This honey chicken recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky honey-based sauce. Whether served over rice, noodles, or alongside veggies, this dish is easy to make and absolutely irresistible. It’s great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
1½ to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Honey Sauce
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, for color and tang)
1–2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
½ teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Serving
Cooked white rice or brown rice
Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken and toss until pieces are evenly coated.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in batches if needed and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3 – Make the Honey Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, ketchup (if using), sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
Step 4 – Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the honey sauce. Continue cooking for 1–2 minutes until the sauce fully glazes the chicken.
Step 5 – Serve
Remove from heat and serve the honey chicken hot over cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips for Best Results
Even pieces: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.