Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Name: Sticky Honey Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1/2 cup pure honey; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; Chopped green onions for garnish; Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Published: February 19, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This sticky honey chicken recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
The combination of sweet honey and soy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone loves
With its vibrant color and glossy finish, this dish looks as good as it tastes on your table
Enjoy versatility as you can serve it over rice or alongside veggies for a complete meal

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends claimed I’d unlocked some secret culinary magic!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 pieces are perfect; they cook evenly and soak up flavors wonderfully.
Fresh Garlic: Use about 3 cloves; fresh garlic adds depth that powdered versions simply can’t match.
Honey: The star of our show! Choose pure honey for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness in your dish.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nutty aroma; just a drizzle goes a long way in enhancing flavors.
Rice Vinegar: A splash brings balance and acidity to counteract the sweetness of the honey.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness; they’re great for garnish too!
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds create an appealing crunch and visual flair when sprinkled on top.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab an oven-safe dish or baking tray coated with nonstick spray.

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic (minced), sesame oil, and rice vinegar until well combined.

Add Chicken to Marinade: Place your boneless chicken breasts into the marinade. Let them soak up those flavors while you prepare other ingredients.

Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish: Transfer marinated chicken into your prepared baking dish neatly spaced out. Ensure every piece has access to that luscious sauce.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on top.

Garnish & Serve!: Once cooked, take out your masterpiece! Sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving over rice or with steamed veggies.

Enjoy this delightful sticky honey chicken that’s sure to earn you rave reviews from both family and friends!

You Must Know

Sticky Honey Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for any dinner table
The aroma alone will entice your family or guests, creating a cozy atmosphere
You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in your sticky honey mixture, then sear it in a hot pan before finishing it in the oven for juicy perfection.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out honey for maple syrup or add chili flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also elevate the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality honey for a richer flavor; it makes a significant difference in taste
Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning
Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking to lock in juices

The first time I made Sticky Honey Chicken, my friends couldn’t believe how easy and delicious it was. They declared me a culinary wizard and insisted I host dinner parties every week!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully and add extra moisture and flavor.

What sides pair well with Sticky Honey Chicken?

Serve with rice, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I make this recipe spicy?

Add sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card