Description:
This Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory glaze made with honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner, delivering restaurant-quality flavors in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs or breast, cut into strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable or olive oil
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated to enhance the flavor penetration during cooking. For best results, allow the chicken to sit for about 10 minutes after seasoning.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken strips in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In the same skillet, add the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir the mixture well to combine the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly and the garlic and ginger release their aromatic flavors.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This slurry will act as a thickening agent for the glaze. Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to a glaze-like consistency, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Caramelize
Return the partially cooked chicken to the skillet with the thickened glaze. Toss the chicken in the glaze, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Continue cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is fully cooked and the glaze is glossy and caramelized. The glaze should cling to the chicken, creating a sticky and flavorful coating.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is fully coated and caramelized, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The sweet and savory glaze is irresistible.
- Versatile: Works with chicken thighs or breast.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with both kids and adults.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over steamed rice or quinoa.
- Pair with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
- Serve with noodles for a comforting meal.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Add a side of steamed greens such as bok choy or gai lan.
Tips:
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Adjust the amount of honey to suit your sweetness preference.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If the glaze becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water to thin it out.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information: (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 500mg
Conclusion:
This Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines the best of both worlds: simplicity and flavor. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. With its sweet and savory glaze, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful blend of honey, garlic, and ginger in every bite.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help it brown better in the pan.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet with a bit of extra glaze to keep it moist.
Q3: What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
A: You can add a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, or carrots. Add them to the skillet after searing the chicken and cook until tender-crisp before adding the glaze.
Q4: Is there a substitute for rice vinegar?
A: If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work well in the recipe.
Q5: Can I bake the chicken instead of searing it in a pan?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned chicken strips on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Then, toss the baked chicken in the glaze before serving.
