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Avatar photoJohnson Maya

30 Minute Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Crispy bite-sized chicken tossed in a sticky, glossy honey garlic sauce that's sweet, savory, and ready in 30 minutes. This fusion favorite delivers takeout taste at home with minimal effort—perfect for busy nights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 347
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • FOR THE CHICKEN:
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, bite-sized
  • 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp vegetable or sesame oil
  • FOR THE SAUCE:
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) honey
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Sesame seeds & green onions, garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. honey garlic chicken recipe recipeCard1
  2. Step 1: Pat chicken dry, toss in cornstarch to coat evenly, shake off excess. This creates the crispy shell—let sit 2 minutes for better adhesion, ensuring golden results without sogginess.
  3. Step 2: Heat oil in skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Fry chicken in batches 4-5 minutes per side until 165°F internal and deeply golden. Drain on paper towels; avoid overcrowding to prevent steaming.
  4. Step 3: Lower heat, sauté garlic and ginger 30 seconds. Add honey, soy, vinegar, chili; simmer 2-3 minutes until thickened. Toss in chicken 1-2 minutes to glaze. Garnish and serve hot over rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 347 | Carbohydrates: 18 | Protein: 42 | Fat: 12 | Sugar: 16

Notes

STORAGE: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Do not freeze as the texture will change.
MAKE AHEAD: You can prep cornstarch-coated chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the fridge. Bring to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking.
SUBSTITUTIONS: For a dairy-free version, it's naturally dairy-free. Gluten-free: use tamari and cornstarch. Use chicken breast or tofu for leaner.
PRO TIPS: Use high smoke-point oil and medium-high heat for shatter crisp; fresh garlic only for aroma punch; taste sauce before tossing.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Over jasmine rice with steamed broccoli; garnish sesame for pop. Family-style platter for sharing.
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