When it comes to flavorful, quick, and easy weeknight dinners, honey garlic chicken is a true winner. Combining the natural sweetness of honey with the savory umami of garlic, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors that pleases the entire family.

The magic of this dish lies in its sticky, glossy glaze that coats every bite. It’s a versatile recipe that can be made in one pan for minimal cleanup, and it pairs beautifully with sides like steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad.

Whether you’re cooking for a quick weekday dinner or a small gathering, honey garlic chicken will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe?

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal prep work.

Flavor-Packed:
The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger creates a sauce that is both sweet and savory, with a touch of richness.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the tender chicken and addictive glaze, making it a hit for all ages.

One-Pan Wonder: Made in a single skillet, this recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.

Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness, spice level, or protein type to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on preferred for flavor)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a light coating)
1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
3 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional, for added depth)
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Sesame seeds (optional)
Green onions, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This step ensures that the skin will crisp up nicely during cooking. If you prefer a light coating, toss the chicken in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken skin-side down and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and creates a flavorful base for the sauce. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using). Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and water in a small bowl, and pour the mixture into the skillet. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece to coat. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker glaze, whisk together the cornstarch and a tablespoon of water to make a slurry. Stir it into the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter and drizzle the sauce generously over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh and vibrant finish. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Variations

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken
Add a kick to your dish by stirring in 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the honey garlic mixture. This variation is perfect for spice lovers who enjoy a balance of heat and sweetness.

Honey Garlic Shrimp
Swap the chicken for shrimp to create a seafood version of this dish. Shrimp cook quickly, so sauté them in the sauce for just 3-4 minutes until pink and tender.
Vegetarian Honey Garlic Tofu
For a meat-free option, use firm tofu cubes instead of chicken. Pan-fry the tofu until crispy, then coat it in the honey garlic sauce for a delicious and protein-packed vegetarian meal.
Slow Cooker Version
Prefer hands-off cooking? Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The result is tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken with the same incredible flavor.

How to Serve

Honey garlic chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

Over Steamed Rice: The sticky sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
With Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a fresh cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal.

On a Bed of Noodles: Toss the sauce with cooked noodles for a comforting, Asian-inspired dish.
As an Appetizer: Use smaller chicken pieces like wings or drumettes to create a finger-food version, perfect for parties and gatherings.