Why You’ll Love Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
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Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
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Packed with protein and vegetables for a balanced meal
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Sweet and savory sauce with a touch of heat
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Perfect for weeknights or meal prep
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Customizable with your favorite vegetables
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Delicious served over rice or noodles
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Great for both kids and adults
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One-pan dish means less cleanup
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Naturally dairy-free if you swap out the butter
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Leftovers taste just as good the next day
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Sauce:
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
For the Stir Fry:
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon corn starch
2 tablespoons Land O Lakes Spreadable Butter with Olive Oil and Sea Salt, divided
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons
½ cup chopped bell pepper
½ white onion, chopped
3 cloves minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
¼ teaspoon sesame seeds
Directions
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In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and chili garlic sauce. Set aside.
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In a medium bowl, season the chicken with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add corn starch and toss to coat.
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Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir fry the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion until lightly charred and tender. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and sesame oil. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
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Add garlic and ginger to the chicken and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in the sauce and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
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Return the vegetables to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
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Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Swap the protein: Use shrimp, tofu, or beef strips instead of chicken.
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Adjust the heat: Add more chili garlic sauce or crushed red pepper for extra spice.
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Different veggies: Try broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or carrots.
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Make it low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
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Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
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Add crunch: Top with chopped peanuts or cashews.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
What can I serve with honey garlic chicken stir fry?
It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well too. Just be careful not to overcook it so it stays juicy.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Can I freeze honey garlic chicken stir fry?
Yes, let it cool completely and freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What kind of noodles work best?
Lo mein, rice noodles, or even spaghetti can work well with this dish.
Is it spicy?
It has a mild kick from the chili garlic sauce, but you can easily adjust the heat to your liking.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be mixed ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What’s the best pan to use?
A large non-stick skillet or a wok works best to cook everything evenly and quickly.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just make sure your pan is large enough to avoid overcrowding, or cook in batches.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just thaw and drain them well before stir frying to avoid excess moisture.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dinner solution that’s perfect for busy nights. With its sweet-savory sauce, tender chicken, and colorful veggies, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll want to make again and again. Customize it to suit your taste and enjoy a delicious homemade stir fry any day of the week.
