Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this mouthwatering Honey Garlic Chicken recipe that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs glazed with a rich, sticky sauce that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary enthusiast, this Asian-inspired dish promises to be the star of your dinner table, delivering restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Ensure the chicken thighs are boneless and skinless for easier cooking and better texture.
- In a medium bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Whisk the mixture until well combined, creating a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the honey garlic marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce later.
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, reserving the marinade for later use. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely browned.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, pour in the reserved marinade and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering marinade, stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to thicken for about 2-3 minutes, until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the thickened sauce to ensure it is well coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Once the chicken is fully coated in the sauce, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the honey garlic chicken to a serving platter.
- Garnish the dish with sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve the honey garlic chicken warm, accompanied by steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for the full 2 hours if time permits. The longer it sits, the more deeply the marinade will penetrate the meat.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees both safety and juiciness.
- Sauce Consistency: When making the cornstarch slurry, whisk it thoroughly to prevent lumps. Add it gradually to the sauce, stirring constantly for a smooth, glossy finish.
- Skillet Selection: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or non-stick pan to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Garnish Wisdom: Toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before sprinkling to enhance their nutty flavor and aroma.
- Meal Pairing: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Roasted vegetables make an excellent side dish to complete the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
