This Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dinner option! With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a sweet garlic sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you could use chicken thighs instead. You can also substitute with tofu for a vegetarian version or shrimp for a different protein.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and color. Not a fan? Try bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots. You can mix and match veggies based on what you have on hand.
Honey: Honey gives sweetness but if you’re avoiding sugar, agave syrup or maple syrup can work as substitutes. Use less if you prefer a less sweet dish. For a sugar-free alternative, try a sugar-free honey substitute.
Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is great for keeping the dish healthier. If you need gluten-free, choose tamari or coconut aminos instead. Balsamic vinegar can also add a unique flavor twist.
How Do You Make the Sauce Stick to the Chicken?
The secret to a thick and sticky sauce lies in the cornstarch. Mixing cornstarch with water and other sauce ingredients forms a slurry that thickens when heated. Here’s how to do it:
- Whisk cornstarch and water in a small bowl to avoid lumps.
- Add it to the sauce mixture and stir until smooth.
- Once you add the sauce to your stir fry, let it bubble for a few minutes; this helps it thicken perfectly and coat the chicken and veggies.
Remember to keep stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even heating! Enjoy this quick dish with the whole family, knowing it’s flavorful and easy to customize to your taste!
Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, for a total of around 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, cornstarch, and water until smooth. This will be your delicious sauce! Set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Veggies:
In the same pan, add the remaining oil and toss in the minced garlic (and ginger if you’re using it). Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it! Next, add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender yet crisp.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, bring the cooked chicken back to the pan and pour your prepared honey garlic sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and broccoli.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove the stir fry from heat and garnish with sesame seeds. Serve it immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your flavorful and easy-to-make honey garlic chicken stir fry!
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. For quicker thawing, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour or leave it in the fridge overnight.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Feel free to mix up the veggies! If you don’t have broccoli, try bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or zucchini. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce the day before and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply stir-fry the chicken and veggies, and add the sauce. It’s a great way to save time during busy weeknights!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
