If you’re searching for a meal that is both irresistibly flavorful and quick to prepare, this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It brings together juicy chicken thighs, vibrant crisp vegetables, and a luscious, sticky sauce that’s equal parts sweet, garlicky, and savory. Imagine tender bites glazed in honey and garlic, with a hint of zing from ginger and a subtle kick thanks to Sambal Oelek, all tossed together in a hot pan so the flavors sing and the textures pop. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a warming, satisfying stir fry that feels like a hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is in its simplicity and thoughtful ingredient choices. Every item on your list works hard to build layers of flavor, texture, and color, making the cooking process straightforward and incredibly rewarding.
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce: For that essential salty umami base that ties the dish together without overpowering.
- ¼ cup honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances the garlic and soy flavors perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Brings a light acidity that brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Delivers a toasty, nutty aroma that enhances every bite.
- 1 tablespoon ginger root (grated): Offers fresh warmth and a slight peppery bite to elevate the sauce.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Packs the punch of savory garlicky goodness the dish is famous for.
- 1 teaspoon Sambal Oelek: Gives a gentle heat and depth; you can adjust this depending on your spice tolerance.
- 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces): Juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- â…“ cup corn starch: Coats the chicken to create a light crispiness and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without being overwhelming.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 8 ounces snap peas: Adds a satisfying crunch and fresh green color.
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced): Sweet and vibrant, visually lovely and delicious.
- 1 large carrot (peeled and thinly sliced into coins): Adds natural sweetness with a tender bite.
- 2 tablespoons refined avocado oil: Neutral and high heat oil, perfect for stir frying without burning.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): A little crunch and nuttiness to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by whisking together the low sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and Sambal Oelek in a small bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, delivering that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that make this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe so special. Set it aside and get ready to watch it work its magic later in the cooking process.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Next, toss your chicken thigh pieces in corn starch, kosher salt, and black pepper until every piece is nicely coated. This step is the secret to achieving a slightly crispy, golden exterior on the chicken that locks in the juices while also helping thicken the sauce once it’s added to the pan. Set the coated chicken aside for the skillet.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Heat one tablespoon of the avocado oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot coins. Stir frequently as you cook for 4 to 5 minutes, just until the vegetables start to brown and develop a slight blister. You want them bright and tender-crisp; this ensures a pleasing texture contrast in the finished dish. Remove the veggies from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the remaining tablespoon of avocado oil to the pan and adjust the heat as needed — it should be hot but not burning. Place the chicken pieces in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it; cook in batches if necessary. Let the chicken brown for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until fully cooked and deliciously golden. This step takes just a bit of patience but the crispy, flavorful crust is worth it!
Step 5: Combine and Coat in Sauce
Return the cooked vegetables to the pan with the browned chicken. Pour the reserved sauce over everything. Stir well to mix and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan — they add incredible depth. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken and veggies are coated in that glossy, sticky glaze. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy, and your Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds is a classic topping, adding just a bit of crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that pairs so well with the honey garlic base. For an extra touch, fresh chopped green onions or a handful of chopped cilantro bring brightness and color right before serving.
Side Dishes
This stir fry shines brilliantly served over steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the luscious sauce beautifully. For a lighter option, try it with cauliflower rice or alongside simple stir-fried noodles tossed with a dash of soy sauce and sesame oil for even more comfort food vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe inside warm lettuce cups for a fresh, hand-held option at the table. Or plate it over fluffy coconut rice to introduce a tropical undertone that elevates every bite. Either way, the colors and textures make every serving a feast for the eyes and palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten portions of this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days. When stored properly, the chicken remains tender and the vegetables maintain their crunch.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers if you want to save time for another mealtime. Place the stir fry in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture intact.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of water or a bit of soy sauce helps refresh the moisture and prevents the sticky sauce from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the delightful crispiness of the chicken and vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine, though thighs tend to be more forgiving and juicier when stir-fried. If using breast, watch closely to avoid overcooking so it stays tender.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Sambal Oelek?
If you don’t have Sambal Oelek, a dash of red pepper flakes or a small spoonful of chili garlic sauce does the trick. You can also leave it out for a milder version without losing much flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?
Definitely! Broccoli florets, baby corn, or mushrooms would all be fantastic additions if you want to mix it up or use what you have on hand.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To turn up the heat, add more Sambal Oelek or toss in sliced fresh chili peppers while cooking. A drizzle of chili oil on top right before serving also amps up the spice beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is one of those dishes that checks every box — it’s quick, bursting with flavor, and comforting without being heavy. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, it’s a colorful, delicious weeknight winner you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!
Print
Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal featuring tender chicken thighs cooked to perfection with crisp vegetables and a sticky, sweet-savory honey garlic sauce. The dish combines a savory blend of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and a hint of heat from Sambal Oelek, making it a delightful one-pan meal that can be served over rice for a complete dinner.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger root (grated)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Sambal Oelek
Chicken and Coating
- 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs (cut into 1 inch pieces)
- â…“ cup corn starch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 8 ounces snap peas
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 large carrot (peeled and thinly sliced into coins)
Cooking and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons refined avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: Whisk together low sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and Sambal Oelek in a bowl until well combined. Set the sauce aside for later use.
- Coat the chicken: Toss the chicken thigh pieces with cornstarch, kosher salt, and black pepper until fully and evenly coated. Set aside to let the coating adhere.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat a sauté pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of refined avocado oil. Add the sliced red bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot slices. Cook while stirring frequently for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to brown and blister. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan and adjust heat to maintain a hot surface without burning. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through and nicely browned.
- Combine and finish: Return the sautéed vegetables to the pan with the cooked chicken. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir well, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is evenly coated.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish if desired. Serve the honey garlic chicken stir fry hot over steamed rice or your preferred grain for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use low sodium soy sauce to keep the dish from becoming too salty.
- Adjust the amount of Sambal Oelek to control the heat level according to your preference.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the soy sauce and cornstarch are gluten-free certified.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure proper browning and cooking.
- Refined avocado oil is used for its high smoke point; you can substitute with other neutral high-heat oils like canola or grapeseed oil.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
