Honey garlic chicken is one of those rare dishes that checks every box: quick to cook, packed with flavor, and made with simple pantry ingredients. The combination of sticky honey and fragrant garlic creates a perfectly balanced sweet-and-savory glaze that works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even casual entertaining.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best honey garlic chicken at home, plus tips to keep it juicy, variations to try, and answers to common questions.
Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients:
- 500g chicken thighs or chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons raw or natural honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
- 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins: chili flakes, ginger, or sesame oil for extra depth.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season lightly with black pepper. If using chicken breast, slice it evenly for faster cooking.
Step 2: Sear Until Golden
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove excess oil if needed.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Lower the heat slightly and add minced garlic. Sauté for 20–30 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).
Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
Add honey, soy sauce, and vinegar or lemon juice. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 5: Simmer and Glaze
Let the sauce simmer for 2–4 minutes until thick, sticky, and glossy. Flip the chicken to fully coat.
Serve immediately.
Honey garlic chicken is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or creating food content, this dish delivers comfort, versatility, and irresistible taste in every bite.
If you’re using raw or authentic honey, this recipe is the perfect way to let its natural sweetness shine.