If you’re like me, you love recipes that take simple ingredients and transform them into something truly special. This Sticky Honey Chicken is one of those dishes! The savory and sweet flavors come together perfectly, and the sticky sauce is downright addictive.

I made it for dinner last week, and it instantly became a household favorite. The best part? It’s quick, easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Credit: gimmesomeoven

Ingredients for Sticky Honey Chicken

This recipe requires just a handful of pantry staples, but each plays a vital role in creating the delicious flavors.

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Pro tip: Opt for fresh chicken over frozen for better texture. You can also use chicken thighs for juicier results.
½ teaspoon salt
Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor.
½ teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper adds subtle heat and balances the sweetness of the honey sauce.
3 tablespoons cornstarch
Coats the chicken for a light, crispy texture when pan-fried.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Ideal for frying without overpowering the flavors.

For the Sauce:

⅓ cup honey
Provides the rich, sticky sweetness at the heart of this recipe.
2 tablespoons chicken broth or water
Adds moisture and helps bring all the sauce ingredients together.
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Offers a savory, umami punch.
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
Fresh ginger elevates the dish with its warm, aromatic flavor.
2 teaspoons cornstarch
Creates a thick, glossy sauce.
1 teaspoon sriracha
For just the right amount of spice. Adjust to your heat preference.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Brings depth and enhances the savory flavors.

Garnish:

Thinly sliced green onions
Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Sesame seeds (optional)
For a nutty crunch.

Note: This recipe serves 4 people generously. Adjust ingredient quantities for larger or smaller portions.

Variations

Get creative! This recipe is versatile and works with several swaps and add-ins:

Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp, pork tenderloin, or tofu for a different twist.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and toss the sauce with roasted vegetables like cauliflower or bell peppers.
No Sriracha? Swap it with chili flakes or skip it entirely for a mild version.
Add-ins: Pineapple chunks, diced bell peppers, or onions take this dish to the next level.

For a different take on flavors, you might enjoy this sweet jalapeño pineapple boneless wings recipe.

Cooking Time

Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need for this recipe:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Keep it simple with these kitchen essentials:

Mixing bowls
Perfect for seasoning the chicken and whisking the sauce.
Large skillet or wok
Key for frying the chicken and cooking the sauce evenly.
Whisk
Ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Tongs or spatula
For flipping chicken pieces without breaking them.

How to Make Sticky Honey Chicken?

Making this Sticky Honey Chicken is delightfully straightforward. Each step ensures you get the perfect sticky, flavorful dish.

Prep the Chicken

Start by dabbing the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and helps the cornstarch stick. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes, then season with salt and pepper. Toss with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch until well-coated.

Drying the chicken and tossing it in cornstarch creates a crispy exterior when cooked. Trust me, it’s worth taking this extra step.

Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 5-6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Cooking the chicken in small batches ensures even browning and keeps the pieces crisp.

Prepare the Sauce

Whisk together the honey, chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger, cornstarch, sriracha, and garlic in a small bowl. Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved for a smooth sauce.

This step is quick, but the flavors are big and bold, so don’t rush it. A whisk is your best friend here.

Combine, Simmer, & Enjoy!

Pour the sauce into the same skillet and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet, coating each piece with the sticky sauce.

That satisfying sizzle as you pour the sauce over the chicken is a tell-tale sign you’re close to perfection. Let it simmer for another minute to infuse flavors.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

While this recipe is simple, there are a few tips to make it truly exceptional:

Use fresh garlic and ginger. It makes the sauce more aromatic and flavorful than powdered versions.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Crowding the pan can make the chicken soggy instead of crispy.
Adjust the sauce balance. Taste as you go! Add a touch more honey for sweetness or extra sriracha for heat.
Toast the sesame seeds. If using sesame seeds, a quick toast in a dry pan brings out their natural nutty flavor.
Rice pairing. Serve with jasmine or basmati rice for the best texture and flavor balance.

For more hearty and comforting dishes, check out this pesto chicken pasta recipe.

How to Serve Sticky Honey Chicken?

Presentation matters! Spoon the Sticky Honey Chicken over a bed of steamed white rice or fried rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a professional touch. For added vibrancy, serve with a side of stir-fried veggies or steamed broccoli. The vibrant greens alongside the golden honey-glazed chicken create a visual and flavor feast.

You could also serve this dish family-style, letting everyone help themselves directly from a hot skillet. It’s as casual or fancy as you want it to be.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 347
Protein: 37g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fat: 8g

This recipe strikes a nice balance of protein and carbs, perfect for a satisfying yet light meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
Freezing: While the chicken freezes well for up to 3 months, the sauce may change in consistency. Reheat gently and add a splash of water to loosen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This Sticky Honey Chicken ticks all the right boxes, and here’s why:

Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, ready in under 40 minutes.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory combination.
Customizable: Make it your own with add-ins like pineapple or spicy chili flakes.
Balanced Meals: Pair it with rice and veggies for a complete, wholesome meal.
Restaurant Favorite at Home: Brings the flavors of your favorite takeout to your own kitchen.

Get ready to impress your family or guests with this irresistible dish. Once you try it, Sticky Honey Chicken will become a regular on your dinner menu! You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell