Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

There’s something about the smell of a chicken sizzling and garlic that makes me happy instantly. The moment I prepare this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, my kitchen is overwhelmed by that rich and savory sweet aroma, which is like a warm hug. It is one of those quick dinners that I keep returning to—not only because it is fast but also because it is a flavor and comfort-packed dish from the very first bite.

About the Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a one-pan dish and very simple where chicken breast forms a tender is getting, glossy and sticky-sweet sauce made from honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a little ginger. Mixing fresh vegetables with it, and you have now the meal that is both in demand and wholesome. You can make this dish for a busy weeknight or meal prep it for the week ahead. This recipe is always a win.

Why This Recipe Is Special

I have experimented with countless stir-fry recipes, but this one keeps being the most amazing among them. The sauce is perfect in terms of sweetness and saltiness at the same time; it covers the chicken and vegetables with a shiny layer that is absolutely delicious. Besides, you won’t have to buy any posh ingredients—they are just regular ones that you probably have in your pantry. It’s warm, nice-looking, and prepared in less than 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & easy: Dinner on the table in 25 minutes—no fuss, no stress.
• One-pan magic: Less cleanup, more flavor.
• Healthy balance: Lean protein, fresh veggies, and a naturally sweet sauce.
• Customizable: You can easily swap vegetables, adjust the spice, or even make it vegetarian.
• Family favorite: Everyone—kids included—asks for seconds.

Tools You’ll Need

Don’t worry—you don’t need fancy equipment to nail this stir fry. Here’s what I use:

• Large skillet or wok: For even cooking and that perfect stir-fry texture. A wok works best because it distributes heat evenly.
• Sharp knife: To cut the chicken and veggies into bite-sized pieces.
• Cutting board: Keep one for meat and one for vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir without scratching your pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy makes the sauce perfect every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stir Fry

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 2 cups (200 g) broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup (100 g) snap peas
• 1 carrot, julienned
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

• ¼ cup (60 ml) honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (45 ml)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (3 g) + 1 tablespoon water (15 ml) for slurry

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Everything First

Before beginning the cooking process, you need to chop all your vegetables and cut the chicken into slices. Stir fry is quick, so it’s better to have everything ready to use. I usually place everything near the stove—to me, it feels like I’m a pro chef in my kitchen.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips in a single layer. Give a slight sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook for around 4-5 minutes until they’re golden and completely cooked through. Take it out of the pan and keep it aside.

(Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps the chicken sear instead of steam.)

3. Stir Fry the Veggies

If necessary, add a little bit of oil to the same pan. Put the broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and bell pepper in. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until just Tender but still crisp. You want that colorful crunch.

4. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Pour it into the pan along with the veggies and mix well.

5. Add the Chicken Back In

Put the cooked chicken back into the pan. Combine everything so the sauce covers every single piece.

6. Thicken the Sauce

Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) by stirring. The sauce will be thickened to that glossy, sticky goodness in a minute or two.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Switch off the heat and serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles. I sometimes garnish mine with sesame seeds and green onions for that final touch.

Serving Ideas

• Over jasmine or brown rice
• With lo mein or udon noodles
• On a bed of cauliflower rice
• for a low-carb option, Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fun, crunchy twist

Variations and Customization

• Spice up: stir in a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes.
• Swap proteins: shrimp, beef, or tofu could replace chicken.
• Add crunch: top with cashews or peanuts before serving.
• More veggies: include mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn.

Make Ahead & Storage

• To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• To reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• To freeze: Store in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Make-ahead tip: You can mix the sauce up to 3 days ahead—just keep it sealed in the fridge.

Pro Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

Here’s the stuff you don’t usually read in recipes—but makes all the difference:

• High heat is key: Stir fry is all about fast cooking. Don’t let the pan cool down too much between batches.
• Cut evenly: Uniform pieces cook evenly—no overcooked or raw bits.
• Don’t drown the veggies: Less is more with sauce. You want them coated, not swimming.
• Taste and tweak: Everyone’s sweet and salty preference is different—adjust the honey or soy to your liking.
• Marinate for extra flavor: If you’ve got 15 minutes, let the chicken sit in a bit of the sauce before cooking.

Recipe Summary

Yield4 servings

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Calories per serving ~320 kcal

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 16 g

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about tossing everything together in one pan and ending up with a meal that tastes like takeout—but better. Every bite of this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a mix of sweet, savory, and just the right amount of crunch.