Name: Honey Garlic Chicken: Crispy 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1/4 cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch (additional, for coating); Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying; Optional garnish: chopped green onions, sesame seeds

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Honey Garlic Chicken: Crispy 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner 🍯🧄🍗

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a honey garlic chicken recipe that combines crispy texture with a sweet and savory flavor, look no further. This crispy 20-minute dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal. The weeknight chicken dish delivers juiciness on the inside with a perfectly crispy exterior, thanks to a simple coating and quick frying method. Learn how to make this flavorful dinner that will become a family favorite and elevate your weeknight menu.

2. Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
1/4 cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch (additional, for coating)
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
Optional garnish: chopped green onions, sesame seeds

3. Prepare the Chicken for the Crispy 20-Minute Dinner

3.1. Cut and Season

Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor. For a more flavorful coating, you can marinate the chicken briefly in a mixture of soy sauce and minced garlic, but this step is optional for a quick weeknight chicken meal.

3.2. Coat the Chicken

Mix the 1/4 cup of cornstarch with a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch until evenly coated. This simple step gives the chicken a crispy exterior once fried, perfectly suited for the crispy 20-minute dinner.

4. Cooking Instructions for the Honey Garlic Chicken

4.1. Fry the Chicken

Heat a generous layer of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Fry for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

4.2. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the honey and soy sauce, cooking for about 1 minute until the sauce slightly thickens.

4.3. Combine and Finish

Return the crispy chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the honey garlic sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For extra flavor, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately with your favorite side recipes.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Crispy 20-Minute Dinner

This weeknight chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a light vegetable stir-fry. For a healthier twist, serve with a side salad or sautéed greens. If you want to explore more dinner ideas, check out our collection of quick and delicious recipes.

6. Storage Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken

Leftover honey garlic chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in a skillet until heated through. To keep the crispiness intact, reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, avoiding microwave reheating as it may make the coating soggy.

7. Variations and Customizations

Customize this crispy 20-minute dinner by adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the sauce simmering stage. For a spicy kick, add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha sauce. For more versatile chicken recipes, visit our chicken tag for more ideas.

8. FAQs About Honey Garlic Chicken

Q: How long does it take to make this honey garlic chicken?

A: It takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal crispy 20-minute dinner for busy weeknights.

Q: Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

A: Yes, you can coat the chicken ahead of time and keep it refrigerated. Fry fresh for the best crispy texture or reheat leftovers carefully to maintain crispiness.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

A: Absolutely! Store leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy as a quick weeknight chicken for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for optimal crunch or in a skillet for even heating.

9. Conclusion

In summary, this honey garlic chicken recipe offers an unbeatable combination of crispy texture and sweet-savory flavor, ready in just 20 minutes. It’s a perfect weeknight chicken dish that can be easily customized and served with your favorite sides. For more quick dinner recipes, visit our recipe collection and elevate your weeknight menu effortlessly!