Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup snap peas; 1 medium onion, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons oil for cooking; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice for serving

Highlighted under: International Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up a batch of Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry on busy weeknights. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, and it comes together in just 30 minutes. The caramelized honey sauce coats juicy chicken pieces and vibrant vegetables, making it a colorful and nutritious meal that pleases my family every time. I find that the secret to the best stir fry is in the timing—cooking the chicken first until golden ensures maximum flavor and tenderness, while adding the veggies later helps them stay crisp.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:02:28.343Z

When I first experimented with Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, I wasn't sure if the flavors would harmonize. To my delight, the combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce proved deliciously addictive. I've learned that balancing the sweetness with a touch of acidity, like a splash of rice vinegar, enhances the dish even further.

Throughout the years, I've customized this recipe by introducing seasonal vegetables. The addition of bell peppers and snap peas not only adds color but also brings wonderful crunch. The key is to cook the vegetables just until they're tender-crisp for the best texture.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory and sweet flavor combination that satisfies all cravings
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy weeknights
Colorful presentation with fresh vegetables that brighten your plate

Mastering the Stir Fry Technique

To achieve that characteristic stir fry texture—crispy vegetables and tender chicken—it's crucial to use high heat. A wok or heavy skillet is ideal for this recipe because it retains heat well and allows for even cooking. Begin with the chicken: make sure each piece has ample space in the pan. If it’s crowded, they will steam instead of getting that beautifully seared outer layer. Aim for a nice golden color on the chicken, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

When sautéing the vegetables, the key is to introduce them to the pan in phases. Starting with onions and garlic builds a beautiful aromatic base, which is crucial for flavor. Add the bell peppers and snap peas next, making sure not to overcook them. You want them to be 'crisp-tender,' which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. Their vibrant colors will help keep the dish visually enticing while offering a nice contrast in texture.

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry has a unique role that contributes to the overall flavor and texture. The honey not only provides sweetness but also helps in caramelizing the chicken, creating a glossy finish. This glaze enhances the dish’s visual appeal, making it more enticing when served. If you're aiming for a low-sugar option, agave syrup or a sugar substitute can work as alternatives, though the flavor may slightly differ.

Soy sauce brings depth and umami to the stir fry, balancing the sweetness from the honey. It’s important to select a good quality soy sauce since it can significantly impact the dish’s flavor. If you prefer a gluten-free version, tamari can be an excellent substitute. Rice vinegar adds brightness and a hint of acidity, cutting through the richness of the honey and providing a well-rounded flavor profile that elevates this dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting your stir fry:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup snap peas
1 medium onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons oil for cooking
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice for serving

Make sure you have everything ready to go for a quick assembly!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stir fry:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and toss in the onions and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then add the bell peppers and snap peas, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until they're crisp-tender.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet. In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Enjoy your flavorful and colorful Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry!

Pro Tips

For the best flavors, let the chicken marinate in the honey-soy mixture for 20 minutes before cooking, if time allows.

Storage and Meal Prep

If you plan to make this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry ahead of time, cook the chicken and vegetables but leave the sauce out until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the vegetables from softening too much. Store the cooked stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so over medium heat to avoid overcooking the veggies, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if it seems dry.

For those who like to batch cook, this stir fry is great for freezing. Allow it to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe bags or containers. To enjoy it later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. Adding a little extra sauce during reheating can revive its original flavor and sheen.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines when paired with a side of jasmine rice or quinoa, which complements the sweet and savory sauce beautifully. However, you can also serve it over noodles; the sauce will cling nicely to the noodles, creating a satisfying meal. If you're looking for something lighter, serve it over a bed of greens for a fresh twist.

To make your meal even more nutritious, consider adding a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms. These can easily be swapped in or added to the base recipe without altering the cooking time significantly. You might also consider sprinkling sesame seeds on top just before serving for added texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or even beef.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to experiment with broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms to suit your taste.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this stir fry gluten-free.