Baked Honey Garlic Chicken
There’s something utterly irresistible about the combination of honey and garlic. When paired with succulent, tender chicken, it transforms into a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. This dish will quickly become a family favorite, turning any mundane dinner into a special occasion.
Top Reasons to Make Baked Honey Garlic Chicken
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready to go in under an hour.
- Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory combination of honey and garlic creates a rich, complex flavor that delights the palate.
- Healthy Option: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps this dish lean while still satisfying your cravings.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sticky-sweet glaze, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, with steamed vegetables, or in a wrap for a variety of meal options.
Shopping List
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups panko bread crumbs
- 1/3 cup water, divided
- 2 ½ tsp cornstarch
- 1 ½ tsp olive oil
- 1 ½ Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp finely peeled and minced ginger
- 1/3 cup honey
- 3 ½ Tbsp soy sauce
Prep & Cook Tools
- Mixing Bowls: For combining the chicken, eggs, and breading.
- Baking Sheet: To hold the chicken while it bakes in the oven.
- Whisk: For mixing the egg wash and sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts.
- Spatula: For flipping the chicken when necessary.
Baked Honey Garlic Chicken, Made Easy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will give the chicken that perfect golden-brown finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken breasts with 1/3 cup of water and 2 ½ teaspoons of cornstarch. Stir until the chicken is well coated. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and create a nice texture.
Step 3: Make the Egg Wash
In another bowl, beat the 2 large eggs. This will serve as the binding agent for the panko bread crumbs, helping to create a crispy coating.
Step 4: Bread the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it with panko bread crumbs. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Drizzle 1 ½ teaspoons of olive oil over the breaded chicken and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is baking, whisk together the minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, and soy sauce in a small bowl. This sauce is the star of the dish, bringing all the flavors together.
Step 7: Glaze the Chicken
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the honey garlic sauce over the top. Return the chicken to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes to caramelize the sauce slightly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Take the chicken out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with rice, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Baked Honey Garlic Chicken!
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
- Panko Bread Crumbs: You can use regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers if you’re in a pinch.
- Honey: Maple syrup can be a suitable alternative for a different flavor profile.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos work well for a gluten-free option.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil can be used for a higher smoke point.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
- Chicken is Dry: Ensure you don’t overbake the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 75°C).
- Not Enough Sauce: If you find the glaze is too thin, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to thicken it.
- Breading Falls Off: Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the egg wash before rolling in the panko bread crumbs.
- Sauce is Too Sweet: Balance the flavors by adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt to enhance the taste.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To store your Baked Honey Garlic Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, although they may take a few more minutes to cook through.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the honey garlic sauce to give it a spicy kick.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and bread it a day in advance. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.
What sides pair well with Baked Honey Garlic Chicken?
Some excellent side options include steamed broccoli, jasmine rice, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it in a wrap for a fun twist!
Desserts to Finish
Wrap-Up
Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, coupled with the crispy texture, makes it an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a dish anyone can master. So why not gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and dive into a world of flavor? Your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy this delicious adventure and share it with those you love. Happy cooking!
Baked Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will give the chicken that perfect golden-brown finish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken breasts with 1/3 cup of water and 2 ½ teaspoons of cornstarch. Stir until the chicken is well coated.
- In another bowl, beat the 2 large eggs. This will serve as the binding agent for the panko bread crumbs.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, then coat it with panko bread crumbs. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle 1 ½ teaspoons of olive oil over the breaded chicken and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is baking, whisk together the minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, and soy sauce in a small bowl.
- Once the chicken is done baking, drizzle the honey garlic sauce over the top. Return the chicken to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes to caramelize the sauce slightly.
- Take the chicken out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with rice, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish.
Notes
- For a crispy texture, ensure the chicken is well coated in egg wash before breading.
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
