Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious, sticky-sweet dish featuring tender chicken coated in a flavorful honey garlic sauce. Baked instead of fried, this recipe is an easy and healthier alternative to takeout, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and savory: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates an irresistible flavor.
Healthier than fried: Baked to golden perfection without deep frying.
Easy to make: Requires minimal prep and simple ingredients.
Versatile: Pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken 10 Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious, sticky-sweet dish featuring tender chicken coated in a flavorful honey garlic sauce. Baked instead of fried, this recipe is an easy and healthier alternative to takeout, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
Salt and black pepper
Cornstarch (for coating)
Olive oil or butter
Garlic (minced)
Honey
Soy sauce
Rice vinegar
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Season and coat the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and black pepper. Lightly coat each piece with cornstarch to help create a crispy texture.
Sear the chicken (optional): In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2 minutes per side until golden. This step helps lock in flavor.
Make the honey garlic sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter or heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Bake the chicken: Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish and pour the sauce over it. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for extra heat.
Crunchy coating: Dip the chicken in beaten eggs and coat with panko breadcrumbs before baking.
Slow cooker option: Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
Gluten-free version: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Extra veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the baking dish for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or extra sauce.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but adjust the baking time—bone-in chicken takes about 40–45 minutes.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 teaspoons water and stir it into the sauce before baking.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay juicier and work great in this recipe.

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?

Rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or stir-fried noodles pair perfectly.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken in the sauce and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! It’s slightly sweet and mild in flavor, making it great for kids.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but pre-minced works if you’re short on time.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overbake—check the internal temperature and remove when it reaches 165°F.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Thaw frozen chicken completely before baking for even cooking.

Conclusion

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and savory sauce, tender chicken, and simple preparation, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Try it tonight and enjoy a healthier homemade alternative to takeout!