Honey Garlic Chicken: A Gluten-Free Dinner Recipe
If you’re looking for a tasty, simple chicken dinner that’s both comforting and healthy, this Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is just the ticket. It’s tender, juicy, beautifully glazed, and made with pantry staples you likely have on hand. Better still? It’s naturally gluten-free and takes just 30 minutes to prepare, perfect for those crazy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend at the stove.
Whether gluten-intolerant or simply a fan of a nicely balanced chicken recipe that strikes both sweet and savory chords, this honey garlic chicken will be a staple at your dinner table.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple honey garlic chicken:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if desired)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free flour (or cornstarch)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
- For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce (tamari or coconut aminos work wonderfully)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced finely
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional but highly recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (for some heat, optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts in half horizontally so that they are thinner cutlets. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and pick up more flavors. Season both sides with pepper and salt, and then dust lightly with gluten-free flour or cornstarch. This gives the chicken a delicate crust and ensures the sauce adheres better later.
2. Sear Until Golden
Heat the olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the pieces of chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same pan (don’t clean it off, you want that flavor), reduce the heat a bit and add the minced ginger and garlic. Cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then add the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes (if using). Stir and allow the sauce to simmer.
4. Thicken the Sauce
Whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry, then gradually pour it into the sauce as it simmers, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes, until the sauce has reached a rich, glossy consistency.
5. Coat the Chicken
Put the cooked chicken back into the pan and coat it evenly with the honey garlic sauce. Allow it to simmer an additional 2–3 minutes to allow the chicken to drink in all that sweet, sticky goodness.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe goes well with:
Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
Roasted or stir-fried vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas)
Mashed potatoes for a comfort food makeover
Lettuce wraps for a low-carb version
For added freshness, top with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Tips for Success
Use thighs for added juiciness: Chicken thighs are higher in fat and retain moisture longer.
Don’t omit the garlic: It’s the center of the flavor. Use fresh garlic.
Adjust sweetness: Use extra soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice if too sweet for you.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of sriracha or extra chili flakes if you prefer it spicy.
How to Store & Reheat
Leftover honey garlic chicken may be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days. Refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat by gently warming it in a skillet on medium-low heat or microwave it in 30-second increments, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
The chicken in sauce may be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations to Try
Sticky Honey Garlic Wings: Use the same sauce with baked or air-fried chicken wings.
Vegetarian Twist: Try it with crispy tofu or cauliflower instead of chicken.
Grilled Version: Marinate the chicken in the sauce and grill it for a smoky touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Gluten-Free Honey Garlic Chicken
- One pan, minimal cleanup
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
- Family-friendly and picky eater approved
- Packed with bold, sweet-savory flavor
Final Opinion
This honey garlic chicken recipe proves that quick meals can still be incredibly satisfying. It’s a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor—just the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again. Whether served over rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside your favorite veggies, it’s a dinner win every time.
