Honey Garlic Chicken – Sweet, Savory, and Better-For-You

This Honey Garlic Chicken is a flavor-packed, better-for-you version of the classic takeout favorite. Made with juicy, pan-seared chicken breast and coated in a sticky homemade honey garlic sauce, it delivers that irresistible sweet-and-savory combo in every bite—without unnecessary calories or added sugar. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or when you need a satisfying, protein-rich dinner fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Minimal prep, one pan, dinner in under 30 minutes.
Sweet & Garlicky: Classic flavors made lighter.
Clean Ingredients: No bottled sauces—just pantry staples.
Versatile: Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp olive oil or cooking spray
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tbsp water (if using cornstarch slurry)
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions, sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté for 6–8 minutes until fully cooked and golden on the outside. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add soy sauce, honey, 2 tablespoons water, vinegar, and garlic. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 1–2 minutes.

3. Thicken (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker glaze, stir the cornstarch into 1 tablespoon of water to make a slurry. Add to the sauce and cook another 1–2 minutes until thickened.

4. Combine & Finish
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Simmer for another minute, then remove from heat.

5. Serve
Serve warm over rice, quinoa, or steamed veggies. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 260
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 0g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cut into equal-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Go Fresh: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—don’t substitute with powder.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
• Double the Sauce: If serving with grains or vegetables, consider doubling the sauce for extra drizzle.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish delivers bold flavor using clean, everyday ingredients. The homemade sauce skips heavy sugars and sodium while staying true to that sticky, craveable honey garlic taste. Lean chicken breast keeps the meal light yet satisfying.

Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect go-to for a delicious, better-for-you dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Quick to make, easy to clean up, and endlessly customizable, it’s a weeknight winner that feels like a treat every time you serve it.