10 Honey Garlic Chicken Recipes for a Sweet & Savory Twist

Image for: 10 Honey Garlic Chicken Recipes for a Sweet & Savory Twist

If you're craving a sweet and savory twist for dinner, honey garlic chicken is the way to go! Picture tender chicken thighs baked to perfection, or sizzling skewers grilled with vegetables. Try a quick stir-fry with vibrant veggies or indulge in a comforting pasta dish. There's also the slow cooker option for effortless flavor. Each recipe is packed with mouthwatering goodness. Keep exploring to find your next delicious creation!

Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

sweet and savory stir fry

Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a satisfying meal. This flavorful stir-fry combines tender pieces of chicken with vibrant vegetables, all coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that adds a delightful depth to each bite. Not only is it easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, but it also allows for customization with your favorite veggies and proteins.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can serve it over a bed of steamed rice, noodles, or even quinoa to create a complete and hearty dish. The combination of honey and garlic provides a wonderful balance between sweetness and umami, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 carrots, julienned
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add in the garlic, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots, cooking until the vegetables are slightly tender.

In a small bowl, mix the honey and soy sauce, then pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until everything is well coated. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or green onions.

When preparing Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry, a few tips can elevate your dish. First, make sure to slice the chicken thinly, as it allows for quicker cooking and better absorption of the sauce. Using fresh vegetables adds not only flavor but also nutrition and color to your dish.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables, but remember to add them in stages according to their cooking times for ideal crunchiness. Finally, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers to the stir-fry for an extra layer of flavor.

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

honey garlic chicken thighs

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and easy choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of sweet honey and aromatic garlic creates a succulent glaze that caramelizes perfectly in the oven. Using chicken thighs guarantees that the meat remains moist and tender, making every bite truly delightful.

This dish isn't only simple to prepare but also has the added advantage of minimal cleanup, as it all cooks in one pan. Preparing this dish is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can serve it alongside steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.

With just a few ingredients and some straightforward steps, you can have a savory dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
  • Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and ground ginger. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, making sure they're well coated.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown. Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through cooking for extra flavor.

When making Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs, you can enhance the flavor by marinating the chicken in the honey garlic sauce for 30 minutes to a few hours before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can simmer the leftover marinade in a saucepan for a few minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency and serve it drizzled over the chicken just before serving.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

sweet and savory skewers

Honey garlic chicken skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion, whether it's a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a beautifully balanced marinade that brings out the tenderness of the chicken. The skewers not only make for an appealing presentation but also help infuse even more flavor into the meat as it cooks on the grill or in the oven.

To prepare these skewers, you'll want to start by marinating the chicken to guarantee every bite is packed with flavor. This dish is versatile enough that you can also add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, to the skewers for added color and nutrition. Whether grilled, baked, or broiled, honey garlic chicken skewers are sure to impress family and friends alike.

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8-10 skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes beforehand)

In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, salt, and pepper to create the marinade. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, making sure they're well coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for a few hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space in between each piece, and grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.

To enhance the flavors even more, consider garnishing the finished skewers with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving. Also, if you'd like to make the dish even heartier, feel free to serve the skewers over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad. Always confirm that chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe dining, and remember, you can adjust the sweetness of the marinade by adding more or less honey according to your taste!

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

slow cooker chicken recipe

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful and easy meal that brings together the rich flavors of honey, garlic, and soy sauce to create a dish that's sure to please everyone at the table. This recipe requires minimal preparation and lets your slow cooker do the heavy lifting, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

The chicken becomes tender and flavorful as it slowly cooks in the sweet and savory sauce, infusing every bite with deliciousness. To enhance the overall experience, feel free to serve this honey garlic chicken over steamed rice, quinoa, or alongside an assortment of roasted vegetables.

The dish is versatile enough to suit various taste preferences, and with just a few ingredients, you can whip up a fantastic dinner that will leave your family or guests coming back for seconds.

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Place the chicken thighs or breasts at the bottom of a slow cooker, and in a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Pour the mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat it well.

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Once done, shred the chicken inside the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce before serving.

For best results, avoid opening the lid while the chicken is cooking to maintain the heat and moisture. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once it's cooked and let the sauce simmer on high for about 10-15 minutes to reduce.

Additionally, leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making this dish a great option for meal prep. Don't forget to try different garnishes like fresh cilantro or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor!

Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli

sweet and savory dish

Honey garlic chicken and broccoli is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory essence of garlic, resulting in a culinary experience that's both delectable and visually appealing. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests with a simple yet elegant meal. The vibrant green broccoli not only adds color to the plate but also provides essential nutrients, making this dish both tasty and healthy.

The method for preparing honey garlic chicken and broccoli is straightforward and doesn't require extensive cooking skills, making it accessible for anyone. With its rapid cooking time, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory-sweet glaze is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until they're golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once the chicken is nearly done, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Stir in the honey and soy sauce, allowing the sauce to bubble slightly before adding the broccoli florets. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli steam for about 3-4 minutes until it's tender yet crisp. Serve the honey garlic chicken and broccoli over cooked rice or noodles for a fulfilling meal.

For ideal flavor, consider marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and a bit of garlic before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken more deeply.

Additionally, you can adjust the sweetness of the dish by varying the amount of honey to suit your personal taste. Don't hesitate to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for additional color and nutrition. Enjoy your cooking experience!

