Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake – Easy Dinner Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a sticky, sweet, garlicky chicken dish that comes together in under an hour. The kind of meal that fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aromas and leaves everyone at the table going back for seconds. This Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake does just that. It’s simple, delicious, and made from pantry staples that you probably already have on hand.

I remember the first time I made this dish on a busy Tuesday evening. I had a few chicken breasts sitting in the fridge, not much time, and a serious craving for something warm and flavorful. What I threw together ended up being one of the most requested meals in our house. And it hasn’t left our weeknight dinner rotation since.

The recipe combines tender baked chicken breasts with a thick, glossy sauce made from honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to brighten things up. The sauce alone is reason enough to make this dish—it’s the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with just enough garlic to make it deeply savory.

Another thing I absolutely love about this recipe is how well it works for a range of diets and preferences. It’s naturally gluten-free if you use tamari or liquid aminos in place of traditional soy sauce, and you can easily swap in other proteins if needed. It’s also a great base recipe to customize—add a bit of heat, toss in some steamed veggies, or serve it over rice, and you’ve got a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.

But beyond all the practicality and flavor, what makes this dish really special is how it brings people together. It’s the kind of meal you can rely on when life feels a little hectic but you still want something homemade and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for family, roommates, or just yourself, this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake feels like a little act of kindness—comforting, simple, and totally satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this chicken bake, and once you try it, it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes. To start with, the ingredient list is refreshingly short and simple. You’ll find no fancy oils or obscure seasonings here—just classic, reliable pantry staples that come together in a seriously flavorful way.

Another major plus? It’s incredibly easy to make. The hardest part is probably remembering to flip the chicken halfway through baking. That’s it. You don’t need to marinate the chicken overnight or stand over a hot pan for 20 minutes. Just mix, bake, simmer the sauce, and you’re done.

This recipe also has a beautiful balance of flavors. The honey adds natural sweetness, the garlic brings depth and warmth, and the soy sauce (or liquid aminos) gives it that umami hit we all crave. Meanwhile, the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar cuts through the richness and keeps the sauce from being too heavy or cloying. Everything works together in harmony to create a sticky, glossy glaze that clings to the chicken perfectly.

It’s a kid-friendly recipe that’s also sophisticated enough to serve to guests. Plus, it’s extremely versatile. Want to use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Go for it. Prefer turkey or even tofu? That works too. You can serve this dish over rice, noodles, quinoa, or alongside a roasted veggie medley. It adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand or whatever mood you’re in.

Cleanup is also a breeze, which is always a bonus in my book. Since the chicken bakes on a sheet pan and the sauce comes together in a single pot, you won’t be stuck washing a sink full of dishes afterward. It’s the ideal combination of low effort and high reward.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping something up on the fly, this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake delivers every single time. It’s warm, flavorful, and satisfying without being fussy, and that’s why I keep coming back to it again and again.

Health Benefits

While this dish is definitely big on flavor, it also brings some surprising nutritional benefits to the table. Chicken breast, the star of the recipe, is one of the leanest and most protein-packed cuts of meat you can cook with. It’s low in fat, high in protein, and rich in essential nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, and phosphorus. These nutrients support everything from brain function to bone health and muscle repair.

The garlic in this recipe isn’t just here for its bold, aromatic flavor—it also comes with some pretty amazing health benefits. Garlic has long been known for its immune-boosting properties. It contains compounds like allicin, which may help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and support heart health. It’s a small ingredient that makes a big difference.

Honey is another key player in this dish, and while it adds that signature sweetness, it also offers natural antioxidants and antimicrobial properties. Unlike refined sugar, honey has trace amounts of vitamins and minerals and can even soothe a sore throat or support digestion in small amounts.

Using lemon juice or apple cider vinegar not only balances the flavor profile but also brings digestive benefits to the table. Both are known to aid in digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels when consumed as part of a balanced meal.

By baking instead of frying the chicken, you’re keeping the recipe on the lighter side. There’s no need for extra oil or breading, and the result is still juicy, flavorful meat with less saturated fat. You can also serve the chicken with fiber-rich whole grains or vegetables for a more balanced, filling meal that supports gut health and overall wellness.

Even the sauce, which might seem indulgent at first glance, is made with care. There’s no heavy cream, no butter, and no thickeners that weigh it down. Just a bit of cornstarch and cold water to give it that lovely, velvety texture without unnecessary calories.

