Sticky_Honey_Chicken

Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe: Sweet, Savory, and Irresistible!

ByJulia Child

If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple to make, yet bursting with flavor, then this Sticky Honey Chicken recipe is for you! The combination of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a few secret ingredients creates a rich, sticky glaze that coats each piece of chicken in a sweet and savory hug. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, weekend gatherings, or even meal prep. The best part? It’s quick and easy, and it’s sure to impress your family or guests.

Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium works best)
  • 1/4 cup honey (the star of the recipe!)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for a bit of tang)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional, but it adds a wonderful flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
  • Green onions, sliced (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. Make the honey sauce: In the same pan, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir and cook on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  3. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the sauce and stir continuously. The sauce should thicken quickly, turning into a glossy, sticky glaze.
  4. Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss in the sauce until the chicken is fully coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to fully absorb into the chicken.
  5. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables.

Recipe Notes:

  • Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer your dish to be less sweet, you can reduce the amount of honey. Feel free to adjust the ratio of soy sauce and honey based on your personal taste.
  • Chicken variations: While this recipe uses chicken breasts or thighs, you can also use chicken drumsticks or wings if you prefer.
  • Adding heat: If you like a bit of spice, feel free to add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce. This will give the dish a nice balance of sweet and spicy.

Time and Serving:

  • Total Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Serving Size: This recipe serves 4 people.

How to Store Sticky Honey Chicken:

  • In the Refrigerator: Let the chicken cool down to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
  • In the Freezer: You can freeze the cooked sticky honey chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbs: 30g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Sugar: 20g (from the honey)
  • Sodium: 700mg (adjust for low-sodium soy sauce)
  • Fiber: 1g

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect:

  1. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure the chicken pieces are not crowded in the pan to ensure they get crispy. If you have a lot of chicken, cook in batches.
  2. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger add a depth of flavor to the dish, making the sauce more aromatic. If you use powdered ginger or garlic, the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
  3. Add a crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top of the chicken before serving. It adds a nice crunch to every bite.

How to Serve:

Sticky Honey Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great serving options:

  • With steamed rice: The sweetness of the honey sauce complements the neutral taste of rice perfectly. Serve the chicken on top of a bed of fluffy rice for a filling meal.
  • With vegetables: Add a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a balanced meal.
  • In a wrap or sandwich: For a fun twist, try wrapping the chicken in a warm tortilla or serving it on a toasted bun for a sweet and savory sandwich.

Kitchen Tools Needed:

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Small bowl for the cornstarch slurry
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or tongs for tossing the chicken

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Yes! You can use pork, beef, or even tofu as an alternative to chicken. Just adjust the cooking times based on the protein you use.

Absolutely! If you love spice, add some chili flakes, sriracha, or chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce. This will balance out the sweetness with a kick.

If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as alternatives. However, keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change.

Yes! You can prep the chicken, sauce, and cornstarch slurry in advance. Store them separately, then cook and combine them when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts:

Sticky Honey Chicken is a recipe that blends the best of sweet and savory flavors, and it’s a dish that’s sure to be loved by all. With minimal ingredients, quick prep time, and a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. The tender chicken coated in a rich, glossy sauce will make you want to come back for more. So, grab your ingredients, give this recipe a try, and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!

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