Tender, golden chicken bites glazed in a sticky honey garlic sauce with hints of ginger and chili, served over a bed of fluffy steamed rice — this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It brings together sweet, savory, and spicy notes in one satisfying meal that’s both easy and impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines sweet, savory, and mildly spicy flavors in every bite
• Quick and simple to prepare with pantry-staple ingredients
• Crispy chicken texture without deep frying
• Versatile sauce pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Can be made with thighs or breasts
• Easily scalable for meal prep or gatherings
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Delicious leftovers for lunch the next day
• A satisfying takeout-style dish made at home

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (slurry)

To Serve:

• Steamed white rice
• Chopped green onion or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a bowl, season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches for 5–6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, combine soy sauce, honey, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili. Stir and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and toss until all pieces are coated in the sticky sauce.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice. Garnish with chopped green onion or parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets.
• Spicier Kick: Add extra chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce the amount of honey and omit the brown sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
• Swap the Protein: Try it with shrimp, turkey, or thinly sliced beef.
• Make it Crispy: Double coat the chicken in cornstarch and shallow fry for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce together for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, both cuts work well. Thighs are juicier, but breasts provide a leaner option.

What kind of rice pairs best with this dish?

Steamed white jasmine or basmati rice is ideal, but brown rice or fried rice also works well.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Absolutely. Store it in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheat before use.

Is this dish very spicy?

No, it has mild heat from the chili. You can adjust the spice level to your preference.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

What’s the best oil for frying the chicken?

Neutral oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil are best for frying.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas complement the dish well.

Will this recipe double easily?

Yes, just double all ingredients proportionally and cook in batches if necessary.

How do I keep the chicken crispy after adding the sauce?

Serve immediately after coating in the sauce. For extra crispiness, lightly toast the chicken in a hot pan before serving.

Conclusion

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken with Rice is a satisfying and flavorful meal that brings comfort and taste together in one bowl. With its quick cooking time, customizable spice level, and wholesome ingredients, it’s an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. This recipe delivers takeout-style satisfaction without leaving home.

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