Are you searching for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that everyone will love? Look no further! This Easy Honey Garlic Diced Chicken recipe is your answer. You can create a mouthwatering meal in just 15 minutes with only five main ingredients. It’s perfect for busy parents and beginners, offering amazing versatility for all your favorite diced chicken meals.
Why You’ll Love This Diced Chicken Recipe
You’ll quickly fall in love with this incredible diced chicken recipe for so many reasons! It truly makes mealtime a breeze.
- Extreme Speed: Prepare and cook this entire dish in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for the busiest evenings. You can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner without any fuss or lengthy preparations.
- Minimal Ingredients: This recipe uses common pantry staples you likely already have on hand. Simple ingredients mean less shopping and more cooking enjoyment.
- Irresistible Sweet & Savory Sauce: The honey garlic sauce perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, creating a glaze everyone craves. It coats every piece of chicken beautifully.
- Perfect Weeknight Meal: Say goodbye to takeout! This dish is a lifesaver for those hectic weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying. It’s a reliable go-to for many.
- Highly Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours. It adapts wonderfully to different tastes.
- Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds of this flavorful chicken. The sweet and savory notes are universally appealing, ensuring smiles around the table.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your fantastic Honey Garlic diced chicken recipe:
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (or canola oil). Extra virgin olive oil is also celebrated for its various health benefits.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes (about ½ inch)
- Salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons pure liquid honey
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust for desired heat)
- For serving: cooked brown or white rice, sliced green onions, sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, lime wedges to squeeze over the chicken.
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully, but you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor. Just be sure to dice them into uniform ½-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Soy Sauce: If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap the regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari. The flavor profile will remain very similar.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. Omit them entirely for a mild dish, or add a little extra if you love a spicy kick.
- Seasoning: Remember that soy sauce contains a fair amount of sodium, even the low-sodium variety. Lightly season your diced chicken with salt before cooking, then taste the final dish and add more if needed.
Equipment
You won’t need many special tools for this easy diced chicken recipe. These basic kitchen items will get the job done quickly:
- Large skillet: A non-stick skillet is preferred for easy cleanup and prevents the chicken from sticking.
- Small mixing bowl: For whisking together the delicious honey garlic sauce.
- Whisk: To ensure your sauce ingredients are perfectly combined and smooth.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions every time.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for safely and efficiently dicing your chicken breasts.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your amazing Honey Garlic diced chicken recipe. With our beginner-friendly guide, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
- Prep the Chicken: Begin by taking your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and carefully dicing them into uniform ½-inch cubes. This consistent size ensures that all the chicken pieces cook evenly and quickly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help it brown nicely.
- Make the Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later.
- Heat the Oil: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat on your stovetop. Add the extra-virgin olive oil (or canola oil) to the pan and allow it to heat up until it shimmers. A hot pan is crucial for achieving a good sear on the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly season the cubed chicken with a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh black pepper. Remember to go easy on the salt at this stage, as the soy sauce in the glaze will add plenty of sodium later.
- Cook the Chicken, First Side: Carefully add the seasoned diced chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the pan, as this can steam the chicken instead of browning it. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until it develops a beautiful golden-brown sear on one side.
- Flip the Chicken: Use tongs or a spatula to flip the chicken pieces over, allowing them to start cooking on the second side. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until most sides are lightly browned. The small size of the diced chicken means it cooks fast.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the whisked honey garlic sauce directly over the chicken in the skillet. Toss everything gently with your tongs or spatula to ensure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the delicious glaze.
- Simmer and Cook Through: Reduce the heat slightly to medium. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce, stirring occasionally, for another 4-5 minutes. Continue cooking until the chicken is completely cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For comprehensive food safety, the USDA provides detailed guidelines for cooking poultry. Small pieces of diced chicken cook quickly, so avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
- Reduce the Sauce: As the chicken cooks, the sauce will naturally thicken slightly due to the honey and the reduction process. If you desire a thicker sauce, let it simmer for an extra minute or two, stirring continuously. The goal is a glossy, syrupy glaze that clings to the chicken.
- Serve Immediately: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your flavorful Honey Garlic diced chicken immediately with your desired sides. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Pro Tips for Perfect Diced Chicken
Achieving perfect results with this diced chicken recipe is easy with these helpful tips. These simple pointers will ensure your meal is always a success.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to steaming instead of browning, which prevents that delicious crispy edge.
