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Easy Honey Garlic Chicken

This is my ultimate 'Tuesday saver.' It’s sweet, savory, and sticky, turning a basic pound of chicken into something that feels like a Five-Star bistro meal. Ready in 30 minutes in a single skillet, it's the perfect answer for those nights when you're exhausted but want a real, homemade dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American-Asian
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

THE CHICKEN
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs Cut into bite-sized pieces; thighs stay much juicier than breasts.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Gives the sauce a 'hook' to grab onto.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For that perfect golden sear.
  • Salt and Pepper Season the chicken before dredging.
THE STICKY GLAZE
  • 0.33 cup pure honey Avoid the corn-syrup blends; real honey caramelizes better.
  • 0.25 cup low-sodium soy sauce Umami flavor without the salt block feel.
  • 6 cloves garlic Mince it fresh! Jarred garlic tastes like chemicals.
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar The secret tang that balances the sweetness.
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger Grated; adds a woody, aromatic depth.
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch Mixed with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Small bowl (for slurry)

Method
 

  1. Pat your chicken pieces completely dry. Season with salt and pepper, then toss with the flour until lightly coated. This ensures they get golden and crispy instead of steaming.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear the chicken in a single layer for 4-5 minutes per side. Once deep golden and cooked through, remove to a plate.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Toss in garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir it well.
  4. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce turns clear, glossy, and thick enough to coat a spoon.
  5. Add the chicken back to the pan. Toss until every piece is glistening and amber-colored. Serve hot over rice and don't forget the 'Single Bite' shot for your photos!

Notes

Sofia's Real Tips: 1. If the sauce is too thick, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. 2. Use a microplane for the garlic—it melts into the sauce perfectly. 3. Zero-waste hack: Put your green onion ends in a jar of water and they'll grow back in a week. 4. If you like heat, double the red pepper flakes or add a spoonful of Sriracha.