Name: Savory Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips for Easy Dinners
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cup honey (use pure honey for best flavor); 0.25 cup soy sauce (opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if needed); 2 cloves garlic, minced (imparts aromatic flavor); 1 tablespoon sesame oil (contributes a nutty aroma); 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for desired spiciness); salt and pepper (to taste); 1 lb chicken strips (can substitute chicken breasts cut into strips); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying); green onions (optional, for garnish)

“What’s for dinner?” It’s a question that often haunts the busy cook in me, especially after a long day. Enter the delightful answer: Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips. This dish is not just another easy dinner; it’s a delightful mix of sweet honey and savory garlic, enveloping tender chicken in a sticky glaze that is simply irresistible. With quick prep and the option for gluten-free soy sauce, it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you crave homemade goodness without the fuss. These chicken strips will have everyone clamoring for seconds, turning your table into a hub of laughter and satisfied noises. Are you ready to bring a taste of comfort and effortless joy to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this recipe!

Why Are Honey Garlic Strips So Loved?

Irresistible Flavor: The perfect blend of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a glaze that delights the taste buds.

Quick Preparation: You can whip up these strips in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights!

Versatile Dish: Pair them with rice, fresh vegetables, or even toss in bell peppers for a one-skillet meal like my Chicken Enchiladas.

Family-Friendly Appeal: These chicken strips will enchant both kids and adults alike, making dinnertime a joyful occasion.

Meal Prep Friendly: Want to save time later? Prepare extra and store them—leftovers stay great in the fridge for up to 3 days!

Get ready to impress with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!

Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips Ingredients

For the Marinade

Honey – Provides sweetness for the glaze; use pure honey for the best flavor.
Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and umami; opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Imparts aromatic flavor that enhances the savory profile.
Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon) – Contributes a nutty aroma to the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes (1 teaspoon) – Offers a hint of spiciness; adjust or omit for a milder flavor.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasoning to elevate overall taste.

For the Chicken Strips

Chicken Strips (1 lb) – The heart of the dish; can substitute chicken breasts cut into strips.
Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon) – Necessary for frying, adds that desired crispness.

For Garnish

Green Onions – Optional, adds freshness and a pop of color when serving.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re all set to make delectable Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips that will delight everyone at the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup of honey, ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well blended. This marinade is the heart of your Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips, so ensure the honey is fully dissolved, creating a smooth mixture.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add 1 pound of chicken strips to the marinade, tossing them to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; for even more flavor, allow it to marinate for up to 2 hours. The chicken will absorb the sweet and savory flavors, enhancing each bite.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough for frying. Heating the oil properly is essential for achieving that irresistible crispy texture on your Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Strips
Carefully remove the chicken strips from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Place the strips in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve
Once cooked, pour any remaining marinade into the skillet, allowing it to bubble and create a sticky glaze around the chicken strips. Rotate the strips gently in the glaze for about 1 minute, giving them a beautiful, shiny coating. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Meal
Plate your Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips while they’re hot, perhaps alongside a steaming bowl of rice or some sautéed vegetables. Each bite will be a delightful blend of sweetness and savory goodness—perfect for a quick dinner that feels indulgent.

Expert Tips for Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips

Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, let the chicken soak in the marinade for a few hours or overnight to deeply infuse the taste.
Hot Oil Is Key: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken strips; this helps achieve that crispy, golden-brown exterior you desire.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to prevent steaming. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking and soggy strips.
Glaze Technique: Add remaining marinade towards the end to create a luscious glaze. Allow it to bubble around the chicken for an irresistible finish.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and juicy strips.

By following these tips, your Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips will turn out perfectly every time!

How to Store and Freeze Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken strips cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken strips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to regain their crispness. You can also use the microwave, but keep in mind they may lose some of their crunch.
Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw chicken strips in the refrigerator overnight for safe defrosting. This ensures they retain their juicy flavor when reheated.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken strips up to 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to intensify, ensuring each bite is delightful. Just combine the marinade ingredients and toss in the chicken, and refrigerate it covered until you’re ready to cook. If you wish to prep further, the cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat in a skillet until warmed through, adding a splash of water for moisture if needed. With this prep, you’ll have a fantastic, homemade meal ready in no time!

What to Serve with Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips

Enhance your delightful dinner experience with complementary dishes that elevate the flavors and textures of your meal.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains provide a delightful base, absorbing the sweet and savory glaze perfectly.
Crispy Roasted Broccoli: This adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color, creating a contrast that balances the dish beautifully.
Fresh Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness.
Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlic-infused delights make for a comforting and indulgent side, perfect for soaking up extra glaze.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A light and refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate and enhances the meal’s sweet notes.
Mini Fruit Tart: A delectable dessert to finish off the meal; the sweet fruit and creamy custard provide a delightful end to your dinner.

Let your culinary creativity shine! Each of these pairings will beautifully complement the Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips, turning your dinner into a delightful feast.

Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips Variations

Feel free to make these Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips your own with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a completely gluten-free dish without losing flavor.
Veggie-Packed: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas into the pan while cooking. They’ll soak up the glaze and add vibrancy.
Chicken Thighs: For a juicier texture, swap out chicken strips for boneless chicken thighs. The result is a richer flavor experience!
Sweet Heat: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick that brightens the sweet elements.
Coconut Aminos Swap: If you’re avoiding soy, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. It adds a unique sweet and savory flavor.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the marinade for an aromatic twist to the classic recipe.
Honey Mustard Glaze: Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the honey for a tangy twist that beautifully complements the sweetness.
Crunchy Coating: For extra texture, dip the marinated chicken strips in panko breadcrumbs before frying. This creates a deliciously crispy exterior.

With these variations, you can effortlessly transform your meal into something new every time. If you’re looking for more chicken ideas, check out my scrumptious Honey Lime Chicken or the comforting Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies. Enjoy experimenting and happy cooking!

Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right honey for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips, opt for pure honey rather than processed varieties. Look for honey that has a rich, golden color and a thick consistency; this will provide the perfect sweetness and help create that sticky glaze. Avoid honey blends that contain additives.

How should I store leftover Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips?
Very! To keep your leftovers fresher, place the Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing the container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Can I freeze Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips?
Certainly! To freeze your chicken strips, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the chicken strips in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for a crispy finish.

What should I do if my chicken strips are not crispy enough?
If you find your Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips lack the crispy texture, it may be because the oil wasn’t hot enough during cooking, or the pan was overcrowded. Ensure your oil is hot (look for it shimmering) before adding the strips and avoid placing too many in the skillet at once. Fry in small batches to achieve the perfect golden brown crispiness.

Are there dietary considerations I need to be aware of?
Yes! If there are allergies or dietary restrictions in your household, substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free. Additionally, always check labels for any specific allergens in the ingredients like soy or sesame oil that could affect sensitivities, especially if serving to guests. It’s always best to be cautious!

Can I add vegetables to the chicken strips?
Definitely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to make this meal even more nutritious. You can toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also transforms your Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Strips into a well-rounded, one-skillet meal that everyone will love!