Updated June 2025: This recipe has been rewritten and retested by Chef Cory using fresh, real ingredients. Photos are currently being updated with real kitchen photography.
Incredible Honey Garlic Chicken – A Restaurant-Quality Meal in Just 25 Minutes
Get ready to make the best Honey Garlic Chicken of your life! Crispy, golden-brown chicken tossed in a sticky, garlicky, sweet-savory sauce that clings to every bite—this is the kind of dish that makes you forget takeout even exists. One pan, 25 minutes, and packed with bold, irresistible flavors. Let’s fire up the skillet and make something amazing!
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, which means we will earn a commission if you purchase through the links on this page. The product recommendations are solely based on our genuine opinions and experiences. Read the Full Affiliate Disclaimer Here
Sticky, Crispy, and Packed with Flavor – This Honey and Garlic Chicken Will Be Your New Favorite Dinner
This honey garlic chicken hits that perfect balance of sweet and savory — with juicy bites of golden-seared chicken tossed in a glossy, garlicky glaze.
It’s simple to make, flavorful, and always a family favorite around here.
I usually serve it with steamed rice and something green on the side, but it’s versatile enough to go with just about anything. One pan, a handful of ingredients, and big flavor — that’s the sweet spot.
But wait—it’s not just insanely delicious; it’s also good for you! Garlic is known for boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation, while honey is a natural antibacterial powerhouse that gives this dish just the right amount of sweetness without refined sugar.
So, you get a protein-packed, nutrient-rich meal that hits all the right flavor notes—and no guilt attached. Win-win.
Table of Contents
A Quick Personal Story
The first time I made honey garlic chicken at home, it wasn’t because I wanted to—it was because my favorite takeout spot was closed (tragedy, I know).
I was craving that sweet, garlicky, crispy goodness, so I decided to wing it and make my own.
And let me tell you—I have not ordered it from a restaurant since.
The homemade version was so much better—fresher, bolder, and made with real ingredients. Plus, it’s cheaper (always a bonus).
Even my kids, who usually put up a fight when it comes to anything with garlic, devour this chicken like it’s candy.
So, if you’re tired of spending money on takeout when you could be making something fresher, tastier, and healthier at home, let’s get cooking!
What Makes This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe So Special?
✔️ Crispy Yet Tender – The cornstarch coating creates a light, crispy crust while keeping the inside super juicy.
✔️ Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Sweet honey, umami-rich soy sauce, and garlicky goodness make every bite chef’s kiss.
✔️ Fast & Easy – One pan, 25 minutes, zero stress.
✔️ Healthier Than Takeout – No preservatives, no MSG, just fresh, real food.
Substitutions for Honey Garlic Chicken
Need to tweak the recipe? No problem! Here are some easy swaps to fit your dietary needs and pantry availability:
1. Chicken Thighs → Chicken Breasts or Tofu
- Chicken breasts work well—just pound them evenly for tenderness.
- Firm tofu is a great plant-based option. Press it first to remove moisture, then coat and pan-fry for a crispy texture.
2. Cornstarch → Arrowroot Starch or All-Purpose Flour
- Arrowroot starch is a perfect gluten-free alternative.
- All-purpose flour works, but it won’t get quite as crispy.
3. Soy Sauce → Tamari or Coconut Aminos
- Tamari is a gluten-free swap with a similar depth of flavor.
- Coconut aminos is lower in sodium and slightly sweeter.
4. Honey → Maple Syrup or Brown Sugar
- Maple syrup gives a subtle, earthy sweetness.
- Brown sugar will work in a pinch—add a splash of water to help dissolve it.
5. Rice Vinegar → Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice
- Apple cider vinegar provides the same mild acidity.
- Lemon juice adds brightness but use a little less to avoid overpowering the dish.
6. Sesame Oil → Olive Oil or Avocado Oil
- Olive oil won’t have the same nutty depth, but it keeps the sauce rich.
- Avocado oil is a neutral, high-heat option.
Feel free to mix and match—this recipe is super forgiving while still delivering that signature sticky, garlicky goodness!
What to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken
This sticky, crispy, and flavor-packed Honey Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Whether you’re looking for something classic, low-carb, or extra indulgent, here are some perfect pairings:
Classic Pairings
✔️ Steamed Jasmine Rice – The ultimate way to soak up that delicious honey garlic sauce.
✔️ Garlic Butter Broccoli – Adds a fresh, slightly crisp contrast to the sweet-savory chicken.
✔️ Stir-Fried Vegetables – A mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots adds color and crunch.
