If you’re craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, Garlic Honey Chicken Stir Fry with Rice is the answer. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken, crispy veggies, and a sticky, sweet, and garlicky honey sauce that clings to every bite. Served over fluffy rice, it’s the perfect comfort food that feels like takeout but is even better made fresh at home.
With just a few pantry staples and under 30 minutes, you can whip up this stir fry that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Packed with protein, vibrant vegetables, and a punch of bold flavors, this dish is delicious, easy, and nutritious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Fast and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Balanced Meal: Includes protein, vegetables, and carbs for a well-rounded dinner.
✔ Customizable: Switch up the veggies or protein to suit your preferences.
✔ Delicious Flavor Combo: Sweet honey, savory garlic, and a hint of soy sauce create the ultimate sauce.
Ingredients for Garlic Honey Chicken Stir Fry with Rice
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
For the Garlic Honey Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How to Make Garlic Honey Chicken Stir Fry with Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
1️⃣ Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the Veggies: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Honey Sauce
1️⃣ Whisk the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2️⃣ Thicken the Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the sauce and stir well. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
1️⃣ Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken and vegetables are coated in the sauce.
2️⃣ Serve Over Rice: Spoon the garlic honey chicken stir fry over bowls of cooked rice.
3️⃣ Garnish and Enjoy: Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
Tips for Perfect Stir Fry
✔ Cut Evenly: Cut chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
✔ High Heat is Key: Stir frying works best with high heat to sear the ingredients quickly.
✔ Prep Everything First: Stir fry cooking moves fast, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking.
Variations to Try
🌿 Switch the Veggies: Use snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn instead of broccoli and bell peppers.
🍗 Try a Different Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef.
🌶 Add More Heat: Increase the spice level by adding sriracha or more red pepper flakes.
🍋 Zesty Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Health Benefits of This Dish
This Garlic Honey Chicken Stir Fry is not just flavorful – it’s also packed with essential nutrients:
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein to keep you full and energized.
- Vegetables: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber for overall health.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and antioxidants.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
Serving Suggestions
- With Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, swap regular rice with cauliflower rice.
- With Noodles: Try serving the stir fry over lo mein or rice noodles for a fun twist.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a light cucumber or Asian-inspired salad for a refreshing side.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can also freeze the stir fry (without the rice) for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
2. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, just toss it in during the final step to warm it up.
3. How Do I Prevent My Stir Fry from Getting Soggy?
Cook the veggies quickly over high heat to keep them tender-crisp, and avoid overcrowding the pan.
A Sweet and Savory Stir Fry You’ll Love
Garlic Honey Chicken Stir Fry with Rice is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that delivers bold flavors, colorful veggies, and juicy chicken in every bite. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, making it a crowd-pleaser for the whole family.
Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this stir fry is sure to hit the spot. So grab your skillet, whip up this flavorful dish, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home! 🍯🍗🍚
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