15-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick, flavorful dinner made with tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze. This 15-minute honey garlic chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a sweet-and-savory meal that comes together fast with simple pantry ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 15 minutes
- Sweet, savory, and perfectly garlicky
- One-skillet recipe with easy cleanup
- Family-friendly and customizable heat
- Perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (or canola oil)
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving (Optional)
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped peanuts
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Lightly season chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until browned on one side.
- While chicken cooks, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
- Turn the chicken pieces over and pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet.
- Toss to coat the chicken evenly and continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately over rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Tips & Tricks
- Cut chicken evenly for quick, uniform cooking
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness
- Do not overcook—small pieces cook very fast
- Add a splash of water if sauce thickens too quickly
Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-Friendly, Dairy-Free
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used for juicier results
- Adjust honey for more or less sweetness
- Red pepper flakes can be omitted for kids
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 36 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fat: 14 g
FAQ
Is honey garlic chicken spicy?
It’s mildly sweet and savory; red pepper flakes add optional heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, thaw completely before cooking.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
Use tamari or coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely—extra sauce is great over rice.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Not freezer-friendly due to sauce texture.
Similar Recipes
15-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil or canola oil
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
For Serving (Optional)
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped peanuts
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Lightly season chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until browned on one side.
- While chicken cooks, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
- Turn the chicken pieces over and pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet.
- Toss to coat the chicken evenly and continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately over rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used for juicier results
Conclusion
15-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken is the ultimate quick dinner—sweet, savory, and packed with flavor. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a fast, satisfying meal without sacrificing quality.