to Beautifully Present Honey Garlic Chicken

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken thighs in smaller, elegant portions to highlight the quality and flavors of the dish.
Use decoration: Garnish with finely chopped parsley and a drizzle of the reduced honey garlic sauce for a visually appealing presentation.
Plate with precision: Arrange the chicken pieces neatly on the plate, ensuring each piece is evenly spaced and not overcrowded.
Add color contrast: Serve the chicken over a bed of vibrant, steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas to add a pop of color.
Highlight textures: Ensure the chicken skin is crispy and golden, providing a delightful contrast to the tender meat and the smooth sauce.
Use high-quality plates: Select elegant, white plates to make the colors of the dish stand out and give a clean, sophisticated look.
Incorporate height: Stack the chicken pieces slightly to add dimension and interest to the plate.
Finish with finesse: Lightly brush the chicken with a bit more honey for a glossy finish, ensuring it catches the light and looks appetizing.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Honey Garlic Chicken

Let the honey garlic chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep the chicken fresh for longer.
Store the cooled chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to place it in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the back of the bottom shelf.
If you want to freeze the honey garlic chicken, place the cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when you froze the chicken.
Freeze the honey garlic chicken for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat the thawed or refrigerated chicken, place it in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave. Place the chicken pieces in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

How To Reheat Honey Garlic Chicken Leftovers

To reheat leftover honey garlic chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken pieces in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the chicken.
Another option is to reheat the chicken on the stovetop. Place the chicken pieces in a skillet or pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water, chicken broth, or even a bit of the leftover honey garlic sauce to the pan. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method is quick and helps to keep the chicken moist.
If you're in a hurry, you can also use the microwave to reheat your leftover honey garlic chicken. Place the chicken pieces in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can quickly dry out in the microwave.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the chicken in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the skin is crispy. This method is perfect if you want to restore the crispiness of the chicken skin.
If you have leftover honey garlic sauce, you can reheat it separately in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir the sauce occasionally until it's heated through. Once the chicken is reheated, drizzle the warm sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

Interesting Trivia About Honey Garlic Chicken

A random fact about this recipe is that the combination of honey and garlic not only adds a deliciously sweet and savory flavor but also provides health benefits. Honey is known for its antibacterial properties, while garlic is rich in antioxidants and can help boost the immune system.

Is Making Honey Garlic Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy honey garlic chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Chicken thighs are generally affordable, and the other ingredients like garlic, honey, and soy sauce are pantry staples. The use of minimal ingredients keeps the cost low while delivering a flavorful dish. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $10-$12.

Is Honey Garlic Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

This honey garlic chicken recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe calls for chicken thighs, which are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast
Honey and soy sauce contribute to the dish's high sugar and sodium content
The cooking method involves pan-frying, which can add extra fat to the dish

However, this recipe does include some healthier elements, such as the use of garlic, which has potential health benefits, and the absence of heavily processed ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Opt for skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs to reduce the fat content
Reduce the amount of honey used in the sauce, or replace it with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia
Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on the dish's salt content
Instead of pan-frying, try baking or grilling the chicken to minimize added fat
Increase the amount of garlic used in the recipe, as it may offer health benefits such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation
Serve the chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal

Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

This honey garlic chicken recipe is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The use of garlic powder and fresh garlic cloves ensures a robust garlic presence, while the honey adds a pleasant sweetness. The rice wine vinegar and soy sauce introduce a subtle tang and umami depth. Searing the chicken first locks in the juices, and reducing the sauce in the same pan enhances the overall flavor profile. Garnishing with parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch. This dish is straightforward yet sophisticated, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Enhance Your Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the sweet and savory notes of your honey garlic chicken, creating a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Picture these little green gems, caramelized to perfection with a hint of balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts will contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce, making each bite a delightful experience.

Quinoa Salad: Quinoa Salad: Envision a vibrant quinoa salad bursting with colors and flavors. Tossed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this light and refreshing side dish will add a nutritious and satisfying element to your meal.

Buttered Corn on the Cob: Buttered Corn on the Cob: Think of sweet, juicy corn on the cob, slathered in rich, melted butter and sprinkled with a touch of sea salt. This classic side dish will bring a touch of summer to your plate, enhancing the flavors of your honey garlic chicken with its natural sweetness.

Asian Cucumber Salad: Asian Cucumber Salad: Visualize crisp, refreshing slices of cucumber tossed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing, with a hint of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This light and crunchy side dish will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory chicken, making your meal truly unforgettable.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Honey Garlic Chicken

Lemon Herb Chicken: Brighten up your dinner with this zesty main course. The combination of fresh lemon juice, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken thighs will make your taste buds sing. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: A quick and easy main course that's perfect for busy weeknights. This stir-fry features juicy chicken pieces coated in a savory teriyaki sauce, tossed with crisp vegetables. Serve over steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Garlic Butter Shrimp: Indulge in this luxurious main course featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfectly paired with a side of pasta or crusty bread, this dish is sure to impress.

Maple Dijon Chicken: Sweet and tangy, this main course combines the flavors of maple syrup and Dijon mustard to create a mouthwatering glaze for your chicken. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal.

Spicy Honey Lime Chicken: Add a kick to your dinner with this main course. The combination of honey, lime, and a touch of spice creates a tantalizing glaze for your chicken. Serve with a side of rice and grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Honey Garlic Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, spinach, and parmesan, then baked to perfection. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, creating a harmonious bite. A touch of garlic and herbs elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser. Serve these warm, and watch them disappear quickly.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Picture toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. A drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of sea salt bring out the flavors, making each bite a burst of freshness. This appetizer is perfect for summer gatherings, offering a light and refreshing start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, gooey core that oozes out as you cut into it, creating a delightful contrast with the slightly crisp outer layer. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. For an added touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or garnish with fresh berries. This dessert is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a luxurious end to any meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight in the tangy and sweet flavors of a Lemon Meringue Pie. The zesty lemon filling provides a refreshing burst of citrus, while the fluffy meringue topping adds a light and airy texture. The buttery, flaky crust ties everything together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Serve it chilled for a refreshing dessert on a warm day, or enjoy it as a bright and cheerful finish to a hearty meal. Garnish with lemon zest or a few mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance.

Why trust this Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe:

This easy honey garlic chicken recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and flavor. The combination of garlic, honey, and soy sauce creates a deliciously balanced sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken thighs. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it's perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. The use of rice wine vinegar adds a subtle tang, enhancing the overall taste. Trust this recipe for a quick, flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends.

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FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster, so you might need to adjust the cooking time to avoid drying them out.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check if the juices run clear.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Just store the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like steamed vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. The sauce is great for drizzling over your sides too!

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just add them to the pan when you add the garlic so they can cook in the sauce and absorb all the flavors.