When you put it all together, this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake is a meal you can feel good about. It’s a recipe that nourishes the body without sacrificing taste—and that’s always a win in my book.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. You don’t need hours in the kitchen or advanced culinary skills to get this dish on the table. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Total Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Sauce Simmer Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 35–40 minutes

Servings
This recipe yields 4 generous servings. You can easily scale it up for a larger family or cut it in half for a cozy dinner for two.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 310
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 15g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 620mg
Fiber: 0g

Of course, the exact numbers will vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use and whether you opt for variations like chicken thighs or different garnishes. That being said, this dish stays solidly in the “healthy but comforting” zone—a well-balanced meal that satisfies both cravings and nutritional goals.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this flavorful chicken bake to life. The ingredients are simple, approachable, and easy to find at any grocery store. You may even have most of them already in your pantry or fridge.

Chicken Breasts
Use 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thinner cutlets. This helps them cook faster and more evenly. You can also use pre-sliced chicken cutlets if you’re in a rush.

Honey (⅓ cup)
The base of our sticky sauce, honey adds natural sweetness and helps create that signature glazed finish. You can use raw or pasteurized honey—whatever you have on hand.

Soy Sauce or Liquid Aminos (2 tablespoons)
This brings in deep umami flavor and saltiness. If you’re avoiding gluten, opt for tamari or coconut aminos instead.

Lemon Juice or Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tablespoons)
A little acid balances out the sweetness of the honey and brightens the dish. Both options work beautifully, so use whichever you prefer.

Garlic (2 cloves grated, 1 clove minced)
We use garlic in two forms to maximize its impact—grated for the marinade and minced for the sauce. The result is deep, layered flavor.

Cornstarch + Cold Water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water)
This slurry is what thickens the sauce and gives it that irresistible sticky texture. Make sure the water is cold so the cornstarch dissolves properly.

Optional Garnishes
Thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds add a fresh, nutty finish and a pop of color. They’re not required but definitely recommended if you have them on hand.

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite takeout spot—but better and way healthier.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got everything you need, let’s walk through how to make this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake from start to finish. This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, and I’ll guide you through each step so you feel confident the whole way through. Whether this is your first time baking chicken or your hundredth, you’ll be amazed at how easy and rewarding this process can be.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat helps the chicken cook quickly while developing a nice golden edge without needing to fry it. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. You can also place a wire rack on top of the sheet to promote even air circulation if you have one, but it’s not essential.

Take your chicken breasts and slice them into thinner cutlets if they aren’t already prepared this way. Thinner cuts ensure quicker cooking and help the chicken absorb more flavor from the marinade. If your chicken breasts are very thick, you can slice them horizontally into halves to create cutlets, or gently pound them between two pieces of plastic wrap to even them out.

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better and gives the chicken a better chance to caramelize while baking.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ⅓ cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (or liquid aminos), 2 tablespoons of lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar), and 2 grated cloves of garlic. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated.

Add the sliced chicken cutlets to the bowl and toss them in the marinade to ensure they’re completely coated. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 10–15 minutes while the oven finishes heating. If you have more time, you can let it sit for up to 30 minutes to enhance the flavor even more. While the short marinating time might seem quick, it’s just enough to start breaking down the surface proteins of the chicken and allow the flavors to seep in.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, remove each piece from the bowl, letting any excess marinade drip off, and place them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Be sure not to crowd the pan—give each piece of chicken a little space so it can cook evenly and develop that golden color on the edges.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each piece using tongs or a spatula and return the pan to the oven. Bake for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Depending on your oven and the thickness of your chicken, you might need to bake for an additional 2–3 minutes, but be careful not to overcook.

While the chicken is baking, it’s the perfect time to work on the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sticky Garlic Sauce

Take the leftover marinade and pour it into a small saucepan. Since the marinade was in contact with raw chicken, you’ll need to boil it for safety—but don’t worry, it becomes a rich, flavorful glaze once cooked.

Bring the marinade to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to keep the sugars in the honey from sticking or burning. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat slightly to a simmer.

In a small bowl or cup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. This step is important—if the water isn’t cold, the cornstarch won’t dissolve properly, and you could end up with lumps in your sauce.

Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering marinade while whisking constantly. Continue to simmer the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes, or until it thickens into a glossy glaze that coats the back of a spoon. Keep the heat on low to avoid scorching the sugars.

Once thickened, turn off the heat and set the sauce aside until the chicken is finished baking.

Step 5: Combine and Glaze

When the chicken is fully baked and golden at the edges, remove it from the oven. Place the cooked chicken pieces back into a clean bowl or a shallow dish and pour the thickened garlic-honey glaze over the top. Toss gently to coat each piece thoroughly with the sticky sauce. At this point, you can serve the chicken immediately or move on to the optional final step for an even more caramelized finish.

