Amazing Honey Garlic Chicken Stir in 30 Mins

Save this recipe on:

Honey Garlic Chicken Stir has been a lifesaver in my kitchen more times than I can count. I vividly remember those frantic Tuesday evenings after work, staring into the fridge, wondering what I could whip up that was both delicious and quick. Then, it hit me – the vibrant colors of crisp broccoli and carrots, the irresistible aroma of garlic and honey caramelizing, and the sizzle of chicken in the pan. This easy honey garlic chicken stir fry recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug after a long day. It’s my go-to for a healthy weeknight stir fry that satisfies everyone. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Chicken Stir

I know you’re going to fall in love with this recipe, and here’s why:

• It’s incredibly flavorful, boasting that perfect balance of sweet and savory.
• This is a truly quick honey garlic chicken stir fry, ready in under 30 minutes!
• It’s packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, making it a healthy choice.
• You’ll save money by making this delicious dish at home instead of ordering takeout.
• Even picky eaters will enjoy this flavorful quick honey garlic chicken stir fry.
• It’s super versatile; you can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have.
• Minimal cleanup means more time for you to relax after dinner.

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Stir

To make this delicious homemade honey garlic chicken stir fry, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its fresh components and that irresistible sauce!

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast – cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh is best for that perfect crisp-tender texture.
• 1 cup sliced carrots – adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
• 3 cloves garlic minced – the star of our honey garlic sauce, don’t skimp!
• 1/4 cup honey – provides the sticky sweetness that makes this stir fry so good.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – gives our sauce that essential umami depth.
• 1 tsp cornstarch – this is key for thickening the sauce to a glossy perfection.
• 1/4 cup water – helps to thin the sauce to the right consistency.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil – for searing the chicken and stir-frying the veggies.
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds optional – for a lovely garnish and nutty flavor.

I find having everything prepped and ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, especially for a quick stir fry!

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Stir

Making this delicious stir fry is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have the best honey garlic chicken stir fry on your table in no time. I promise it’s easier than you think!

1. Step 1: First things first, get all your ingredients ready. Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces. Slice your carrots thinly, and chop the broccoli into small florets. Mince the garlic – I love the aroma of fresh garlic, it really sets the stage for a fantastic meal.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, let’s create that irresistible honey garlic sauce. Whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, water, and cornstarch until everything is well combined and smooth. This sauce is what makes this the best honey garlic chicken stir fry you’ll ever taste! Set it aside for now.
3. Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear them for 1-2 minutes without moving, then stir and cook for another 5-6 minutes until they are fully cooked through and have a lovely golden-brown crust. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
4. Step 4: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Toss in the sliced carrots and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the broccoli florets and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender. You want them to still have a little bite!
5. Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Give your prepared honey garlic sauce another quick whisk, then pour it over everything in the pan. Stir continuously, ensuring all the chicken and vegetables are coated in that glossy, aromatic sauce. Let it bubble and thicken for 2-3 minutes; you’ll see it transform into a beautiful, sticky glaze. This is the secret to a truly amazing honey garlic chicken stir.
6. Step 6: Remove the pan from the heat. If you’re using sesame seeds, sprinkle them generously over the stir fry for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Serve your hot and fresh honey garlic chicken stir immediately over a bed of fluffy rice or your favorite noodles. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken Stir

I’ve made this dish countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks that will elevate your honey garlic chicken stir from good to absolutely amazing. These expert tips will ensure your stir fry is packed with flavor and perfectly cooked every time.

• Always make sure your pan is screaming hot before adding the chicken to get a beautiful sear and lock in juices.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you add too much chicken or too many vegetables at once, they’ll steam instead of stir-fry, leading to a less desirable texture. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. Stir-frying happens fast, so having everything chopped and measured makes the process stress-free and enjoyable.
• Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to customize your dish.

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken stir fry with honey garlic sauce?

The real secret lies in not overcooking the chicken and letting that sauce thicken properly. A perfectly glazed, sticky honey garlic sauce is what makes this dish truly special. This approach ensures a delicious, sticky honey garlic chicken recipe that everyone will love.

