Description
Sticky honey chicken brings a delightful harmony of sweet and savory flavors from Asian cuisine. Succulent chicken pieces glazed with golden honey create a simple yet irresistible meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cooking and Thickening Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions
Instructions
- Sear chicken pieces in a sizzling skillet until they develop a rich, caramelized exterior with golden-brown edges, approximately 4-5 minutes per side.
- Whisk together a vibrant glaze combining sweet honey, umami-rich soy sauce, tangy ketchup, acidic rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a sprinkle of fiery red pepper flakes.
- Cascade the aromatic sauce over the perfectly seared chicken, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify during a gentle 5-minute simmer.
- Create a smooth cornstarch slurry and fold it into the bubbling sauce, stirring continuously until the liquid transforms into a glossy, clingy coating that hugs each chicken morsel.
- Elevate the dish with a delicate garnish of toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions, creating a visually stunning presentation that promises a burst of flavor when served alongside steamed rice or crisp vegetables.
Notes
- Ensure chicken pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking and prevent burning or undercooking.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels and make the dish healthier for those watching sodium intake.
- Swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version of the recipe.
- Reduce red pepper flakes for a milder flavor or completely omit for kids or those sensitive to spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg