Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry

Name: Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound chicken breast, sliced; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice for serving

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Dishes

I absolutely love making Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry for a quick weeknight dinner that everyone in my family enjoys. The combination of savory soy sauce and sweet honey creates a beautifully balanced flavor that won't disappoint. I often add seasonal vegetables for some extra crunch and color, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy nights when you need something satisfying yet effortless to prepare.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:44:36.770Z

When I first discovered the magic of Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry, it became an instant favorite in our home. I love how the sweetness of honey complements the umami flavors of soy sauce, creating a delightful glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. To elevate the dish, I like throwing in seasonal veggies, which not only enhance the flavor but also add a wonderful pop of color.

One practical tip I've picked up is to marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite every time. I often serve it over a bed of rice to soak up all the delicious sauce!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory flavor profile that's incredibly satisfying
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile - add your favorite vegetables for a nutritious twist

Maximizing Flavor

The marinade for Honey Soy Chicken is key to developing a rich and complex flavor. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes is a great start, but for even deeper flavor, consider marinating for 30 minutes or longer in the refrigerator. This extra time allows the honey and soy sauce to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish. Remember to reserve a small amount of the marinade before adding it to the chicken, as this can be drizzled on at the end for added depth.

Capturing the perfect balance between sweet and savory relies heavily on the quality of your soy sauce. Opt for a low-sodium soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake, or try tamari for a gluten-free option. The sweetness of the honey combined with the umami-rich soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Choosing Your Vegetables

Using seasonal vegetables in your stir fry not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds color and texture to the dish. While the recipe suggests bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, you can easily substitute asparagus, snap peas, or zucchini based on availability. Ensure the vegetables are cut evenly to allow for uniform cooking. Sauté them until they are bright and tender-crisp, typically taking about 3-5 minutes. This preserves their vibrant color and crunch, making each bite satisfying.

For added flavor, consider adding some sliced green onions or sesame seeds for garnish right before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an aromatic element. If you're feeling adventurous, a splash of rice vinegar during the final stir fry can introduce a tangy note that beautifully complements the sweetness of the honey.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients you need for this delicious stir fry!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, sliced
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice for serving

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a perfect Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry!

Marinate the Chicken

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

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Stir Fry the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and stir fry for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.

Add Vegetables

Throw in the mixed vegetables and stir fry for an additional 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Serve

Serve the stir fry over cooked rice and enjoy your delicious meal!

Enjoy this quick and tasty dish any night of the week!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a splash of sesame oil to the stir fry. Both enhance the flavor beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're looking to save time during the week, you can prep your ingredients in advance. Slice your chicken and chop your vegetables a day ahead, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The marinade can also be prepared ahead of time; just mix the ingredients and keep them in a sealed container until you're ready to use them. This will cut down on your cooking time significantly, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 20 minutes when you’re ready to cook.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the stir fry in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to reintroduce moisture. Cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it is fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and reheated in a microwave or on the stove when you're ready to enjoy it again.

Scaling the Recipe

This Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry is easily scalable if you're cooking for a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of servings you need. When scaling up, use a larger skillet or wok to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, which might affect the texture and flavor. As a rule of thumb, cook in batches if necessary, making sure each piece of chicken gets direct contact with the hot pan.

If you prefer to make a larger batch in advance, consider increasing the marinade ingredients proportionally, and allowing the chicken to marinate longer. However, keep in mind that extended marination over a day may change the texture of the chicken; some might find it becomes overly tender. Monitoring the marination time is essential, especially for larger cuts or extra portions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great and save prep time. Just add them to the skillet directly without thawing.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey if you prefer a different sweetener.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and stir fry when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.