Go Back
–+ servings
Sarah

30 Minute Honey Garlic Chicken (Skillet)

Juicy seared chicken in a glossy honey-garlic-soy glaze. Fast, sticky, and balanced — perfect for weeknights. Finish at 165°F for tender results. Oven, air fryer, and thigh methods included.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Calories: 360
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  • 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced or cubed
  • ½ tsp fine salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 Tbsp cornstarch, divided (1 Tbsp for chicken, 1 Tbsp for slurry)
  • 1–1½ Tbsp neutral oil
  • Sauce:
  • ⅓ cup honey
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 Tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
  • 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ tsp toasted sesame oil (optional)
  • sliced scallions and sesame seeds, for garnish

Equipment

  • large skillet (12-inch)
  • tongs or spatula
  • mixing bowls
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • measuring spoons and whisk

Method

  • Season chicken with salt and pepper; toss evenly with 1 tablespoon cornstarch to coat.
  • Whisk together honey, soy sauce, water, vinegar or lemon juice, garlic, and ginger. In a separate small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to make a slurry.
  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until browned and near 160°F internal temperature.
  • Pour in the sauce and simmer 30–60 seconds, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
  • Stir in the slurry and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and chicken reaches 165°F.
  • Remove from heat; stir in butter and sesame oil for gloss. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 35gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 780mgPotassium: 620mgSugar: 24gVitamin A: 70IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Thighs: Use boneless, skinless thighs and cook to 175°F for tenderness.
Less Sweet? Add 1–2 teaspoons extra vinegar or lemon juice to balance.
Pair With: Chicken Fajita Casserole, Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, or Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Tried this recipe?Mention @WPRecipeMaker or tag #wprecipemaker!