Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is here to save the day! This colorful dish brings together tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a sweet garlic sauce. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious meal that you and your family will love!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Vegetables and Garnishes
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 medium carrot, julienned
– ½ cup snap peas
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Additional Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
For this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, I love how simple and fresh all the ingredients are. The chicken breast brings protein, while honey adds a sweet touch. Garlic gives it a nice punch. The soy sauce adds depth and umami.
I use vibrant veggies like red bell pepper and broccoli. They add color and crunch. The carrot and snap peas keep it crisp and bright. Green onions are perfect for a fresh finish, and sesame seeds bring a lovely texture.
Don’t forget the cornstarch! It helps thicken the sauce and gives the chicken that nice glaze. A splash of vegetable oil helps everything cook evenly in the pan. Adding salt and black pepper enhances all these flavors.
Gathering these ingredients makes cooking fun and easy. Each one plays a role in creating a delicious meal that is sure to impress.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
To start, take 1 pound of thinly sliced chicken breast. In a medium bowl, mix the chicken with 2 tablespoons of honey, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This mix will coat the chicken well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the chicken absorb all the yummy flavors.
Heat the Skillet
Next, grab a large skillet or wok. Pour in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers but does not smoke. This means it’s hot enough for cooking.
Cook the Chicken
Once the skillet is ready, add the marinated chicken. Spread it out in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Sauté the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes. Keep it moving in the pan until it is lightly browned and fully cooked. Check that no pink remains. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced red bell pepper, 1 cup of broccoli florets, the julienned carrot, and ½ cup of snap peas. Stir-fry these veggies for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want them to be tender yet still slightly crisp. Stir them often to cook evenly.
Combine and Finish Cooking
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Toss everything together well. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust it based on how you like it.
Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the stir fry with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and makes the dish look pretty. Serve it hot and enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques
For stir frying, use a large skillet or a wok. A wok gives you more space to cook. High heat is key for quick cooking. It helps the food brown nicely while keeping it tender.
Marinating Tips
Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. This step builds flavor and makes the chicken tender. You can also add a splash of rice vinegar or chili flakes to the mix for extra taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your stir fry with rice or noodles. They soak up the sauce and balance the meal. To plate, use shallow bowls and drizzle some sauce on top. Top with green onions and sesame seeds for a nice look. Enjoy!
Variations
Protein Options
You can switch the chicken for beef, shrimp, or tofu. Each choice gives a new twist. If you use beef, slice it thinly for quick cooking. Shrimp cooks fast, so add it last. For tofu, press it first to remove water, then cube and sauté. Adjust cooking times: beef may take a bit longer, while shrimp cooks in just a few minutes.
Vegetable Substitutions
Changing the vegetables can change the whole dish. Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas. Broccoli loves company, so add spinach or green beans for variety. Use seasonal veggies to bring fresh flavors. In summer, cherry tomatoes and corn shine. In winter, root veggies like carrots and parsnips add heartiness.
Sauce Variations
You can tweak the sauce for a new taste. For a sweeter sauce, add more honey or a splash of orange juice. For a savory kick, mix in oyster sauce or hoisin sauce. Want heat? Add red pepper flakes or sriracha. These small changes can create a new vibe for your stir fry.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. You can use glass or plastic containers. Make sure the lid fits tightly to avoid moisture loss. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry. To do this, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible. This prevents freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot.
Duration of Freshness
In the fridge, the stir fry lasts for about three days. After that, the quality may decline. Signs of spoilage include a sour smell or off-color. If the chicken feels slimy, it’s best to throw it away. Always trust your senses when checking food freshness.
FAQs
What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry?
You can serve Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with several tasty side dishes. Here are some great options:
– Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice
– Fried rice with vegetables
– Noodles, like udon or rice noodles
– A fresh green salad with a light dressing
– Egg rolls or spring rolls for a crunchy treat
These sides balance the sweet and savory flavors of the stir fry.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish beforehand. Here are some tips for meal prep:
– Marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
– Chop the vegetables a day ahead and keep them in an airtight container.
– Cook the stir fry and keep it in the fridge for up to three days.
– Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Planning ahead makes busy nights so much easier!
How to make a gluten-free version?
You can easily adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet. Consider these ingredient swaps:
– Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
– Check that your cornstarch is gluten-free.
– Pair with gluten-free noodles or rice.
These changes keep the dish delicious without gluten.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this stir fry works great for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
– Let it cool completely before storing.
– Use airtight containers for the fridge or freezer.
– It lasts up to three days in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding more vegetables boosts flavor and nutrition. Here are some options:
– Baby corn for a sweet crunch
– Zucchini, sliced thin
– Mushrooms for an earthy flavor
– Snap peas or green beans for a crisp bite
Just chop them and add them during the stir-fry step. Enjoy customizing your dish!
This blog post provided a clear guide to making Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry. We explored the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. You learned how to customize the dish with different proteins and veggies, as well as proper storage methods.
Now, get creative in your kitchen! Try out new ingredients or variations. Enjoy the tasty results and share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!
