Craving a flavorful, quick, and healthy chicken dinner for two? This Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is your answer! You can whip up this satisfying meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs.
- Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar work in a pinch.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers the best flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free options.
- Veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas are excellent choices.
- Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 cups mixed stir-fry vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli florets, sliced carrots)
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 (without rice/noodles)
- Tools: Large skillet or wok, whisk, measuring cups and spoons.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Whisk Together the Sauce
While the chicken cooks, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This creates your flavorful honey garlic sauce. Set it aside for later.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add another 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet or wok. Add your mixed stir-fry vegetables and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they are crisp-tender. You want them to still have a slight bite.
4. Combine and Thicken
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over everything. Stir in the cornstarch slurry, mixing well. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables.
5. Serve and Garnish
Remove the stir-fry from the heat. Serve immediately over your favorite cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like. You’ve just made a fantastic healthy chicken dinner for two!
Variation Ideas:
- Add cashews or peanuts for extra crunch and healthy fats.
- Include pineapple chunks for a touch of sweet and tangy flavor.
- Use different protein sources like shrimp or tofu for variety.
- Increase the amount of fresh ginger for a more pungent flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can you prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can whisk the sauce ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What other vegetables can you use?
A: Feel free to use mushrooms, snow peas, water chestnuts, or edamame. Choose vegetables you enjoy!
Q: How do you make this recipe spicier?
A: You can add more red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or a few drops of hot sauce to the finished dish.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
A: Absolutely! This healthy chicken dinner for two makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.
Q: Can you use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, you can use frozen stir-fry vegetables. Make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water before adding them to the pan.
Q: What’s the best way to cut chicken for stir-fry?
A: Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Slicing against the grain can also make it more tender.