Description
Sticky Honey Chicken is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a luscious honey glaze. With a balance of tangy and umami flavors, this quick and easy dish transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. Serve it over rice or alongside veggies for a family-friendly dinner or an impressive weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 500 g (1 lb) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- ⅓ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
For Garnish:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
- Ensure each piece is evenly coated for a crispy texture when cooked.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Sticky Honey Sauce:
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil (if using), garlic, and grated ginger.
- Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat the pieces evenly in the sauce.
- Let it heat through for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the Sticky Honey Chicken to a serving plate.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
Notes
- Use Boneless Chicken: Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well for a leaner option.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the Sauce: Add more vinegar for tanginess or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Toast Sesame Seeds: Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and adds crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired