Description
Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water (slurry)
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
Directions
Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining sesame oil. Toss in broccoli and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until slightly tender yet crisp.
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the veggies and bring to a simmer.
Thicken It Up:
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water). Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Finish & Serve:
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 260 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof stir-fry. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and within reach (mise en place). Heat your skillet or wok over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles. Add the first tablespoon of oil, swirling to coat. Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel before adding to the hot pan; this ensures a good sear. Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary. When sautéing the vegetables, start with the broccoli, as it takes slightly longer. Add the bell pepper after 2 minutes. For the sauce, whisk the cornstarch slurry thoroughly just before using to prevent settling. When adding it back to the pan, pour it around the edges so it heats and thickens immediately upon contact.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile stir-fry pairs beautifully with several bases. For a classic presentation, serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice. For a lighter option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. It’s also excellent with lo mein or udon noodles. Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. A side of quick-pickled cucumbers or a simple green salad with a ginger-sesame dressing complements the rich flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: Prep ingredients. Sear chicken in hot oil and set aside. Sauté broccoli and bell pepper in the same pan. Whisk together soy sauce, honey, and garlic for the sauce, then add to veggies. Return chicken to the pan. Add cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens. Garnish and serve immediately with your chosen side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs will yield a juicier result with more flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly as they may take a minute or two longer.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce. Ensure your other ingredients, like cornstarch, are gluten-free.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can whisk the soy sauce, honey, and garlic together and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cornstarch slurry, however, should be mixed fresh.
My sauce didn’t thicken. What went wrong? The cornstarch slurry must be added to a simmering liquid. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the starch won’t activate. Also, ensure you used the correct 1:3 cornstarch-to-water ratio.
What other vegetables can I add? Snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, baby corn, or water chestnuts are excellent additions. Add harder vegetables like carrots first, and delicate ones like snap peas last.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding the garlic directly to the hot oil at the start; it will burn. It’s incorporated into the sauce here for safety.
- Overcooking the vegetables. They should be tender-crisp (al dente) for the best texture.
- Stirring constantly after adding the cornstarch slurry. Let it simmer for 30 seconds before stirring to allow it to thicken properly.
- Using low heat. Stir-frying requires high, consistent heat to cook quickly and prevent soggy ingredients.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is more than just a quick weeknight meal; it’s a template for healthy, flavorful cooking. Mastering the simple techniques of high-heat searing, quick vegetable sautéing, and sauce thickening opens the door to countless variations. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that proves delicious food doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Keep this recipe handy for a reliable dinner solution that never disappoints.