Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Make this flavorful honey garlic chicken recipe for an easy and delicious weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared to perfection, paired with tender broccoli and bell peppers, and coated in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce. Perfect for serving over rice, this versatile dish is quick to prepare and customizable for any taste. Find tips, variations, and serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3-4 tbsp peanut oil (or substitute with olive oil)

Sauce

• 3/4 cup beef broth
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup cold water

Veggies

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets

For Serving

• 3 cups cooked rice (any type)
• Chopped green onions

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Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients except for the cornstarch mixture. Set aside.

Prep the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 2-3 thinner pieces. Place the chicken between plastic wrap and pound to 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
2. Pat the chicken dry, then season both sides with salt and pepper. Coat the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.

Sear the Chicken

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in batches, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Set the chicken aside to rest.

Cook the Vegetables and Sauce

1. Wipe out excess oil from the skillet, leaving behind the browned bits for extra flavor (the “fond”).
2. Pour in the prepared sauce and add the red bell peppers and broccoli florets. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.

Thicken the Sauce

1. Bring the sauce to a boil. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water.
2. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce while stirring continuously. Reduce the heat to low once the desired consistency is reached.

Finish the Dish

1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to heat through.
2. Serve the chicken and vegetables over rice, garnished with green onions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Balanced Flavor: Sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and a hint of spice make this dish irresistible.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Satisfy your craving for takeout with this easy-to-make recipe.
• Versatile: Customize the veggies, spice level, or sauce thickness to suit your taste.

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Tips

• Pound the chicken evenly for quicker and more consistent cooking.
• Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.
• Don’t skip the “fond” left in the pan—it’s the secret to a richly flavored sauce.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Swap chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork for a different protein.
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef and chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly sauce.
• Add more veggies like snap peas, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition.

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FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and sear the chicken ahead. Reheat in the skillet before serving.

Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is mild, but you can adjust it by adding more or less hot sauce and red pepper flakes.

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Serving

• Serve with steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or vegetable fried rice.
• Pair with a side of spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.

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Suggestions

• Garnish with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
• For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or steamed greens.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving for a zesty twist.