Tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken glazed in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce—these Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are pure comfort food perfection. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even party appetizers. The garlic adds a punch, while the honey balances it with a subtle sweetness, making every bite irresistible.
This recipe is quick, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknights.
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Juicy chicken bites: Crispy exterior, tender interior every time.
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Sweet and savory flavor: Balanced honey garlic sauce that’s addictive.
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Family-friendly: Kid-approved and versatile for picky eaters.
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Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
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Great for meal prep: Reheats well without losing flavor or texture.
Ingredient Breakdown
Chicken (boneless, skinless) – Cut into small cubes for quick cooking and maximum sauce coverage.
Cornstarch – Helps create a light, crispy coating on the chicken.
Salt and Black Pepper – Enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
Olive Oil – For cooking and achieving a golden-brown crust.
Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with honey.
Honey – Adds natural sweetness and helps create the sticky glaze.
Soy Sauce – Brings umami and saltiness; tamari can be used for gluten-free.
Rice Vinegar – Adds a subtle acidity to balance sweetness.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds mild heat and complexity.
Green Onions and Sesame Seeds – Garnish that adds color, crunch, and freshness.
Pro Tips
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches to ensure even browning.
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Dry chicken thoroughly: Helps the cornstarch stick and creates a crispier texture.
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Adjust sweetness: Add more honey for a sweeter glaze or extra soy sauce for saltiness.
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Optional spice: Increase red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
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Serve immediately: The sauce thickens as it cools; best served fresh.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
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Chicken alternatives: Use turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian option.
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Sweetener swap: Maple syrup or agave can replace honey.
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Soy sauce swap: Coconut aminos for gluten-free or lower-sodium option.
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Extra veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet.
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Nutty crunch: Sprinkle toasted cashews or peanuts for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice.
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Toss with cooked noodles and a drizzle of extra sauce.
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Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
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Great as an appetizer for parties—skewer chicken bites for easy serving.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain crispiness.
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Meal prep: Cook chicken and sauce separately, then combine before serving to keep chicken from getting soggy.
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Sauce: Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Honey garlic dishes have roots in Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese-American cooking. The combination of sweet honey and aromatic garlic creates a balance of flavors that has made this style of cooking popular worldwide. These bite-sized chicken pieces are a modern, quick-cooking version that brings comfort food flair to the dinner table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, thaw completely before cutting and cooking to ensure even cooking.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you substitute tamari for soy sauce.
3. Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely! Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
4. How do I prevent chicken from sticking to the pan?
Make sure the pan is hot and use enough oil; don’t overcrowd the pan.
5. Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, then toss in the sauce.
Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat dry chicken and toss with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
- Remove chicken and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, and simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Return chicken to the pan, tossing to coat with the sauce.
- Let the sauce thicken for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot over rice, noodles, or vegetables.