HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE

HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN RECIPE

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For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 1/4 cup water (if using cornstarch)

Garnishes (optional):

  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

Kitchen Equipment:

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs or spatula

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pan. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

  1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and rice vinegar.
  2. Optional Cornstarch Slurry: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Set aside.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

  1. Add Sauce to the Pan: Using the same pan, lower the heat to medium and pour the honey garlic mixture into the skillet.
  2. Simmer: Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to cook and the sauce to thicken slightly. If you’re using the cornstarch slurry, add it now and stir until the sauce thickens to your liking.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

  1. Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the pan, coating it well with the sauce. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring that the chicken absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
  2. Serve: Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Spoon extra sauce over the top for maximum flavor.

Tips and Variations:

  1. Chicken Thighs or Breasts?: Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and are more forgiving if overcooked, but chicken breasts work perfectly if you prefer leaner meat.
  2. Adjust Sweetness: For a less sweet version, reduce the honey slightly. If you like it sweeter, add a little extra honey.
  3. Add Heat: For a spicy kick, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha into the sauce.
  4. Vegetarian Option: You can easily swap out the chicken for tofu, mushrooms, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.
  5. Make It a Meal: Serve the honey garlic chicken with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. Add a side of roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans to complete the meal.

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