There’s something unforgettable about summer dinners on the patio, where the air smells of fresh herbs and the grill adds that unmistakable char. This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe brings me right back to warm evenings in my grandmother’s backyard in the Midwest. She had a way of creating the perfect balance between sweet and savoury, and this dish was one of her best-kept secrets—until now.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors or pan-searing inside, this Honey Garlic Chicken is a winner. Juicy, sticky, and packed with flavour, it’s the kind of dish that gets requested on repeat.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Chicken
- Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes!
- Perfect for weeknight meals or summer gatherings.
- Uses pantry staples you probably already have.
- Naturally sweetened with honey and loaded with garlic goodness.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar. Set aside.
2. Season and Sear the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Want to ensure perfectly juicy chicken? Check out this guide on how to cook chicken thighs for expert tips.
3. Add the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken.
- Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, spooning sauce over the chicken as it thickens into a beautiful glaze.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh summer salad.
Tips for the Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken
To add depth to the flavor, make sure you’re choosing the right kind of honey. Here’s a handy guide on different types of honey that can enhance this recipe beautifully.
Also, understanding your soy sauce can really boost this dish. Learn more about soy sauce varieties and choose one that fits your taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over jasmine rice or quinoa.
- Pair with roasted green beans, asparagus, or grilled corn on the cob.
- Add a slice of grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.
Craving more bold flavours? You’ll love this Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a spicy twist on a comfort classic.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave until warmed through.
Why This Recipe Works in Summer
Summer meals should be effortless but memorable. This dish captures the essence of the season—vibrant, simple, and satisfying. Whether it’s a Tuesday dinner or part of your backyard BBQ spread, this Honey Garlic Chicken holds its own.
Boost Your Health with Garlic
Not only does garlic add amazing flavour, but it’s also packed with health benefits. If you’re curious, here’s a deep dive into garlic’s health perks.
Love This Recipe?
If you try this Honey Garlic Chicken, let me know how it turned out! Share your photos on social media and tag me—I love seeing your creations. And if you added your own twist, I’d love to hear it in the comments below.