- Avoid Overcooking: Small chicken pieces cook very quickly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent them from becoming dry and tough. A good internal temperature is your best guide.
- Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce to spoon over your rice or vegetables, feel free to double the sauce ingredients. This ensures plenty of delicious glaze for everything.
- To Thicken the Sauce: For an even richer, thicker sauce, whisk ½ teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering sauce during the last minute of cooking.
- Check Internal Temperature: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. This guarantees the chicken is safely cooked and tender.
- Fresh Garlic is Key: Using freshly minced garlic instead of garlic powder makes a significant difference in flavor. It adds a much brighter, more aromatic depth to the sauce that can’t be replicated.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
This versatile Honey Garlic diced chicken recipe offers many options for serving, storing, and customizing.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your meal with these tasty pairings.
- Pair with Steamed Rice: Classic and comforting, serve with fluffy white rice or nutritious brown rice to soak up all that incredible sauce. This creates a complete and satisfying meal.
- Roasted or Steamed Vegetables: Complement the chicken with a side of roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or sautéed bell peppers. They add color, texture, and extra nutrients to your plate.
- Top with Fresh Green Onions: A sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions adds a burst of freshness and a mild oniony bite. They provide a beautiful garnish as well.
- Garnish with Sesame Seeds: Toasting a few sesame seeds and sprinkling them over the finished dish adds a lovely nutty flavor and an appealing visual touch. You can also add chopped peanuts for crunch.
- Squeeze of Fresh Lime Juice: A small squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens the flavors beautifully. It adds a zesty tang that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Spice it Up: For those who love extra heat, a drizzle of sriracha or a pinch more red pepper flakes at the table can kick things up a notch.
Storage & Reheating
Planning ahead is simple with this delicious diced chicken recipe.
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover Honey Garlic Diced Chicken promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for 3-4 days.
- Store with Sauce: Ensure you store the chicken along with any remaining sauce. The sauce helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful during storage, preserving its taste.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
Flavor Variations
Get creative with your next batch of this amazing diced chicken recipe.
- Spicier Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes significantly, or for an even more intense heat, try using hot honey in the sauce. A dash of cayenne pepper also works.
- Add Veggies: Stir-fry bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli florets in the pan during the last few minutes of cooking. They will absorb some of the delicious sauce.
- Citrus Burst: Include a teaspoon of fresh orange zest or a splash of orange juice in the sauce for a bright, tangy citrus note. This adds a wonderful aromatic layer.
- Ginger Infusion: For an extra layer of warm flavor, add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to the sauce mixture. Ginger pairs wonderfully with honey and garlic.
Nutrition Information
This Easy Honey Garlic Diced Chicken recipe offers a balanced and flavorful meal. Enjoy these estimated nutritional values per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Protein | 54g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 145mg |
| Sodium | 665mg |
| Sugar | 13g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5g |
Disclaimer: These values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredient brands, quantities, and preparation methods. This information is intended for general guidance only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Got questions about making this fantastic diced chicken recipe? We’ve got answers!
- What chicken parts work best for this recipe? Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal because they cook quickly and absorb the sauce wonderfully. Either option yields tender, juicy results.
- How do I get a thicker sauce? For a richer, thicker glaze, make a cornstarch slurry. Whisk ½ teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir it into the simmering sauce during the last minute of cooking.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply substitute regular low-sodium soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. The flavor profile will remain delicious and totally safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- What sides pair well with this dish? Cooked rice, quinoa, noodles, or a variety of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus are excellent choices. They all complement the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.
- Can I prep this in advance to save time? Yes, you can! Dice your chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. You can also whisk together the sauce ingredients and keep it covered until ready to cook your easy diced chicken recipe.
- What size should I dice the chicken for the fastest cooking? Aim for uniform ½-inch cubes. This small size ensures the chicken cooks through quickly and evenly, which is the key to a 15-minute meal.
Conclusion
This Easy Honey Garlic Diced Chicken recipe proves that incredibly flavorful meals don’t require hours in the kitchen. With its quick cooking time and simple, accessible ingredients, it’s truly a game-changer for busy weeknights. We encourage you to try this delicious and versatile dish soon. You’ll love having this family-favorite diced chicken meal in your rotation!