Description
This Sweet and Spicy Garlic Chicken recipe features tender bite-sized chicken thighs cooked in a luscious blend of soy sauce, honey, and aromatic spices. Infused with garlic and a kick of red pepper flakes, this skillet-cooked dish is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and heat, garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for a delightful finishing touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Sauté the garlic: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Add the sauce and simmer: Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly, then let it simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the chicken.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving to add freshness and texture.
Notes
- For milder heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Chicken breasts can be used as an alternative to thighs but may result in a leaner texture.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
- Serve this dish with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Keywords: sweet and spicy chicken, garlic chicken recipe, skillet chicken, quick dinner, Asian chicken dish
