Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry – Quick & Delicious Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Honey garlic chicken stir-fry is a perfect meal for busy weeknights or any evening when you’re looking for quick and delicious food. This dish combines tender chicken with crunchy vegetables and a sweet-and-savory sauce that will please everyone at the table. The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, it’s a colorful dish packed with flavor and nutrients. By making this stir-fry, you can enjoy a wholesome dinner that’s done in just 30 minutes.

Eating right doesn’t have to be a chore, and this honey garlic chicken stir-fry proves that you can whip up a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The key here is fresh ingredients, quick cooking techniques, and a homemade sauce that enhances all the flavors. You can even customize the veggies and adjust the sweetness or spice level according to your preferences.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

Ingredients

1. 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs – cut into bite-sized pieces
2. Salt, pepper, and garlic powder – ½ tsp each, for seasoning chicken
3. 1 tbsp cornstarch
4. 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
5. 1 tsp sesame oil
6. 1 medium zucchini – sliced
7. ½ cup chopped bell pepper – use any color you prefer for added sweetness
8. ½ white onion – chopped
9. 3 cloves garlic – minced
10. 1 tsp ginger – minced
11. ⅓ cup honey
12. ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
13. ¼ cup chicken broth
14. 1 tbsp rice vinegar
15. 1 tsp sesame oil
16. ¼ tsp red pepper flakes – optional, for a bit of heat
17. 1 tbsp cornstarch

Directions

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

1. Start by taking your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure all pieces are evenly coated to enhance the flavor.
3. Sprinkle one tablespoon of cornstarch over the seasoned chicken and mix well until all the pieces are coated. This will help to create a nice texture when the chicken is cooked.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, and one teaspoon of sesame oil.
2. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until the honey is fully dissolved. If you are using red pepper flakes, add them in too. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
3. Set this sauce mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat up.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced zucchini, chopped bell pepper, and chopped onion.
3. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they become slightly tender but still crunchy.
4. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and stir for an additional minute until they become fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Move the stir-fried vegetables to one side of the skillet.
2. Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the open side of the skillet.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Add the Sauce and Vegetables

1. Once the chicken is cooked, mix the vegetables back into the skillet.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture.
3. Stir everything together, ensuring the sauce evenly coats the chicken and veggies.
4. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. If you want a thicker sauce, you can mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the pan.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

To serve honey garlic chicken stir-fry, you can plate it over a bed of rice, couscous, or noodles. The grains or pasta will soak up the delicious sauce, creating a more filling meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal. You may choose to serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or another green vegetable to make a complete meal.

If you want to prepare a balanced and colorful plate, arrange the chicken and veggies in sections on the plate. This not only looks beautiful but will tempt everyone to dig in. For a casual approach, you can serve it directly in the skillet on the dining table, allowing everyone to help themselves.

How to Store Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

If you have any leftovers, storing honey garlic chicken stir-fry is simple. Allow it to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last for 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat it in individual portions in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stir-fry. Just make sure to separate it into serving sizes and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your vegetables and chicken, the better the dish will taste.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet or wok isn’t large enough, cook the chicken in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying.
3. Adjust Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match the vegetables according to your taste. Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots can also work well.
4. Customize the Sauce: If you like it sweeter, add more honey. For a savory punch, increase the soy sauce.
5. Cooking Time: Be attentive to the cooking time, especially for the chicken, to prevent it from overcooking and becoming dry.

Variation

This recipe is very adaptable! If you are looking for a different spin, consider these variations:

1. Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken thighs with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein source.
2. Vegetable Options: Add other vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms based on what you have on hand.
3. Gluten-Free Version: To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the cornstarch does not contain any gluten.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breast if you prefer. It will cook faster but can be prone to drying out, so be careful not to overcook it.

2. Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

3. How can I make it less sweet?
If you find the sauce too sweet for your taste, reduce the amount of honey and increase the soy sauce for a more savory flavor.

4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this honey garlic chicken stir-fry is great for meal prep! Just prepare portions and store them in the fridge or freezer as mentioned before.

5. How spicy is the dish?
The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. The red pepper flakes are optional, so if you do not prefer any heat, you can leave them out entirely.

By following this straightforward recipe, you can easily create a delicious and satisfying honey garlic chicken stir-fry meal for family or friends in no time! Enjoy cooking and savor the tasty results!

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