Honey garlic chicken bites are a delicious and quick dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for a gathering. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture and then cooked to perfection, resulting in juicy and tasty bites that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bites
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of sesame oil to the pan.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off, and add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- While the chicken is cooking, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan.
- Bring the marinade to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked, add it back to the skillet and pour the thickened sauce over the top. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly in the sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Marinade: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. However, avoid marinating for more than 2 hours as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the chicken too much.
- Cooking: Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken bites. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, resulting in less flavorful bites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs for this recipe. They are juicier and have more flavor, but may take a little longer to cook.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. Cooked chicken bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze honey garlic chicken bites? Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken bites. Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Q5: Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! This marinade works well with pork, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Keto and Low Carb Version
For a keto-friendly version, replace the honey with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia. Ensure that the soy sauce is low sodium to keep the dish within keto guidelines.
Honey garlic chicken bites are a versatile and delicious dish that can be adapted to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for your family or an appetizer for a party, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this delightful dish!
