This Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and yummy dish. It features tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a sweet garlic sauce that’s hard to resist!
Honestly, it’s a lifesaver on busy nights! I love serving it over rice for a filling meal. Plus, it’s a hit with the family—who can say no to honey and garlic? 🍯🐔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor. Tofu can be a fantastic substitute for a vegetarian option, and it soaks up the honey garlic sauce nicely.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best, but feel free to swap in other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly since some veggies cook faster than others.
Honey: While honey adds a nice sweetness, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup if you need a vegan alternative. Just remember that these syrups might change the flavor slightly.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, opt for tamari instead of regular soy sauce. You could also use coconut aminos for a similar flavor with less sodium!
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right is key to this dish. To keep it juicy, cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken, so it sears nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. This helps achieve a nice golden color.
- Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time!
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
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional, for brightness)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick meal in just about 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar (if using), cornstarch, and water until smooth. This will create a delicious sauce that’s sweet and savory. Set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with a little salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and completely cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Veggies:
In the same skillet, add a splash more oil if necessary. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender yet still have a nice crunch.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Give the honey garlic sauce a quick stir and pour it over the chicken and broccoli. Stir everything continuously and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken and coat all the delicious ingredients evenly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, remove from the heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a lovely finishing touch. Serve your honey garlic chicken stir fry right away, over steamed rice or your favorite noodles. Enjoy your tasty and quick meal!
This stir fry is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it a delicious dinner option for the whole family!
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! While broccoli is a great choice, you can include other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or even zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetables you choose, as some will cook faster than others.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both options provide a similar flavor without the gluten and are widely available in stores.
What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce can help revive the dish!
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and chop your chicken and veggies ahead of time. Just keep everything stored separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This will make your dinner prep super quick on the day you plan to serve it!
