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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Soy Chicken combines the rich, savory flavor of soy sauce with the sweet, smooth taste of honey, creating a deliciously sticky glaze. The chicken is marinated, allowing the flavors to soak in, making every bite tender and flavorful. It’s a quick and easy dish that requires minimal ingredients and prep time but delivers a stunning result. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.

  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. For best results, marinate overnight.

  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later). Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown.

  4. Make the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, cooking for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

  5. Finish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle the thickened sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with rice or your favorite side dish.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4 servings

  • Prep Time: 10-15 minutes (plus marinating time)

  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating.

  • Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha sauce to the marinade for an extra heat boost.

  • Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the marinade for a tangy twist that balances the sweetness of the honey.

  • Grilled Version: Instead of cooking in a skillet, grill the marinated chicken over medium heat for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of water or chicken broth to keep the chicken moist. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to prevent the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, you can. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook.

2. Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

3. Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of on the stovetop?

Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. How do I make the marinade less salty?

You can use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the saltiness of the marinade.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and provide a juicier result.

6. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes, or you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it.

7. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

8. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is the best way to check.

9. Can I freeze Honey Soy Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat gently in a skillet.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Conclusion

Honey Soy Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with tender, juicy chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a weekend feast, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With the option to customize the ingredients, you can make it your own and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal.

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Honey Soy Chicken

Honey Soy Chicken

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  • Author: Alice
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 55-65 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilled
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

Honey Soy Chicken is a savory-sweet dish featuring tender chicken glazed with a flavorful honey and soy sauce marinade. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and umami-rich depth. Whether served for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is simple yet delicious, making it a perfect option for anyone looking for a flavorful, fuss-free meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  • Prepare the Marinade:

    • In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.

  • Marinate the Chicken:

    • Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour (overnight for best results).

  • Cook the Chicken:

    • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later) and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.

  • Make the Sauce:

    • While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

  • Finish and Serve:

    • Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle the thickened sauce over the chicken. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with rice or your favorite side dish.

Notes

Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh, ensuring tofu is pressed before marinating.Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for added heat.Lemon Twist: Add fresh lemon juice to balance the sweetness of the honey with tang.Grilled Version: Grill marinated chicken for a smoky flavor instead of pan-frying.

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