I’ve made this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry so many times, and it’s a life-saver on busy weeknights! The tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a sauce that’s just the perfect balance of sweet and savory make this recipe irresistible. What I love most is how quickly it all comes together in one pan. It’s my go-to recipe when I want something that’s both delicious and easy to pull off. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular meal rotation.

Credit: carlsbadcravings

Ingredients

Great recipes start with great ingredients, so here’s what you’ll need for this dish. Each item is carefully selected to make the flavors pop.

For the Sauce

1/4 cup honey – Adds natural sweetness and a lovely glaze.
2 tablespoons soy sauce – Brings in that savory umami flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce for a balanced salt level.
1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce – Just a touch for mild heat and depth. Feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.

For the Stir Fry

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces – Juicier than chicken breast and hard to overcook.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the chicken.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds aromatic goodness to the chicken.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A subtle kick of spice.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps give the chicken a nice crispy coating while cooking.
2 tablespoons butter, divided – I like to use butter with olive oil and sea salt for extra flavor.
1 teaspoon sesame oil – For that unmistakable nutty aroma.
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons – A crisp, fresh addition that cooks quickly.
1/2 cup diced bell pepper – Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
1/2 white onion, chopped – Balances the dish with a hint of sharpness.
3 cloves minced garlic – A must for that signature flavor.
1 teaspoon minced ginger – Adds warmth and zing.
1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds – A little sprinkle makes the dish look extra fancy.

Note: This recipe makes 4 servings, but you can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger group.

Variations

This stir fry is perfect for customization. Here are some variations to suit your needs or preferences:

Protein Swap: Replace chicken thighs with chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist.
Vegetable Choices: Try adding broccoli, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or green beans for extra variety.
Spice Level: Like it hotter? Add more chili garlic sauce or toss in some red pepper flakes. For a mild version, reduce the chili garlic sauce.
Dietary Adjustments: Make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce or dairy-free by using a neutral oil instead of butter.

For another creamy and flavorful dish, check out this Southwest Chicken Alfredo Recipe.

Cooking Time

This recipe is quick and easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy evenings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Here’s what you’ll need in your kitchen to make this dish a breeze:

Large skillet or wok – Perfect for sautéing the veggies and chicken.
Cutting board and knife – For prepping the chicken and vegetables.
Small mixing bowl – To prepare the delicious honey garlic sauce.
Tongs or spatula – Useful for stirring and tossing the ingredients.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry?

This recipe is so simple that even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll feel like a pro. Here’s how to bring it all together.

Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together the honey, soy sauce, and chili garlic sauce in a small bowl. This mixture is the heart of the dish, delivering sweet and savory flavors. Set it aside so it’s ready to go later.

Season the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, then toss them with salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and cornstarch in a medium bowl. The cornstarch helps create a slight crust on the chicken, which absorbs the sauce beautifully.

Cook the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in your skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion, and cook until the veggies are tender yet slightly charred. This step adds smoky undertones to the dish. Transfer them to a plate and set them aside.

Cook the Chicken

Using the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sesame oil. Cook the seasoned chicken until it’s golden brown, crispy on the outside, and fully cooked through. Add the minced garlic and ginger, letting them sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. This step builds the flavor with aromatic notes.

Combine Everything

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, bringing it to a boil. Stir frequently until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency and coats the pieces fully. Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet, tossing everything together for a flavorful finish.

Credit: familyfoodonthetable

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, every little tweak can make a difference. Here are some tips to elevate your stir fry:

Prep First: Chop, measure, and mix all ingredients before turning on the stove. Stir fry moves fast!
Avoid Crowding: If you double the recipe, cook the chicken and veggies in batches to maintain that wonderful seared texture.
Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor instead of powders if you can.
Slightly Undercook Veggies: They’ll continue to soften when you combine them with the sauce, so aim for a bit of crunch.
Use a Hot Skillet: Cooking at high heat prevents sogginess and gives a nice char to the veggies.

For a similar sweet and savory chicken dish, try this Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo Recipe.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry?

This stir fry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it versatile for different occasions. Here are a few serving ideas:

Over Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice is a classic option to soak up the savory sauce.
With Noodles: Toss it with cooked rice noodles or thin spaghetti for a hearty meal.
As-Is: Load it onto a plate and enjoy it on its own as a low-carb option.
Garnish: Top it with sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or even crushed peanuts for texture and presentation.

Nutritional Information

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a quick look:

Calories: 300 per serving
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 12g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is easy to prepare ahead or store for later. Here’s how:

Restoring: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Freezing: It freezes well for up to 2 months. Freeze in meal-sized portions for convenience.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry. Here are just a few:

Quick and Easy: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
Customizable: Mix and match proteins or veggies based on your taste.
Healthy and Nutritious: Balanced with protein and fresh vegetables.
One-Pan Wonder: Uses minimal cookware, making cleanup a snap.
Irresistibly Delicious: The sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic.

Once you make this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, you’ll know why it’s one of my favorite recipes. It’s quick, customizable, and just plain delicious. Enjoy! You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell