Description
This 15-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze with a hint of heat from optional red pepper flakes. Served over steamed rice and garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and lime, it’s a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
Chicken and Cooking
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (or canola oil)
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small 1/2 inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Honey Garlic Sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
To Serve
- Brown or white rice, cooked
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Chopped peanuts (optional), for garnish
- Lime wedges, for squeezing over chicken
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 teaspoons of extra-virgin olive oil or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Season the chicken: Lightly season the cubed chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, keeping salt minimal due to the soy sauce in the glaze.
- Brown the chicken: Add the chicken to the hot skillet. Let it brown on one side without stirring for about 3-4 minutes to develop a nice sear.
- Prepare the glaze: While the chicken cooks, whisk together 3 tablespoons honey, 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using, in a small bowl until smooth and combined.
- Cook chicken through with sauce: Turn the chicken pieces to cook the other side. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken and toss to coat all pieces evenly. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened and glossy.
- Serve: Plate the honey garlic chicken over steamed brown or white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, chopped peanuts (if desired), and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness.
Notes
- You can adjust the heat by varying the amount of red pepper flakes or omitting them for a milder taste.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep sodium levels balanced and control saltiness.
- Cutting chicken into small pieces allows it to cook quickly and absorb the glaze better.
- Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier, richer flavor if preferred.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
