Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken – Easy Skillet Chicken with Sweet and Savory Garlic Sauce
This Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken is one of those easy chicken dinners that tastes like something you’d order at your favorite restaurant! Tender, juicy chicken breasts are cut crosswise into smaller pieces, lightly dredged in seasoned flour, and pan-fried until beautifully golden brown. Then they’re coated in a rich, glossy, sticky honey garlic sauce that’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness.
And let me tell you, this chicken is absolutely delicious served over a big helping of hot, buttery mashed potatoes!
The sauce is what makes this recipe so special. It’s made with honey, fresh garlic, soy sauce, butter, and a few simple ingredients that simmer together until thick, glossy, and wonderfully sticky. Once the chicken is golden brown, it goes right back into the skillet, where you spoon that delicious honey garlic sauce over every piece.
The result is tender chicken with lightly crispy edges, covered in a beautiful golden sauce that’s packed with flavor.
This is such a wonderful dinner for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, or anytime you want something homemade and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
- Quick and easy: Ready in approximately 30–35 minutes.
- Tender, juicy chicken: Lightly floured chicken breasts develop a beautiful golden crust.
- Amazing homemade sauce: Sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and fresh garlic create a rich, sticky glaze.
- One-skillet dinner: Everything cooks in the same skillet for easy cleanup.
- Perfect with mashed potatoes: The delicious honey garlic sauce is wonderful spooned over hot, buttery potatoes.
- Family-friendly: A flavorful chicken dinner made with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients for Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 1/2 pounds)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 Tablespoons butter
For the Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar, optional, for extra sweetness
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 Tablespoon cold water
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
For Serving:
- Hot, buttery mashed potatoes
- Fresh chopped parsley, optional
- Extra honey garlic sauce from the skillet
How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board.
Using a sharp knife, cut each chicken breast crosswise into approximately 3–4 smaller pieces, depending on the size of the chicken.
If the breasts are especially thick, slice them horizontally first to create thinner cutlets, then cut crosswise into serving-sized pieces.
Try to keep the pieces relatively even in thickness so they cook at the same rate.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season the Flour
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Stir until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Place each piece of chicken into the seasoned flour mixture.
Turn to coat both sides, gently pressing the flour onto the chicken.
Shake off any excess flour.
Place the coated chicken pieces on a clean plate while you heat the skillet.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and 2 Tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the butter has melted and the skillet is hot, carefully add the floured chicken pieces in a single layer.
Cook for approximately 4–5 minutes on the first side, until golden brown.
Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 3–5 minutes, depending on thickness.
The chicken should develop a beautiful golden crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low.
If there is excessive oil in the skillet, carefully remove some, leaving approximately 1 Tablespoon along with the flavorful browned bits.
Add 2 Tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt.
Add the minced garlic and cook for approximately 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 6: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Pour the honey, soy sauce, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar into the skillet.
Add the brown sugar and red pepper flakes if using.
Stir well, gently scraping the bottom of the skillet to release all those delicious browned bits left behind from cooking the chicken.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
Allow the sauce to cook for approximately 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and cold water.
Stir until completely smooth.
Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering honey garlic sauce, stirring constantly.
Continue cooking for approximately 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes beautifully glossy.
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
Remember, it will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
Step 8: Return the Chicken to the Skillet
Carefully place the golden pan-fried chicken pieces back into the skillet.
Turn each piece gently to coat it in the sticky honey garlic sauce.
Using a large spoon, scoop the warm sauce from the skillet and spoon it generously over the tops of the chicken.
Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for another 1–2 minutes, just until everything is heated through.
Step 9: Serve Over Hot Buttered Mashed Potatoes
Spoon a generous helping of hot, buttery mashed potatoes onto each dinner plate.
Place several pieces of sticky honey garlic chicken over the potatoes.
Spoon plenty of the warm honey garlic sauce over the chicken, allowing a little to run down into the mashed potatoes.
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Serve immediately while everything is hot and delicious!
Jennie’s Thoughts
I absolutely love making easy skillet chicken dinners, especially when they have a really delicious homemade sauce!
And this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken is definitely one of those recipes that you’ll want to make again and again.
I started by cutting the chicken breasts crosswise into smaller pieces, dredging them in seasoned flour, and pan-frying them until they were beautifully golden brown.
I love doing this because the flour gives the chicken a lightly crispy exterior, and it helps that wonderful honey garlic sauce cling to every piece.
Then I made the sticky honey garlic sauce right in the same skillet.
The combination of honey, garlic, butter, and soy sauce is just so good! It’s sweet and savory, with a rich garlic flavor and a beautiful glossy finish.
Once the sauce thickened, I placed the chicken right back into the skillet and spooned that delicious sauce all over the top.
And instead of serving this chicken over rice, I served it over hot, buttery mashed potatoes.
Let me tell you, that was absolutely delicious!
The honey garlic sauce mixed with the creamy mashed potatoes was so good, and the chicken stayed tender and juicy.
I think this is such a wonderful recipe for a cozy family dinner, especially when you want something a little different from your usual chicken recipes.
It’s easy enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to serve for Sunday dinner.
And you’ll definitely want extra sauce for those mashed potatoes!
