Easy 20-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken

Introduction

I recently tried making this Easy 20-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken, and let me tell you, it was an instant hit with the whole family. I love quick and easy meals, especially those that don’t compromise on flavor, and this recipe delivered just that! The chicken was perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a savory-sweet honey garlic sauce that was absolutely irresistible. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, couldn’t get enough of it, and my husband even asked for seconds! The best part is that it’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Here’s why this dish should be on your dinner rotation.

---

Why You’ll Love This Easy 20-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken

This honey garlic chicken recipe is one of those dishes that balances convenience and flavor perfectly. With only 20 minutes required from start to finish, it’s ideal for those times when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen but still want to serve a delicious, satisfying meal. The chicken is cooked to crispy perfection, and the honey garlic sauce adds a burst of sweet and savory flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this dish will impress both your taste buds and your schedule.

---

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless thighs)
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup, brown sugar, or light corn syrup if allergic to honey)
• 3 tablespoons water (cold)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar, or apple cider vinegar)
• ½ tablespoon regular soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (or potato starch/tapioca starch)

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   If you’re using bone-in chicken thighs, carefully debone the chicken by cutting around the bone with a paring knife. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Make the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, honey, water, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Stir well to mix the ingredients thoroughly. Set the sauce aside for later.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in the pan skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for about 2 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Add the Sauce:
   Reduce the heat to low-medium and pour the prepared honey garlic sauce into the pan around the chicken. Let the sauce simmer and thicken, flipping the chicken once to coat both sides in the sauce. Allow the skin to absorb the sauce for about 15 seconds before flipping it back.
5. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped green onions and transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Slice the chicken into smaller pieces, then serve!

---

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 340 kcal

---

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 14 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

---

How to Serve
Here are a few serving ideas to make this meal even more delightful:

• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
• Pair with a bed of rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Top the chicken with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
• Serve with a fresh salad to add some crunch and balance the richness of the chicken.
• Make it a meal prep option by adding some roasted potatoes and sautéed greens in your meal prep containers.

---

Additional Tips

1. Crispier Chicken: To get even crispier chicken skin, make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly before cooking. Pat it down with paper towels to remove any moisture.
2. Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey. For a tangier twist, add a bit more vinegar.
3. Use Boneless Chicken: If you’re in a rush, you can use boneless, skinless thighs to speed up cooking time.
4. Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce isn’t thickening enough, mix a little extra cornstarch with cold water and add it to the pan.
5. Make It Spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat to balance the sweetness of the honey.

---

FAQ

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
   Yes, boneless chicken thighs will cook faster and are just as delicious. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Yes, chicken breasts will work, but they might not be as juicy as thighs. Ensure they’re not overcooked to avoid dryness.
3. Can I substitute the honey in the sauce?
   Yes, you can use maple syrup, brown sugar, or light corn syrup if you’re allergic to honey or want a different flavor.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   The recipe is not naturally gluten-free due to soy sauce. You can substitute with tamari or gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   The chicken can be cooked ahead and reheated, but the skin might not be as crispy. It’s best enjoyed freshly cooked.
6. What should I serve this chicken with?
   This chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or even a simple side salad.
7. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
8. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat the chicken in a pan over low heat to avoid drying it out. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the skin won’t be as crispy.
9. Can I make this recipe with chicken wings?
   Yes, you can use chicken wings, but the cooking time will vary depending on their size. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10. Can I use a different oil?
    Yes, you can use any neutral oil, such as canola or grapeseed oil, instead of vegetable oil.

---

Conclusion

This Easy 20-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken is an absolute winner for busy weeknights or meal prep. The sweet and savory sauce adds layers of flavor, while the chicken stays juicy and crispy, making each bite delicious. Plus, with a total cook time of only 20 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal on the table without any stress. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a quick dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy a meal that’s both fast and packed with flavor!

Print