There is something utterly irresistible about this Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe that turns simple chicken pieces into a luscious, shiny masterpiece of sweet and savory goodness. With its perfectly sticky glaze that clings to every bite, this dish easily becomes a weeknight dinner favorite or a delightful way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The balance of honey sweetness, tangy vinegar, and umami-packed soy sauce creates a sensory experience guaranteed to make you swoon and come back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward achieving that mouthwatering balance of flavor and texture that defines this sticky honey chicken recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from tenderizing the chicken to creating that glossy glaze that makes your taste buds sing.
- 500 g chicken thighs or breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken cut into bite-sized pieces ensures quick cooking and tender bites.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch: This dusting helps create a beautifully crisp exterior on the chicken.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and depth.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Perfect for frying the chicken with a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the sauce.
- 1/3 cup honey: The star of the show, providing that irresistibly sweet and sticky glaze.
- 3 tbsp soy sauce: Adds a savory umami punch and salty balance to the sweetness.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar: Offers a hint of tang that brightens the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional): Contributes a toasty, nutty aroma enhancing the dish’s depth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic amps up the aromatic profile and adds savory warmth.
- 1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional): Brings a subtle zing and freshness that complements the honey glaze.
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water: This slurry thickens the sauce to the perfect sticky consistency.
- Toasted sesame seeds: For a nutty crunch and beautiful garnish finish.
- Sliced green onions: Adds a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant color contrast.
How to Make Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easier eating. Toss the chicken with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper. This light coating not only seasons but also gives the chicken a tender-crisp texture when cooked, making each piece delightfully crispy on the outside while juicy inside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Lay the chicken pieces in a single layer, giving them room to sear beautifully without overcrowding. Cook each side for 4 to 5 minutes until you see a gorgeous golden crust forming, and the chicken is fully cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside, saving that delicious fond at the bottom of the pan for later sauce magic.
Step 3: Whip Up the Sticky Honey Sauce
Lower your heat to medium and in the same skillet, pour in 1/3 cup honey, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon vinegar (your choice of rice or apple cider), 1 teaspoon sesame oil if using, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. The mixture will start to bubble and fill your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that’s both sweet and savory.
Step 4: Thicken the Glaze
Now, slowly add your cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the simmering sauce. Continue stirring for 1 to 2 minutes as the sauce thickens into a luscious, sticky glaze. This step is crucial for that clingy coating that makes this Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe so unforgettable.
Step 5: Combine and Glaze the Chicken
Return your cooked chicken to the skillet and toss vigorously, ensuring every bite is enveloped in that shimmering honey glaze. Let it cook together for another minute, allowing the chicken to soak in all the saucy goodness before you serve.
How to Serve Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Never underestimate the power of the perfect garnish. Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty aroma that complements the glaze beautifully. Sliced green onions bring a fresh pop of color and a subtle sharpness that cuts through the sweetness, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy.
Side Dishes
Sticky Honey Chicken pairs wonderfully with simple steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up the sauce like a dream. For a green side, stir-fried broccoli or snap peas are crisp and vibrant accompaniments that balance the richness of the dish. You can also serve it alongside a fresh Asian-style slaw to add even more texture and refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe up a notch by serving it over a bed of fluffy quinoa for a protein-packed alternative or tossing in roasted cashews for an added crunch. Using banana leaves as a serving vessel or presenting it in colorful bowls with edible flowers can turn a simple dinner into an Insta-worthy feast. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle extra chopped green onions or drizzle a little sesame oil just before serving to add layers of flavor and style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sticky glaze may thicken as it cools, but a quick stir during reheating will bring back its irresistible shine and texture.
Freezing
Sticky Honey Chicken freezes beautifully and can be kept in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce together, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain that glossy coating.
Reheating
To bring your Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe back to life, reheat on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and to restore the smooth sticky texture. If reheating in the microwave, cover loosely and stir halfway through to ensure even warming and crispness retention.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well in this recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs. Cutting into smaller, uniform pieces helps keep them juicy.
Is there a substitute for cornstarch?
You can swap cornstarch with arrowroot powder or potato starch if you prefer. These alternatives also create a great crispy texture and thickening effect, keeping that lovely sticky coating intact.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use firm tofu or seitan instead of chicken, and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The sauce flavors remain deliciously similar, providing the same sticky, sweet, and savory experience.
How spicy is this Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe?
This recipe is designed to be sweet and savory with gentle warmth from black pepper and ginger. If you love heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce can kick things up nicely.
What kind of vinegar is best to use?
Rice vinegar is preferred for its mild and slightly sweet character, which balances the honey well. Apple cider vinegar is a fine substitute and offers a slightly sharper tang. Both work beautifully to brighten the dish.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, a Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe that’s straightforward, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to dive in and make this glowing, sticky dish that feels so comforting yet special every time you serve it. Once you try this recipe, I promise it will become one of your top go-to meals, bringing joy to your kitchen and smiles to your table.
Print
Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Delicious sticky honey chicken made with tender bite-sized pieces of chicken thighs or breasts cooked in a sweet and savory honey soy glaze. This quick and easy skillet recipe combines honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 500 g (1 lb) chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
Garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil (if using), minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir the mixture and bring it to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Slowly add the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) into the simmering sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and toss them in the thickened sauce until they are fully coated and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top before serving. Enjoy your sticky honey chicken over rice or your choice of side.
Notes
- Using boneless and skinless chicken thighs will yield juicier, more flavorful results, but chicken breasts work well too.
- The sesame oil and fresh ginger add extra depth of flavor but are optional if you don’t have them on hand.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
- Make sure to mix the cornstarch with water first to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- This dish pairs nicely with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles.
