Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best ingredients for this garlic honey chicken recipe, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Honey Garlic Chicken:
Chicken – I used boneless skinless chicken breasts, but you can also make this honey garlic chicken recipe using boneless skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Bone-in chicken breasts or thighs would also work, but will take longer to cook. I kept the chicken whole, but you could cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes before cooking if you like. If you want to change up the protein, check out my honey garlic pork chops or honey garlic shrimp! Sea Salt & Black Pepper Unsalted Butter – For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with additional olive oil. Garlic – I minced fresh garlic cloves, but you could use 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic for convenience. Some grated fresh ginger would also make a nice addition at the same time. Olive Oil – I usually choose extra-virgin olive oil here, but any neutral cooking oil, such as regular olive oil or avocado oil, will work. Coconut Aminos – This is a gluten-free soy sauce substitute. If you’re not sensitive to soy, you can simply use regular soy sauce or tamari. Honey – Adds sweetness and honey flavor! You can use regular honey, but I like to use zero sugar honey. Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy twist. You can also use lemon juice, white wine vinegar, or rice vinegar as substitutes if needed. Red Pepper Flakes – The amount in the recipe makes this dish moderately spicy. Use up to 1 teaspoon or eliminate altogether depending on your spice preference. You can also substitute sriracha or another chili sauce.
Optional Garnish:
Sesame Seeds – Adds a nutty, crunchy texture and earthy taste. Green Onions – Brings a fresh, light onion flavor and a pop of color.
How To Make Honey Garlic Chicken
This section shows how to make garlic honey chicken, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat: Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 10-20 minutes, or heat in a microwave on medium power, until warm. Freeze: Place the honey garlic chicken in a freezer bag with as much air removed as possible, and store in the freezer for up to 4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What To Serve With Honey Garlic Chicken Recipes
Chicken is so versatile and pairs with a variety of different sides. From veggies to starches, here are my favorite sides to pair with this honey garlic chicken breast recipe: Make sure the the internal temperature of the chicken is 165 degrees F using a meat thermometer.
Vegetables – Roasted vegetables are a great accompaniment. Try lightly sweet Japanese turnips, caramelized roasted carrots and parsnips, or simple roasted broccoli. But for a classic meal, make a veggie stir fry. Potatoes – Air fry baked potatoes or roast potatoes while you cook honey garlic chicken on the stovetop. For a lighter option, try roasted rutabaga. Rice – A simple side of white or brown rice would be delicious (shown in photos). If you need a less starchy option, try cauliflower fried rice or plain cauliflower rice. Simple Salads – Chop it up while this dish cooks! Try a smashed cucumber salad or fast Asian-inspired cabbage salad. Soup – For a classic Asian-inspired meal, serve with egg drop soup as an appetizer. Salad – You can go with a classic Asian smashed cucumber salad or make a refreshing mandarin orange salad for a sweeter option.
More Asian-Inspired Chicken Recipes
Looking for more easy chicken recipes with Asian flavors? Check out these never-boring recipes for chicken that will upgrade your weeknight dinners: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. Nutrition info uses sugar-free honey (sugar content is much higher using regular honey), and does not include optional garnishes. 📖 Want more recipes like this? Find this one and many more in my 30 Dinners In 30 Minutes!
