This oven-baked honey garlic chicken is a delicious and easy dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. The chicken is coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe requires minimal prep and can be served with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Captivating Presentation
The visual appeal of honey garlic chicken is undeniable. A plate filled with golden-brown chicken glistening under the light, coated in a sticky sauce, creates an inviting atmosphere.
Garnished with vibrant green onions and delicate sesame seeds, this dish not only pleases the palate but also the eyes. The contrast of colors from the fluffy white rice and steamed broccoli enhances the overall presentation, making it a feast for all senses.
Flavor Profile
This dish strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory. The honey provides a natural sweetness, while the garlic and soy sauce add depth and richness.
Each bite of chicken is tender and juicy, infused with the aromatic flavors of ginger and garlic. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious blend that is both comforting and satisfying.
Cooking Techniques
Oven-baking is a simple yet effective method for preparing this dish. It allows the chicken to cook evenly, ensuring a juicy interior and a beautifully caramelized exterior.
Marinating the chicken beforehand is essential. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a deliciously succulent dish. Basting the chicken with the reserved marinade during cooking adds an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Honey garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A bed of fluffy white rice is a classic choice, soaking up the sticky sauce and complementing the dish perfectly.
Steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element, providing a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken. Other vegetables or a fresh salad can also be excellent accompaniments, making this meal versatile for any occasion.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a go-to recipe for many home cooks.
With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, honey garlic chicken can easily become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Nutrition and Serving Size
Each serving of honey garlic chicken is not only flavorful but also provides a good balance of nutrients. With approximately 320 calories per serving, it offers a satisfying meal without excessive calories.
Rich in protein and moderate in fats, this dish can fit well into various dietary preferences. Adjusting the sides can further tailor the meal to meet specific nutritional needs, making it a flexible option for everyone.
Simple Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe features chicken pieces marinated in a mixture of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger, then baked until golden and juicy. It takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Reserve the marinade for basting.
- Cook: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with rice or steamed vegetables.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g