Low-Carb Options
✔️ Cauliflower Rice – Light and fluffy, with a mild flavor that won’t overpower the dish.
✔️ Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – A great way to add more greens while keeping things light.
✔️ Lettuce Wraps – For a fresh, handheld way to enjoy the chicken without the extra carbs.
Something Extra Special
✔️ Coconut Rice – A lightly sweet, creamy side that complements the bold flavors.
✔️ Sesame Garlic Noodles – Tossed in a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil for an extra umami kick.
✔️ Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the sticky honey garlic sauce.
Mix and match your favorites for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!
Tools & Equipment
✔️ Large Skillet or Pan – Preferably cast iron or stainless steel for the best sear.
✔️ Mixing Bowls – For dredging the chicken and mixing the sauce.
✔️ Tongs – Makes flipping the chicken easier.
✔️ Whisk – For smoothly mixing the sauce.
✔️ Microplane or Grater – For fresh ginger (way better than powdered!).
✔️ Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – To prep the chicken, garlic, and green onions.
✔️ Measuring Cups & Spoons – Precision makes perfect.
✔️ Small Bowl for Cornstarch Slurry – Helps thicken the sauce just right.
✔️ Paper Towels – To pat the chicken dry before cooking (crispy chicken starts here!).
Optional: A rice cooker if you’re serving it with jasmine rice.
Now you’re set—let’s cook! 🔥
The Recipe: Honey Garlic Chicken
This Honey Garlic Chicken is next-level delicious—crispy, juicy, and coated in the most addictive sticky-sweet garlic sauce.
It’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami with a touch of spice. Serve it over rice, veggies, or straight off the pan (I won’t judge).
Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes380
kcalThis Honey Garlic Chicken is crispy, juicy, and coated in a sticky-sweet garlic sauce with the perfect balance of honey, soy sauce, and fresh ginger. A quick and easy dish packed with bold umami flavors, a hint of spice, and just the right amount of caramelized sweetness—ready in just 25 minutes!
Keep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless breasts (Or Thighs)
½ cup cornstarch
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon avocado oil
- For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
4 cloves garlic, minced
⅓ cup raw honey
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water
- For Garnish:
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced
Directions
- 1. Prep the Chicken
-Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
-In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Dredge each piece of chicken in the mixture. - 2. Cook the Chicken
-Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
-Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden. Lower heat and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. - 3. Make the Sauce
-In the same pan, sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
-Stir in honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil.
Mix cornstarch and water, then add to the sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes until thick. - 4. Coat the Chicken And Serve
-Return the chicken to the pan, tossing in the sauce. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
-Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. - If you tried this recipe and loved it, do me a quick favor—give it a 5-star rating and leave a comment below! It really helps more people find the recipe, and I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
Did you make this recipe?
Tag @Dealiciousness on Instagram and hashtag it with #Dealiciousness
Like this recipe?
Follow @Dealiciousness on Pinterest
Join our Facebook Group!
Follow Dealiciousness LLC on Facebook
Why This Recipe Works:
✔️ Perfectly Crispy Chicken – The cornstarch coating locks in moisture while crisping up beautifully.
✔️ Balanced Flavors – The honey and soy sauce give it the perfect blend of sweet and savory.
✔️ Simple Yet Gourmet – A few fresh ingredients create restaurant-quality results.
Make this once, and you’ll never order takeout again! Let me know how it turns out!
Final Thoughts – This Honey Garlic Chicken Will Be Your New Favorite
Let’s be honest—once you make this Honey Garlic Chicken, there’s no going back.
The crispy, golden-brown chicken, the perfectly balanced sticky-sweet garlic sauce, and the fact that it all comes together in just 25 minutes? It’s a total game-changer.
This recipe isn’t just about great flavor—it’s about taking control of your food and making something fresher, healthier, and way more satisfying than takeout.
Plus, it’s so easy to customize—spicy, extra garlicky, low-carb—you name it.
So, if you’re looking for a new go-to weeknight meal, or you just want to impress your family with something that tastes straight out of a restaurant, this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is it.
Tried It? Let’s See It!
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment below or tag me on Instagram at #dealiciousness so I can see your delicious creation.
Now, what are you waiting for? Go grab your ingredients and make this tonight—you won’t regret it!
FAQs – Everything About Honey Garlic Chicken
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! While chicken thighs stay juicier and have more flavor, chicken breasts work great too. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness before cooking to keep them tender and prevent dryness.
2. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and use arrowroot starch instead of cornstarch for dredging. The taste stays just as delicious with no gluten involved!
3. Can I meal prep or store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep the sauce from getting too thick. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crispy texture!
