Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe

Sticky Honey Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors, making it an instant favorite for families and food lovers alike. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. With tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a luscious honey sauce, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this dish comes together. Read on to learn how to make this Sticky Honey Chicken and discover tips, serving suggestions, and more.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Honey Chicken

This recipe is packed with flavors that will keep you coming back for more. The sweetness of honey pairs perfectly with the umami of soy sauce, while the fresh ginger and garlic add depth to the sauce. It’s a quick and easy dish to prepare, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Sticky Honey Chicken is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners when you’re short on time but still want a flavorful meal.
• Impressing friends and family with minimal effort.
• Pairing with simple side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make Sticky Honey Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy, chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor.
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch – This helps the chicken get that crispy exterior when cooked.

Sauce:

• ⅓ cup honey – Provides the sticky sweetness and gives the dish its signature flavor.
• 2 tablespoons chicken broth or water – Thins out the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds the umami and savory depth to the sauce.
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger – Brings a warm, zesty kick to balance the sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch – Thickens the sauce, creating a glossy coating for the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon sriracha – Adds a subtle heat. Adjust based on your spice preference.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the aromatic profile of the sauce.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Here’s a list of tools you’ll need for this recipe:

• Cutting board and knife for prepping the chicken and vegetables.
• Mixing bowls for seasoning the chicken and mixing the sauce.
• Large skillet for cooking the chicken and simmering the sauce.
• Whisk to combine the sauce ingredients.
• Tongs or spatula to handle the chicken.

How to Make Sticky Honey Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Dab the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. In a medium-sized bowl, season the chicken with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of cornstarch over the chicken and toss to evenly coat the pieces. The cornstarch helps to create a lightly crispy exterior when cooked.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup honey, 2 tablespoons chicken broth (or water), 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon sriracha, and 3 cloves of minced garlic. Set this sauce aside, giving it another whisk before adding it to the pan later to make sure the cornstarch is well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and no pink remains in the center. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a dish and cover to keep warm.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Using the same skillet, whisk the sauce mixture again and pour it into the pan. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly to prevent the cornstarch from clumping. Let the sauce simmer for about 1 minute until it thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat each piece of chicken thoroughly. Let the chicken heat through for another minute. Garnish with freshly sliced green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Tips for the Best Sticky Honey Chicken

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures it browns evenly and doesn’t steam.
• Adjust the heat: If you like spicier dishes, feel free to add more sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic: Fresh ingredients elevate the flavors in the sauce, making it much more vibrant.

Variations and Swaps

• Use chicken thighs: If you prefer a richer, juicier cut of meat, boneless chicken thighs work great in this recipe.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. Follow the same steps for coating and cooking the tofu.
• Gluten-free alternative: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Sticky Honey Chicken pairs beautifully with simple side dishes that complement its sweet and savory flavor profile. Serve it over:

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making every bite flavorful.
• Stir-fried vegetables: Toss together broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas for a vibrant and nutritious side.
• Noodles: Toss the chicken with lo mein or rice noodles for a hearty dish.

For presentation, garnish with:

• Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions add color and a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds provides a bit of texture and visual appeal.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, Sticky Honey Chicken stores well and is easy to reheat. Here’s how:

• In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
• In the freezer: Freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up on the stove.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and combine them just before serving for the best texture.

What can I substitute for sriracha?
If you’re sensitive to heat, you can omit the sriracha or replace it with a mild chili sauce or ketchup for a hint of sweetness.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just be sure to cook the chicken in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

Sticky Honey Chicken is the perfect dish for anyone who loves a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes like this one!

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