Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight

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Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken has become my go-to recipe for a quick and delicious meal. This dish features a savory and lightly sweet honey-ginger glaze that perfectly coats the chicken, creating a sticky texture that is truly craveworthy. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, and it can be made using either chicken breasts or thighs. The delightful combination of ginger and honey adds an irresistible flavor that will have your family asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken

This Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also offers a delightful balance of flavors. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Ready in 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Requires only one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Offers a unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors.
Can be customized with various vegetables and sides.
Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better!
Is gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.

With the addition of ingredients like fresh ginger and honey, this dish stands out as a flavorful option in the realm of Asian Sticky Chicken with Ginger.

Ingredients for Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken

Gather these items:

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
1-2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
⅓ cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
⅓ cup honey
2 tablespoons fresh ginger (finely grated)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
3 to 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
2 tablespoons green onions (sliced into rounds or small segments)
sesame seeds (optional and as desired)
fresh herbs (optional and as desired)
red pepper flakes (optional to taste)
lime wedges (optional for serving)

How to Make Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season evenly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Add cornstarch to a large bowl and coat each piece of chicken on both sides. Shake off the excess.
Step 3: In a large skillet, add oil, chicken, and cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through to 165F.
Step 4: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 5: In a medium bowl, whisk together all glaze ingredients.
Step 6: Reduce heat to medium or medium-low, add the glaze to the skillet, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 7: Add the chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with the glaze.
Step 8: Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the glaze to soak into the chicken.
Step 9: Garnish with green onions and optional toppings.
Step 10: Serve with lime wedges, broccoli, carrots, or rice.

Pro Tips for the Best Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Use chicken breasts if desired for a leaner option.
Adjust seasoning to your taste for a personalized flavor.
Shake off excess cornstarch to avoid a gummy texture while cooking.
For extra crunch, consider finishing the dish under the broiler for a few minutes.

Best Ways to Serve Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken

This dish can be served in multiple ways:

Over fluffy white rice for a hearty meal.
With steamed broccoli and carrots for a healthy option.
As part of a ginger and honey chicken stir-fry with bell peppers and snap peas.

How to Store and Reheat Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it retains its flavor well when reheated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken?

The secret lies in properly patting the chicken dry and coating it with cornstarch for a crispy texture. This ensures that the glaze clings beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

Can I make Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and glaze in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply cook the chicken and add the glaze for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken?

Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking the chicken, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure each piece has space to brown properly, enhancing the flavor and texture.

Variations of Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations to consider:

Use a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.
Try a baked version for a healthier option.
Add more vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.
Experiment with different types of honey for unique flavor profiles.

Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight - Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken - main visual representation

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs or Sticky Basil Chicken.

Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight - Sticky Honey Ginger Chicken - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of ginger, visit Healthline.