Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry

Name: Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g chicken breast, sliced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 100g snap peas; 1 cup broccoli florets; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Cooked rice for serving

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Dishes

I absolutely love making Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of savory soy sauce and sweet honey creates a delightful glaze that clings to tender chicken and fresh vegetables. It's a dish that comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Each bite bursts with flavor, and I enjoy serving it over a bed of steamed rice for the ultimate comfort meal. I often experiment with different veggies, so it’s versatile and allows for creativity in the kitchen.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:48:35.577Z

When I first tried Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry, I knew I had stumbled onto something magical. The flavors meld beautifully, and after several attempts, I found that marinating the chicken for just 30 minutes enhances the taste without overwhelming the dish. The sweet and salty notes perfectly balance each other, creating a rich flavor profile that is hard to resist.

Additionally, I’ve learned that using a variety of freshly cut vegetables not only adds color but also texture. I often mix bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli for a delightful crunch, making each bite an exciting experience. This recipe has truly become one of my go-to meals, especially for family dinners!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory flavor combination that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the rich flavor profile in the Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry lies in the balance of the main ingredients. Soy sauce provides the umami depth that underpins this dish, while honey introduces a natural sweetness that complements the savory notes. This combination not only enhances the chicken but also the vegetables, allowing them to absorb the marinade's flavor. Ensuring that you choose a good quality soy sauce will significantly elevate the dish's taste. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your sodium intake, as it allows you to control the saltiness without compromising flavor.

The choice of vegetables is pivotal as well; bell peppers add a crunchy texture and vibrant color, while snap peas contribute a delightful snap and sweetness. Broccoli not only enhances the dish's nutritional profile but also absorbs the sauce beautifully. When using vegetables, consider their cooking times—softer vegetables should be added later to avoid overcooking. Experimenting with seasonal veggies can lead to exciting variations; for instance, swapping broccoli for bok choy or adding grated carrots can introduce new flavors and textures.

Perfecting Your Technique

Cooking the chicken properly is essential for a successful stir fry. Ensure your pan is preheated and your vegetable oil is shimmering before adding the chicken. Stir-frying over medium-high heat helps create a nice sear on the meat, which locks in moisture and enhances flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying. If you have a large amount of chicken, consider cooking it in batches, which prevents the temperature from dropping and ensures even cooking.

When adding the vegetables to your stir fry, be mindful of their cooking times. You want them to be vibrant and crisp, not mushy. Stir-frying for an additional 3-5 minutes is usually sufficient to achieve this balance. If you notice vegetables starting to wilt too quickly, you can splash a few drops of water into the pan to create steam, which helps cook them while keeping them tender-crisp. I personally like to finish my stir fry with a splash of fresh lime juice for a bright finish that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delicious stir fry:

Ingredients

500g chicken breast, sliced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 bell pepper, sliced
100g snap peas
1 cup broccoli florets
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Cooked rice for serving

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and flavorful stir fry:

Prepare the marinade

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Add the chicken slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add vegetables

Add sliced bell pepper, snap peas, and broccoli to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 3-5 minutes, until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Serve

Serve the stir fry over cooked rice and drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over the top.

Enjoy your flavorful Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions just before serving.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating on the stovetop is preferable, as it helps recreate the original stir-fry texture. Just add a small amount of water or broth to the pan while heating to prevent it from drying out. However, avoid microwaving for too long to maintain the crunch of the vegetables—heat in short bursts instead, stirring occasionally.

For those looking to extend the life of the dish, consider freezing portions in a freezer-safe container. This stir fry can maintain quality for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a pan for the best results. The flavor may intensify after freezing, making it a flavorful and convenient meal option post cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry over a bed of steamed rice truly embodies the essence of comfort food. You can enhance this meal with a side of sesame seeds and green onion for added flavor and garnish. If you want to switch things up, consider serving it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthy twist. Both alternatives absorb the sauce beautifully and add unique flavors to complement the dish.

For those looking to add some spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish without overwhelming the sweet and savory notes. Consider pairing it with a light cucumber salad, which helps cleanse the palate and balances the richness of the stir fry. These combinations will not only make your meal visually appealing but will also provide a delightful contrast in flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any vegetables you like such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.