One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Rice

easy honey garlic dish

One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food that brings warm flavors and satisfying textures to the table. This dish boasts tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce, paired with fluffy rice that absorbs all the delightful flavors while cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick family dinner, this recipe is both simple to prepare and wonderfully delicious, promising to delight everyone at the dinner table.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — everything cooks in one pan, minimizing cleanup while allowing the chicken and rice to meld together in a harmony of flavors. The honey garlic sauce provides a perfect balance of sweetness and umami, while the rice takes on a lovely golden hue from the seasoning. You'll be grateful for this meal that not only satisfies appetites but also leaves your kitchen smelling heavenly.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

In a large skillet or pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil and add the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Pour in the honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce, stirring to coat the chicken evenly.

Add the rice and chicken broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid. Fluff the rice and serve with chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking tips to keep in mind: Confirm that the chicken is evenly coated with the honey garlic sauce for maximum flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Additionally, you can customize the dish by tossing in some vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color. Remember to let the dish rest for a few moments after cooking before serving, allowing the flavors to settle. Enjoy your one-pan meal!

Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

sticky sweet chicken wings

Honey garlic chicken wings make for the perfect appetizer, party snack, or even a flavorful main dish. The combination of the sweet and sticky honey with the rich, aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Whether you're preparing them for a game day gathering or a cozy family dinner, these wings are sure to impress with their shiny finish and tantalizing aroma. To achieve the best flavor, marinating the chicken wings beforehand allows the honey and garlic to infuse deeply.

You can choose to bake, grill, or fry the wings according to your preference, ensuring that they're crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or simply enjoy them as they are—the flavors are rich enough to stand alone.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

To prepare the wings, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, onion powder, and vegetable oil to create the marinade.

Add the chicken wings to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor. Spread the wings in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, then bake for about 25-30 minutes, basting them with extra marinade halfway through, until they're golden brown and crispy.

When making honey garlic chicken wings, remember that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the wings and your oven. For extra crispiness, consider broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Keep a close eye on them during this time to prevent burning. Additionally, don't hesitate to adjust the honey and garlic quantities to suit your taste preference; adding a sprinkle of chili flakes can also give the wings an exciting kick if you enjoy some heat!

Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken

honey garlic chicken recipe

Grilled honey garlic chicken is a delightful dish that beautifully marries the sweetness of honey with the savory notes of garlic, creating a lacquered glaze that caramelizes perfectly on the grill. The method not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a smoky depth to the chicken that you won't want to miss.

Perfect for summer barbecues or a weeknight dinner, this dish can be served alongside a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

The key to a successful grilled honey garlic chicken lies in marinating the chicken properly, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat. A good marinade not only infuses flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites.

Whether using chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks, the marinade works wonders in guaranteeing each piece is succulent and packed with flavor. Once grilled to perfection, this dish is sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Marinate the chicken by combining honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, salt, and apple cider vinegar in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Add the chicken and verify it's well-coated with the marinade.

Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours for enhanced flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the outside is nicely charred.

When grilling honey garlic chicken, be sure to watch for flare-ups as the honey can cause the chicken to caramelize quickly and burn. If you're concerned about sticking, oil your grill grates before cooking.

Additionally, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling to guarantee it stays juicy. Finally, feel free to adjust the sweetness of the marinade by adding more or less honey, depending on your preference. Enjoy your deliciously grilled creation!

Honey Garlic Chicken With Vegetables

sweet and savory chicken

Honey garlic chicken with vegetables is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken with an array of colorful vegetables, all cooked in a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce. This recipe isn't only quick to prepare but also perfect for a weeknight dinner, providing a balanced meal that's pleasing to both the eye and the palate.

The sweet flavor of honey complements the savory notes of garlic, enhancing the overall taste while the vegetables add freshness and vibrancy. To make this dish even more enjoyable, you can adjust the vegetables to your preference, whether you choose to include bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots.

The honey garlic sauce clings to the chicken and vegetables beautifully, creating a delightful glaze that's both appetizing and satisfying. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a heartier meal that the whole family will love.

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell pepper, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice or noodles for serving

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Return the chicken to the skillet and add the minced garlic, honey, and soy sauce. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

When preparing this dish, you can enhance the flavors further by marinating the chicken in the honey garlic mixture for about 30 minutes before cooking. This not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with the robust flavors.

Additionally, feel free to garnish the dish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for a decorative touch. If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the taste profile and give your dish an exciting kick.

Honey Garlic Chicken Pasta

sweet and savory dish

Honey garlic chicken pasta is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic, creating a sauce that beautifully coats tender chicken and pasta. This recipe isn't only quick and easy to prepare but also offers a satisfying meal that can please the whole family. You can use any pasta of your choice, whether it's spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, making it a versatile option for any weeknight dinner.

In addition to the harmonious blend of flavors, honey garlic chicken pasta is packed with nutrients from the addition of vegetables such as bell peppers and broccoli, which can also enhance the dish's visual appeal. The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for beginner cooks and busy individuals looking for a delicious and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
  • 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1 cup broccoli, cut into florets
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic, then pour this mixture over the chicken in the pan. Add the bell peppers and broccoli, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pan, stirring everything to combine well. For an extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.

Additionally, you can swap out the vegetables for your favorites, such as snap peas or zucchini, to suit your tastes. If you prefer a creamier pasta, a splash of heavy cream could be added towards the end of cooking for a rich and creamy finish.

Don't forget to taste and adjust seasonings to your liking before serving!