Description
A quick and flavorful 15-minute honey garlic chicken recipe featuring tender cubed chicken breasts cooked in a sweet and savory honey soy glaze with a hint of garlic and optional heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner served over rice and garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and lime.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (or canola oil)
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust for heat)
To Serve
- Brown or white rice, cooked
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped peanuts (optional)
- Lime wedges, for squeezing
Instructions
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Season Chicken: Lightly season the cubed chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, keeping in mind that soy sauce adds saltiness.
- Brown Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet. Let it brown on one side without moving for about 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms.
- Prepare Sauce: While chicken is browning, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until well combined.
- Flip Chicken & Add Sauce: Turn chicken pieces over and pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Toss the chicken to coat evenly and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep pieces tender.
- Serve: Serve the glazed honey garlic chicken over steamed brown or white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, chopped peanuts if desired, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness.
Notes
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt levels in the dish.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
- Cutting chicken into small cubes speeds up cooking and allows sauce to coat better.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice but can also be served with quinoa or noodles.
- Garnishes like green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges add fresh flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian