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30-Min Honey Garlic Chicken

30-Min Honey Garlic Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Dinner Winner

Experience the harmony of honey and garlic with this 30-Min Honey Garlic Chicken recipe, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken Thighs The tender base that keeps this dish moist and flavorful.
For the Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Honey Provides natural sweetness; can substitute with maple syrup.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Adds umami; use tamari for gluten-free.
  • 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar Brightens sauce; apple cider vinegar can be used.
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Oil Infuses a nutty aroma; can substitute with olive oil.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Key for robust flavor; fresh is best.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (grated) Adds warmth; use ground ginger if necessary.
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch Essential for thickening; whisk with water.
  • 2 tbsp Water Needed for cornstarch slurry.
Optional Garnishes
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds Add crunch and visual appeal.
  • 2 stalks Green Onions Provides freshness; omit if desired.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy sear. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once shimmering, place the chicken thighs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
  2. Carefully flip the chicken thighs using tongs to prevent tearing. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, adjusting the heat if needed. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have a nice golden crust. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until fully combined. This mixture will create a fragrant sauce. Set it aside.
  4. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water. Whisk until smooth to create a slurry that will thicken your sauce.
  5. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet over medium heat. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Stir in the cornstarch slurry gradually, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. The sauce will become glossy and sticky.
  7. Serve the chicken thighs hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Pair with steamed rice or quinoa.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 28gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 690mgPotassium: 380mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is quick to prepare and versatile, allowing for gluten-free substitutions. Perfect for busy weeknights!

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