Tips for Making the Best Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
Cut the Chicken into Even Pieces
Cutting the chicken into smaller, evenly sized pieces helps it cook quickly and evenly.
If your chicken breasts are very thick, slice them into thinner cutlets before cutting them crosswise.
Don’t Skip the Flour
The seasoned flour gives the chicken a beautiful golden crust and helps the sticky honey garlic sauce coat each piece.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet
Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of developing that delicious golden exterior.
Use Fresh Garlic
Freshly minced garlic gives the sauce the best flavor.
You can use jarred minced garlic if needed, but fresh garlic really makes a difference.
Keep the Heat Moderate
Honey contains natural sugars that can burn if cooked over high heat.
Once you add the honey garlic sauce, keep the skillet over medium-low heat and stir frequently.
Don’t Overthicken the Sauce
You want the sauce thick and sticky, but still loose enough to spoon over the chicken and mashed potatoes.
If it becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Make Extra Sauce
If you’re serving this chicken over mashed potatoes, consider making an extra half batch of sauce.
It’s absolutely delicious spooned over the potatoes!
What Makes Honey Garlic Chicken Sticky?
The sticky texture comes primarily from the honey, which naturally thickens as it simmers.
The soy sauce adds savory flavor, while the butter gives the sauce a rich, silky finish.
A small amount of cornstarch helps the sauce become glossy and thick enough to coat the chicken.
As the sauce cooks, it develops a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly syrupy consistency.
When you return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top, it clings to the lightly crispy flour coating, creating that wonderful sticky honey garlic glaze.
What to Serve with Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
My favorite way to serve this recipe is over hot, buttery mashed potatoes, but there are so many delicious side dishes that pair beautifully with it.
- Buttery Mashed Potatoes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- White Rice
- Buttered Egg Noodles
- Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
- Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots
- Steamed Broccoli
- Roasted Green Beans
- Buttery Corn
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Homemade Dinner Rolls
- Creamy Potato Gratin
Delicious Variations
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a little sriracha to the sauce for a sweet and spicy combination.
Lemon Honey Garlic Chicken: Add 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice to brighten the sauce.
Honey Garlic Butter Chicken: Add an extra Tablespoon of butter to the sauce for a richer, buttery finish.
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites: Cut the chicken into smaller bite-sized pieces before dredging and frying.
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time according to thickness.
Honey Garlic Sesame Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished chicken for a little extra texture.
Orange Honey Garlic Chicken: Add a Tablespoon of fresh orange juice and a little orange zest for a sweet citrus twist.
Can You Make Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! This recipe can be made ahead and reheated when you’re ready to serve.
For the best texture, I recommend cooking the chicken and sauce separately if you’re preparing everything in advance.
Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to serve, warm the sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
Add the chicken and gently heat until warmed through.
The flour coating will soften after refrigeration, but the chicken will still be delicious.
How to Store Leftover Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
If you have extra sauce, store it with the chicken to help keep everything moist.
How to Reheat Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
Skillet: Place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small splash of chicken broth or water and heat gently until the chicken reaches 165°F.
Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until thoroughly heated.
Oven: Place the chicken and sauce in a covered baking dish and reheat at 325°F until the center reaches 165°F.
For the best results, I prefer reheating this chicken in a skillet because it helps keep the sauce smooth and glossy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken?
Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet and savory chicken dish made with pan-fried chicken coated in a thick, glossy sauce of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and butter.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and stay tender and juicy. Adjust the cooking time based on their thickness.
Why Do You Dredge the Chicken in Flour?
Dredging the chicken in seasoned flour creates a lightly crispy golden crust and gives the honey garlic sauce something to cling to.
Can I Make Honey Garlic Chicken Without Soy Sauce?
Yes! You can use a suitable soy-free savory sauce alternative or coconut aminos, although the flavor and saltiness will be slightly different.
How Do I Make the Sauce Thicker?
Mix a little additional cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce. Add small amounts at a time until you reach the desired thickness.
How Do I Thin the Sauce?
Add a splash of chicken broth or water and stir over low heat until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
Is Honey Garlic Chicken Sweet?
Yes, this recipe has a noticeable sweetness from the honey, balanced by the savory soy sauce, garlic, and tangy apple cider vinegar.
Can I Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! Hot, buttery mashed potatoes are one of my favorite ways to serve this recipe. The creamy potatoes are wonderful with the sticky honey garlic sauce.
More Easy Chicken Dinner Recipes to Try
If you love this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken, be sure to try some of these other delicious chicken dinner ideas!
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Hot Honey Chicken Bites
- Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
- Marry Me Chicken
- French Onion Chicken
- Oven Baked Chicken Marsala
- Garlic Butter Chicken
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken
- Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Chicken Teriyaki Bites
- Creamy Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Final Thoughts
This Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken is such an easy and delicious way to turn ordinary chicken breasts into a wonderful homemade dinner.
With tender, golden pan-fried chicken, a rich and glossy honey garlic sauce, and plenty of sweet and savory flavor, it’s a recipe the whole family will love.
And when you serve it over a big helping of hot, buttery mashed potatoes, it becomes the ultimate comfort food dinner!
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight chicken recipe or something delicious for Sunday supper, this sticky honey garlic chicken is sure to become a favorite.
Save this easy Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken recipe for later and make it for your next family dinner!
