Honey Garlic Chicken Bites
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites: A Savory Delight
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible dish for any occasion. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. Whether it’s a hectic weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these tender chicken bites coated in a luscious, garlicky sauce always hit the mark. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, allowing you to whip them up in no time. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your culinary arsenal!
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to try making Honey Garlic Chicken Bites at home. For starters, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s budget-friendly too, as the main ingredients are both accessible and affordable. Plus, kids adore these sweet yet savory bites, making it a perfect family meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer during gatherings, this dish is versatile and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
“I couldn’t believe how easy this was to make, and the flavor was phenomenal! The kids loved it!” – Sarah R.
Step-by-step overview
Creating these Honey Garlic Chicken Bites is a straightforward process that anyone can master. You will first season and cook the chicken until it’s beautifully golden brown. Then, prepare the sauce by sautéing garlic and mixing in the honey and soy sauce. Finally, combine the chicken with the sauce for a delightful finish. Here’s how to put it all together!
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken sauce)
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Substitutions to consider: If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, try using low-sodium soy sauce. You can also swap out the honey for maple syrup for a delicious twist!
Directions to follow
- Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking for about 6-7 minutes until they’re golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and then add the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to ensure all pieces are coated in the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately while hot!
Best ways to enjoy it
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are phenomenal on their own, but pairing them with side dishes can elevate the meal. Consider serving them over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. You could also serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy sharing. For a twist, try them in a wrap with fresh veggies and a drizzle of extra sauce.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Bites, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat to preserve the flavor and texture. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken bites in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Ensure you label them with the date for reference.
Helpful cooking tips
- For the best results, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken; this will ensure they sear properly and don’t steam.
- Keep your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
- Consider adding a splash of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat if you enjoy a spicy kick in your dishes.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize your Honey Garlic Chicken Bites! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during the cooking process for a colorful dish. If you’re looking for a healthier version, substitute the chicken for tofu or chickpeas. Also, you can enhance the flavor by trying different honeys, like chili-infused or orange blossom.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from prep to table, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, pork, or even tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
What’s the best way to freeze leftovers?
Store the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent sticking.
Give your taste buds a treat with these Honey Garlic Chicken Bites; they’re sure to become a treasured recipe in your home!
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until combined.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately while hot.
