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Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe for Dinner - Quick, Sticky, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Salt and pepper: For seasoning
  • Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons (for coating and thickening)
  • Oil: 2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola, avocado, or vegetable)
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Honey: 1/3 cup
  • Soy sauce: 1/4 cup (low-sodium preferred)
  • Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon (or apple cider vinegar)
  • Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon (optional, for flavor)
  • Red pepper flakes: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • Green onions: 2, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon (optional garnish)
  • Cooked rice or noodles: For serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-inch pieces. Season with salt and pepper, then toss with 1 tablespoon cornstarch to lightly coat.
  2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil (if using), remaining 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
  3. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and let it get hot until shimmering.
  4. Sear the chicken: Add the chicken in a single layer without crowding. Cook 3–4 minutes without moving, then flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Work in batches if needed to keep a good sear.
  5. Add the garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Push chicken to the sides and add minced garlic to the center. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring so it doesn’t burn.
  6. Sauce it up: Pour in the sauce and stir to coat the chicken. Simmer 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  7. Taste and adjust: Add a pinch of salt, more honey for sweetness, or a splash of vinegar for brightness, if needed.
  8. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over hot rice or noodles, or alongside steamed broccoli.