Why Make This Recipe
Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of honey and the savory flavor of chicken. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. This recipe is not only delicious but also offers a beautiful glaze that makes it visually appealing on your plate. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness and the tanginess according to your taste, making it a versatile choice for everyone.
How to Make Honey Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs or breast, cut into strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
Directions
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until they are browned on both sides and nearly cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until it starts to thicken slightly.
- Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens to a glaze-like consistency.
- Return the chicken to the pan and toss it in the glaze. Keep cooking for a few more minutes until the chicken is glossy and caramelized.
- Sprinkle with dried herbs if desired and serve.
How to Serve Honey Chicken
Serve Honey Chicken with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the tasty glaze. You can also pair it with fresh vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a well-rounded meal. Adding some sesame seeds on top will give it an extra crunch and flavor.
How to Store Honey Chicken
To store leftover Honey Chicken, let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Honey Chicken
- Make sure to cut the chicken into even strips for uniform cooking.
- For more flavor, marinate the chicken with soy sauce and honey for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you like a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots while cooking the chicken. This will not only enhance the flavors but also add nutrients to the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well too! Just be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out.
2. What can I use instead of honey?
If you want a lower-calorie option, you can use brown sugar or agave syrup instead of honey.
3. Can I make Honey Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
4. How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Enjoy your homemade Honey Chicken!
Honey Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breast, cut into strips Can use thighs or breast based on preference.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive oil) For cooking the chicken.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar Adjust sweetness to taste.
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening) To create a glaze.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until they are browned on both sides and nearly cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cooking
- In the same pan, add soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until it starts to thicken slightly.
- Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens to a glaze-like consistency.
- Return the chicken to the pan and toss it in the glaze. Keep cooking for a few more minutes until the chicken is glossy and caramelized.
- Sprinkle with dried herbs if desired and serve.