Sticky Honey Chicken

Thank you so much for stopping by today! I am so excited to share this Sticky Honey Chicken recipe with you. It’s everything you want in a fast, flavor-packed dinner — juicy chicken coated in a glossy, sweet, slightly tangy, sticky sauce that’s pure magic.

If you’re always looking for easy, crowd-pleasing recipes that feel a little special without a ton of effort, this one’s about to become a favorite. And if easy homemade takeout-style meals make you smile as much as they do me, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss another cozy, delicious recipe!

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What Is Sticky Honey Chicken?

It’s a super simple skillet chicken recipe where tender chicken pieces are pan-fried until golden and tossed in a luscious, sticky honey sauce. The sauce clings to every bite, giving you that glossy, caramelized, sweet-and-savory goodness you usually only get at your favorite takeout spot — but made even better (and healthier!) right at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sticky, sweet, and savory — flavor heaven in every bite
• Quick and easy — ready in about 25 minutes!
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual entertaining
• Kid-approved and customizable for different spice levels

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What Does It Taste Like?

It’s sweet, sticky, and rich with just a little tang from the soy sauce and a gentle warmth from the garlic. The honey sauce caramelizes slightly as it cooks, coating the chicken in a glossy, crave-worthy finish. Every bite is juicy, tender, and perfectly balanced between sweet and savory — it’s seriously irresistible.

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Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup flour (for dredging)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sticky Honey Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for a thicker sauce)

Optional Garnishes:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

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Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Tongs or spatula
• Whisk
• Small mixing bowl (for sauce)
• Measuring cups and spoons

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Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a lighter version
• Swap honey for maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness
• Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy twist
• Toss in steamed broccoli, snow peas, or peppers for a full one-pan meal

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How to Make Sticky Honey Chicken

1. Dredge chicken pieces in flour seasoned with salt and pepper. Shake off excess.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook chicken in batches if needed, 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, ketchup, and garlic.
5. Pour sauce into the skillet, bring to a simmer, and cook for 2–3 minutes. (Optional: Add cornstarch slurry for a thicker sauce.)
6. Toss chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat completely in the sticky sauce.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving!

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What to Serve With Sticky Honey Chicken

• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce — creamy, hearty, and a perfect next cozy dinner
• Avocado Grilled Cheese Sandwich — buttery, melty, and great for a lighter lunch the next day
• Chicken Ramen Bowl Recipe — a cozy, brothy bowl that pairs beautifully with sticky sweet chicken

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Tips for Success

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying — cook in batches for the best crispy edges!
• Simmer the sauce just until thickened — it gets stickier as it cools!
• Cut chicken evenly for even cooking and best texture.
• Taste the sauce — adjust with a splash more honey or vinegar if you want it sweeter or tangier.

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Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warm.
• Meal Prep Tip: Make extra sauce to drizzle over rice or veggies during the week!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20–22 minutes, then toss in the sticky sauce.

Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely — add a squirt of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I double the sauce?
Definitely — I highly recommend it if you love extra saucy chicken!

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Let’s Get Sticky on Pinterest!

Tried this sweet and sticky chicken magic? I have to see your delicious plates!
📸 Tag me over at Pinterest @TheKitchenJoyy and save this recipe to your Easy Dinners or Weeknight Favorites boards!

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