Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

Honey Garlic Chicken brings everything I crave in a quick weeknight dinner to the table. In just twenty minutes you get juicy chicken in a glossy, garlicky honey sauce that clings to every bite. No deep frying or messy breading is involved and all you need are five main ingredients. It is the kind of meal my kids beg for and even impresses surprise guests with how much flavor comes together so fast.

I still remember the first time I made this for a group of tired friends after moving into a new place. It got devoured straight from the pan and everyone asked for the recipe before we even sat down

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breast: Choose fresh firm chicken for juiciness and slice into even one inch pieces for fast even cooking

• Corn starch: The key for that signature light crisp outside and thickening the sauce Look for a fresh box and avoid clumps

• Filtered water: Ensures a clean fresh base for the sauce Tap water can sometimes dull the flavor

• Low sodium soy sauce: Brings salty depth without overpowering Watch for a label that says low sodium or try a gluten free version if needed

• Honey: Adds all the sweetness and helps make that sticky finish Go for a runny golden honey for smooth blending

• Sriracha sauce: For an optional kick of spice Pick your favorite brand and start with less adding more if you like heat

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives real depth and a savory punch Stick with real garlic cloves for best flavor

• Cold water: Combining with cornstarch for a smooth slurry helps thicken the sauce with no lumps

• Sesame seeds and chives: Optional for garnish but add crunch and a hint of color Choose fresh green chives for pop

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Sauce:

In a medium saucepan combine filtered water low sodium soy sauce honey sriracha and minced garlic Set on medium heat and bring just to a boil stirring occasionally so everything dissolves

Thicken the Sauce:

In a small dish combine corn starch and cold water Stir until smooth and no lumps remain Pour this mixture into the sauce whisking well Let it simmer a minute or two until it turns glossy and thick It should coat the back of a spoon Lower the heat and keep warm

Coat the Chicken:

Place chicken pieces in a large zip top bag or bowl Sprinkle corn starch all over Shake or toss until every piece is evenly coated This keeps the chicken juicy with a light crisp exterior

Brown the Chicken:

Set a large non stick skillet over medium heat Add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom Arrange chicken in a single layer without crowding Cook several minutes on each side until golden outside and fully cooked in the center Do this in batches if needed for best browning

Sauce and Finish:

With heat off pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken Stir everything to coat every piece Let it sit a minute so the chicken soaks up the glaze Taste and adjust salt or pepper if you need

Serve:

Spoon hot chicken over fluffy white rice Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions or chives for crunch and color

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I never skip the garnish of fresh chives It makes all the difference visually and brings a fresh finish My kids love to sprinkle their own sesame seeds on top and make it their special dinner

Storage Tips

Leftover honey garlic chicken keeps well in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge It reheats beautifully in a pan over low heat or in the microwave Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it tightens up

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken breast with thighs for a juicier result Shrimp or diced firm tofu both work especially well in the sticky sauce For a soy free version try coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and a maple syrup swap works if you are low on honey

Serving Suggestions

This chicken really shines over steamed jasmine or basmati rice Add quick steamed broccoli snap peas or bell peppers for a full meal Leftover sauce is great over sautéed veggies or even spooned onto noodles

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Cultural Context

Honey garlic sauce has roots in both Chinese American and home cook kitchens It hits that beloved balance of sweet salty and savory that families always love The shortcut method here is inspired by busy weeknights but the flavors are classic comfort food

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add more Sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes until the heat level suits your taste.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.

→ Is it possible to use other proteins?

Try the same method with shrimp, tofu, or even fish for variation.

→ Does the cornstarch make the chicken crispy?

The cornstarch creates a light coating that helps the sauce adhere and adds a subtle crispness.

→ How should I serve this dish?

It's delicious over warm white rice and pairs well with steamed or stir-fried vegetables.