Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings when you need a fast yet satisfying meal.
Family-Friendly: The harmonious blend of honey and garlic creates a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring it’s a hit at the dinner table.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (ensure it’s gluten-free if needed)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: chopped green onions and sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through.
Add the Sauce:
- Pour the honey-garlic sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to medium and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the chicken pieces evenly.
Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Garnish the Honey Garlic Chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the honey-garlic mixture for a spicy version of this dish.
Vegetable Addition: Incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas by sautéing them alongside the chicken or adding them during the last few minutes of cooking.
Alternative Proteins: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef to explore different protein options while keeping the delicious honey-garlic flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the Honey Garlic Chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They may provide a juicier and more flavorful result.

Is there a substitute for apple cider vinegar?

White wine vinegar or rice vinegar can be used as alternatives to apple cider vinegar in this recipe.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, create a slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the sauce during the simmering step until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While Honey Garlic Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and the sauce’s flavor.

What side dishes pair well with Honey Garlic Chicken?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles make excellent accompaniments. Additionally, steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers complement the flavors well.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Honey Garlic Chicken is a great option for meal prep. Divide it into individual portions with your preferred sides and store them in airtight containers for easy meals throughout the week.

Can I freeze Honey Garlic Chicken?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the chicken and sauce may change upon thawing and reheating.

How can I make this dish lower in sodium?

Use a low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the added salt when seasoning the chicken. Additionally, serving the dish with unsalted sides like plain rice can help control sodium intake.

What type of honey works best for this recipe?

A mild-flavored honey, such as clover or wildflower honey, works well in this recipe, allowing the garlic flavor to shine through without being overpowered.

Can I add herbs to this dish?

Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley can be added as a garnish to enhance the flavor and add a touch of freshness to the dish