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Sticky Honey Chicken: A Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner

Learn how to make irresistible Sticky Honey Chicken! This recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful, sweet and savory honey sauce. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless 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 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

For Garnish:

  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Creating a Crispy Coating

  1. Cut Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch in size.
  2. Toss with Cornstarch: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. The cornstarch will help create a light, crispy exterior when the chicken is cooked.

2. Cook the Chicken: Searing for Flavor and Tenderness

  1. Heat Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot and shimmering.
  2. Cook Chicken: Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
    • Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet, or the chicken will steam instead of brown. Work in batches if necessary.
  3. Set Aside: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Make the Sauce: A Sweet, Savory, and Sticky Glaze

  1. Reduce Heat: Reduce the heat to medium.
  2. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In the same skillet (no need to clean it), combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), sesame oil (if using), minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using).
  3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  4. Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. This should take about 1-2 minutes.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Coating with Flavor

  1. Return Chicken to Skillet: Add the cooked chicken pieces back to the skillet with the thickened sauce.
  2. Toss to Coat: Toss the chicken in the sauce until it’s evenly coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Serve and Garnish: The Finishing Touches

  1. Garnish: Transfer the Sticky Honey Chicken to a serving plate or individual bowls. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.
  2. Serve Immediately: Serve hot with your favorite sides.