Honey Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms
Sweet, Savory & Weeknight-Perfect
This Honey Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms is a delicious homemade dinner made with tender chicken, golden mushrooms, and a rich honey garlic sauce. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Category: Main Course / Chicken Recipes
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1½ lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Mushrooms
- 8 oz (225 g) button or cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- ¼ cup (85 g) honey
- ¼ cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or green onions
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. If you prefer a lightly crisp coating, add the flour and toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate. It will finish cooking in the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden brown.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, chicken broth, and vinegar.
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken and any collected juices to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken and mushrooms evenly in the sauce.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 4–6 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Stir the cornstarch and cold water together in a small bowl. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and thick.
Add chili flakes if desired. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve immediately with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken
- Brown the chicken properly: Cook in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding.
- Use fresh garlic: It adds a richer flavor to the sauce.
- Let the mushrooms brown: This gives the dish a deeper, savory taste.
- Adjust the sweetness: Reduce the honey to 2–3 tablespoons if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
- Avoid overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) without drying out.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Final Thoughts
Honey Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms is a comforting, flavorful meal that combines juicy chicken, tender mushrooms, and a delicious sweet-and-savory sauce. It’s easy to make with everyday ingredients and pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.
Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or planning meals for the week, this recipe is a satisfying choice that everyone can enjoy.