Quick Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe 15 Minutes Easy Homemade Dinner
A quick and easy honey garlic chicken recipe ready in just 15 minutes, featuring a sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes perfectly for a tender, flavorful dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons honey (mild, runny honey like clover recommended)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (can substitute apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
- Optional: fresh chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks (about 1-inch pieces). In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer without crowding the pan. Cook without moving for 3 minutes until the underside is golden brown.
- Flip chicken and cook another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F). Chicken should feel firm but juicy.
- Pour the honey garlic mixture over the chicken. Stir gently and bring to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the pan. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes, until glossy and coating the chicken evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Notes
Use a heavy-bottom skillet for better heat retention and a golden crust. Keep heat medium-high but avoid burning the honey. Add a splash of water or extra soy sauce if the sauce thickens too fast. Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy. Garlic should be added to the sauce to avoid bitterness. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. For a spicy twist, add Sriracha or fresh chili. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze nicely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Protein: 25
Keywords: honey garlic chicken, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, 15 minute meal, honey garlic sauce, weeknight dinner, simple chicken recipe