Quick Description:
This Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken is a perfectly balanced dish with sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and bold garlic flavor. Tender chicken thighs or breasts are pan-seared or oven-baked, then coated in a glossy honey garlic glaze that clings to every bite. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve guests.
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients List:
For the Chicken:
- 1 kg boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts, cut into thick strips
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (adds color and thickness)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for a glossy finish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, coating evenly.
Heat oil in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
(If using chicken breasts, cook 6–8 minutes per side depending on thickness.)
Remove chicken from heat and set aside in the pan.
2. Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar or lemon juice, minced garlic, and chili flakes if using.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
For a glossy sauce, stir in butter until melted and smooth.
3. Coat the Chicken
Pour the honey garlic glaze over the cooked chicken in the pan.
Turn each piece to coat evenly.
Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2–3 minutes so the glaze thickens and clings to the chicken.
4. Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately, spooning extra glaze over the chicken.
Additional Notes:
- For oven method: After searing, pour glaze over chicken and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
- Adjust sweetness by reducing honey slightly if preferred.
- Add sesame seeds or green onions for garnish if desired.
Dietary Info (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbs: ~32g
- Fat: ~18g
- Sugar: ~24g
- Sodium: ~780mg
- Cholesterol: ~125mg
(Values vary based on chicken cut and exact glaze amounts.)
Brief Introduction:
This honey garlic chicken is one of those reliable recipes that works every time. It’s fast, flavorful, and made with pantry staples, yet tastes like something you’d order from a restaurant. The glaze strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it a family-friendly dinner that never disappoints.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide:
- Season chicken generously.
- Pan-sear until golden and cooked through.
- Simmer honey garlic glaze until slightly thickened.
- Pour glaze over chicken and simmer briefly.
- Serve hot with extra sauce.
Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips:
- Chicken Thighs: Juicier and more forgiving; breasts work but watch cook time.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium if preferred. Tamari works for gluten-free.
- Honey: Can be swapped with maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- Ketchup: Helps thicken and color the sauce; tomato paste + water can substitute.
- Butter: Optional but adds shine and richness.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:
- Spicy Version: Add extra chili flakes or a splash of sriracha.
- Asian-Inspired: Add 1 teaspoon grated ginger and finish with sesame oil.
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Serve With:
- Steamed rice or fried rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Noodles or quinoa
Storage & Make-Ahead Information:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken with glaze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I bake this without pan-searing?
Yes. Place raw seasoned chicken in a baking dish, pour glaze over, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Q: Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce honey to ¼ cup and increase vinegar slightly.
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but increase cook time and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: Is this kid-friendly?
Yes. Skip chili flakes for a mild version.
Optional Personal Story:
This honey garlic chicken is one of those meals I make when I want something comforting but fast. The sauce comes together in minutes, and everyone loves the sticky, sweet glaze. It’s a go-to dinner that feels special without requiring much effort.