Can I make Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Meal Prep ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook the entire honey garlic chicken stir fry meal prep and portion it into containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.

How do I avoid common mistakes with How to make honey garlic chicken stir fry?

To avoid common pitfalls when learning how to make honey garlic chicken stir fry, don’t overcook your chicken – it dries out quickly. Also, ensure your sauce is smooth before adding it to the pan by whisking out all cornstarch lumps. Lastly, resist the urge to constantly stir; let ingredients sear.

Best Ways to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Stir

Once your delicious honey garlic chicken stir is ready, the serving possibilities are endless! I usually opt for a classic pairing, but feel free to get creative. My absolute favorite way to enjoy this meal is over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. The rice soaks up all that amazing, sticky honey garlic sauce, making every bite incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It’s a perfect base for this rich dish.

For a lighter option, consider serving your chicken and vegetable stir fry honey garlic with some brown rice or even quinoa. If you’re looking to cut down on carbs, cauliflower rice makes an excellent substitute. Sometimes, I also like to serve it alongside some simple steamed edamame or a crisp cucumber salad to add a refreshing crunch. Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds for garnish!

Nutrition Facts for Honey Garlic Chicken Stir

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of this delicious meal. Here’s a look at the estimated values per serving for this honey garlic chicken stir, based on the ingredients listed in this recipe (recipe makes 4 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 650mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. This healthy honey garlic chicken stir fry is a balanced meal option.

How to Store and Reheat Honey Garlic Chicken Stir

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores, making it perfect for your weekly meal prep! Once your delicious honey garlic chicken stir has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it into airtight containers. I always make sure to use containers that seal tightly to keep everything fresh.

You can safely store the stir fry in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully! Place the cooled stir fry in freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. This makes it an ideal option for honey garlic chicken stir fry meal prep, ensuring you have healthy, homemade meals ready to go.

To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s heated through. If reheating from frozen, I recommend thawing it in the refrigerator overnight first for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Garlic Chicken Stir

What is honey garlic chicken stir fry exactly?

Honey garlic chicken stir fry is a popular Asian-inspired dish featuring bite-sized pieces of chicken and crisp vegetables, all coated in a sweet and savory sauce made primarily from honey and garlic. It’s known for being a quick, flavorful, and healthy one-pan meal.

Can I use different vegetables in my honey garlic chicken stir fry?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. While I love broccoli and carrots, feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, green beans, or even some baby corn. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking in your homemade honey garlic chicken stir fry.

How can I make my honey garlic chicken stir fry spicier?

If you love a kick, it’s easy to turn this into a spicy honey garlic chicken stir fry! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture, or a drizzle of sriracha or chili garlic sauce at the end of cooking. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat.

What’s the best way to serve this quick honey garlic chicken stir fry?

My favorite way to serve this quick honey garlic chicken stir fry is over fluffy jasmine rice, which perfectly soaks up the delicious sauce. It’s also fantastic with brown rice, quinoa, or even noodles. For a lighter meal, try it with cauliflower rice or a simple side salad.

Variations of Honey Garlic Chicken Stir You Can Try

One of the best things about this honey garlic chicken stir is how adaptable it is! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can easily tweak it to suit your dietary needs or just to try something new. I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these variations keep dinner exciting.

• Vegetarian/Vegan Twist: Easily swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh, pressed and cubed, then pan-fried until golden. This makes for a delicious plant-based version that’s just as satisfying.
• Different Proteins: Instead of chicken, try shrimp, thinly sliced beef, or even pork tenderloin. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure your protein is cooked through but not overdone.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, transform this into a spicy honey garlic chicken stir fry by adding a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to your honey garlic sauce mixture. You can also toss in some red pepper flakes with the vegetables.
• Noodle Stir Fry: Instead of serving over rice, cook your favorite stir-fry noodles (like lo mein or rice noodles) and toss them directly into the pan with the chicken and vegetables in the final step. The noodles will soak up all that incredible sauce!

Print