This Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal. Juicy chicken pieces are mixed with colorful veggies and a sweet honey garlic sauce that makes your taste buds dance!
You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy nights. I love serving it over rice, and if you’re lucky, you might just have leftovers for lunch. Who doesn’t love a good meal deal? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I use boneless, skinless chicken breast for its lean texture. If you’re avoiding chicken, tofu or tempeh are great plant-based options, or shrimp for a seafood twist.
Broccoli: Broccoli is my go-to for color and nutrition. You can swap it with veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots based on what you have available or prefer.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. If you’re vegan or need a sugar substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar work well. Just remember that the flavor will differ slightly.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice to keep the dish balanced. You could try tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a slightly different taste.
Rice Vinegar: If you don’t have rice vinegar, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work, but use them sparingly, as they’re stronger in flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right is crucial for this stir fry. It should be juicy and tender, not dry. Here are some tips:
- Cut the chicken into even bite-sized pieces; this helps them cook at the same rate.
- Use medium-high heat to ensure a good sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of brown.
- Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center. A meat thermometer can help; look for 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for a minute after cooking before adding it back to the pan. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cook time, making it a quick 25-minute meal from start to finish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger (if you’re using it), and black pepper. This will be your sweet and savory sauce that brings all the flavors together. Set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re browned and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when the inside is no longer pink. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Then, toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to turn bright green and become slightly tender but still have a bit of crunch. This adds a nice texture to your dish.
4. Combine Everything:
Put the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the broccoli, then pour the honey garlic sauce over everything. Stir well to make sure all the chicken and veggies are coated in that delicious sauce.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and clings nicely to the chicken and broccoli. This step makes the dish extra delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the stir fry from the heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a finishing touch. Serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy your tasty Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry!
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the broccoli with other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or zucchini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary for different vegetables!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. Be sure to check that the other ingredients, like rice vinegar and cornstarch, are also gluten-free.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, stir-fry everything together and add the sauce for quick reheating!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
