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
- Cut Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch in size.
- 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
- Heat Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot and shimmering.
- 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.
- 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
- Reduce Heat: Reduce the heat to medium.
- 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).
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- 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
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Add the cooked chicken pieces back to the skillet with the thickened sauce.
- 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
- Garnish: Transfer the Sticky Honey Chicken to a serving plate or individual bowls. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Serve hot with your favorite sides.