Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry

Name: Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 2 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas); 2 green onions, sliced; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Table

When I first tried making Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry, I was amazed by how quickly I could whip up a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish at home. The sweet and savory glaze is so irresistible that it transforms everyday chicken into something extraordinary. Plus, the vibrant colors of the stir-fried vegetables add not only nutrition but also visual appeal. I’ve found that using fresh ingredients really elevates this dish, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner that feels special without taking too long.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:36:35.045Z

My journey into the realm of stir-fries began when I discovered just how transformative sauces can be; the honey and soy combination is truly a game changer. I love playing with the balance of sweet and salty, and I realized that adding just a hint of garlic and ginger amplifies the dish’s complexity, making it unforgettable.

One key tip I have for this recipe is to prepare all your ingredients beforehand. Stir-frying is a quick process, and having everything ready to go means you won’t scramble last minute. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal that feels indulgent yet is oh-so-simple!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly balanced flavors with a sweet and savory touch
Quick preparation for busy weeknights
A colorful, vibrant dish that pleases the eye

Mastering the Stir-Fry Technique

Stir-frying requires high heat and quick movements to achieve that signature tender-crisp texture. Use a wok or a well-seasoned skillet over medium-high heat; the right temperature will create a slight sizzle as you add your ingredients. If you notice the chicken or vegetables starting to stick, your pan may not be hot enough. Ensure you constantly stir to prevent burning, and allow the edges of your chicken to turn golden brown for optimal flavor.

To achieve the best results, work in batches if necessary. This prevents overcrowding in the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying. If your pan isn’t large enough, cook the chicken first and set it aside before adding the vegetables, creating a perfect balance of flavors by keeping the proteins and veggies separately cooked yet cohesive in your dish.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Each ingredient in this Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry plays a crucial role in balancing flavors. The honey not only adds sweetness but also helps the sauce coat the chicken and vegetables, creating a glossy finish. If you're looking for a lower-sugar option, you can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar; both will impart a slightly different flavor but yield similar results.

For the vegetables, feel free to mix it up based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Carrots, snap peas, or even bok choy can make fantastic additions. Just remember to keep the vegetable pieces uniform in size for even cooking. Additionally, if you are aiming for a gluten-free version, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas)
2 green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds for garnish

It's essential to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results!

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Add the sliced chicken breast and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Stir-Fry the Chicken

In a hot skillet or wok, add sesame oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and stir-fry over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Mix in the mixed vegetables and continue stir-frying for 3-5 minutes until they are bright and tender-crisp.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over rice or noodles.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about this stir fry is that it can be prepped ahead of time. Marinate the chicken the night before and refrigerate; this not only saves you time but also amplifies the flavors. When you're ready to cook, simply stir-fry as instructed for a quick dinner.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water in a skillet over medium heat to prevent the chicken from drying out, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry over fluffy jasmine rice or whole-grain noodles to soak up the delicious glaze. For a healthier twist, consider serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that pairs perfectly with this dish.

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a wedge of lime can elevate this dish even further, adding an acidity that counters the sweetness. You can also experiment with crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick; it adds an exciting depth that turns an already scrumptious meal into something extra special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats besides chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

→ What vegetables work best for stir-frying?

Bell peppers, broccoli, zucchini, and snap peas are all great options. Use any favorites you like!

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.