Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken served over fluffy white rice and garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

🍯 Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken

Flavour Quest Recipes

🍯 Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken

Sweet, savory, and irresistibly sticky, this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken is one of those recipes you'll find yourself making again and again. Tender pieces of chicken are coated in a glossy honey garlic sauce that's packed with flavor and perfect served over a bed of fluffy rice. It's quick enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce
  • cup honey
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger optional
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
Garnish
  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions

Method
 

👩‍🍳 Instructions
  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Toss with ¼ cup cornstarch until lightly coated.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, rice vinegar, ketchup, sesame oil, and ginger.
  5. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sticky glaze.
  8. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
  9. Serve immediately over rice.

Enjoying this recipe? You may also love my Comfort Dinner Guide — a simple collection of easy, cozy meal ideas for busy weeknights. It’s a helpful extra resource for those nights when you want something comforting without overthinking dinner.

⭐ Variations

Use chicken breasts instead of thighs.

Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.

Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or sriracha.

Substitute maple syrup for honey. Serve over noodles instead of rice.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Fried rice
  • Stir-fried vegetables
  • Roasted broccoli
  • Egg rolls
  • Asian cucumber salad

🥡 Storage

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, or microwave until warmed through.

👩‍🍳 Pro Tips

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
  • Let the sauce simmer until glossy and thick.
  • Garnish just before serving for the freshest presentation.

❓ FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them.

Is this recipe very sweet?

No. The soy sauce balances the honey, creating a sweet-savory glaze.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

What rice goes best with this?

Jasmine rice is our favorite, but basmati or brown rice work beautifully too.

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