Step 6 (Optional): Broil for Extra Caramelization

If you want your chicken to have a slightly charred, restaurant-style glaze, transfer the glazed chicken pieces back onto the baking sheet and place them under the broiler for 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them during this step, as the sugars in the sauce can burn quickly. Once they’re lightly caramelized and sticky, pull them out and get ready to serve.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like. These little finishing touches not only add a burst of flavor and freshness but also make the dish look beautifully finished.

Now your Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken is ready to serve, and believe me, it tastes even better than it looks.

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken

How to Serve

This chicken is incredibly versatile, which makes serving it both fun and flexible. Depending on your mood or dietary needs, there are endless ways to enjoy this dish.

One classic option is to serve it over a fluffy bed of white jasmine or basmati rice. The rice soaks up the sweet and sticky sauce perfectly, creating a comforting and hearty bowl. If you want something a little healthier or higher in fiber, brown rice or quinoa are excellent alternatives.

For a lighter take, try pairing the chicken with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. The savory-sweet sauce tastes amazing when drizzled over the vegetables as well, turning even simple sides into something special.

You can also use this chicken in wraps or grain bowls. Slice it up and layer it over warm farro or couscous, add some crunchy cucumbers, shredded carrots, and maybe a little spicy mayo or hummus for a nourishing and balanced meal.

If you’re feeding kids or picky eaters, serve it alongside simple buttered noodles or mashed potatoes. The sauce pairs beautifully with soft, mild sides and keeps the meal family-friendly.

For something a little different, use the chicken to make a rice or noodle bowl with chopped lettuce, shredded cabbage, and a light vinaigrette. The result is a meal that’s both fresh and satisfying, with a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

No matter how you serve it, this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake always delivers. It’s the kind of dish that easily becomes a household staple because it’s so easy to customize and hard not to love.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake with the right sides, drinks, and accompaniments can take your meal from delicious to unforgettable. Because the chicken has a rich, sweet, and savory flavor profile, you’ll want to choose pairings that either balance the dish with freshness and brightness or complement its warmth and depth.

Let’s start with side dishes. A simple bowl of steamed white rice is a classic choice. Its mild flavor allows the sticky glaze to shine, and the rice soaks up every drop of that delicious sauce. Brown rice or jasmine rice also work beautifully. For a slightly nutty taste and chewy texture, try serving the chicken over quinoa or bulgur wheat.

If you’re looking to add more vegetables to the meal, roasted or steamed green vegetables are a fantastic match. Think broccoli, green beans, snow peas, or bok choy. These veggies provide freshness and crunch, helping to cut through the richness of the glaze. For a fun twist, toss the veggies in a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for extra flavor that ties in with the chicken.

Stir-fried vegetables with garlic and ginger are another excellent choice. A colorful medley of bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and snap peas not only adds visual appeal but also adds layers of texture and flavor to the plate. If you’re short on time, even a quick sauté of spinach with a touch of sesame oil can do the trick.

Looking to go low-carb? Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These lighter bases keep the dish gluten-free and are perfect for those looking to keep their carbohydrate intake lower without sacrificing satisfaction.

When it comes to beverages, pair this meal with something light and refreshing. Sparkling water with a splash of lemon or cucumber-infused water can help cleanse the palate between bites. For a caffeine-free option, try a light iced green tea, which pairs well with the savory-sweet notes in the chicken.

If you’re serving this meal at a gathering or dinner party, you could even create a DIY chicken bowl bar with all the components—rice, veggies, toppings like chopped scallions or crushed peanuts—so guests can build their own plates. It’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy a meal and makes entertaining feel effortless.

Ultimately, the pairings you choose should reflect the occasion and your preferences, but rest assured—this chicken will play well with just about anything you serve alongside it.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the many things I love about this recipe is how well it stores and reheats. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers for lunch, this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken keeps beautifully and tastes just as amazing the next day.

Storage

Once the chicken has cooled to room temperature, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. Be sure to include some of the extra sauce in the container so the chicken stays juicy and flavorful when reheated. You can store the chicken and sides (like rice or veggies) together or separately depending on how you plan to reheat them.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze the chicken for a longer period, it freezes very well. To do this, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely. Then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, along with a bit of sauce. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.

Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. This slow thawing helps preserve its texture and moisture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely to prevent drying out. Microwave on medium heat for 1–2 minutes, checking halfway through. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth before heating.

Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop. Place the chicken in a small skillet with a bit of extra sauce or water. Heat on low until warmed through, stirring occasionally. This method keeps the chicken tender and prevents it from drying out.

You can also reheat in the oven. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C), place the chicken in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for 10–15 minutes or until hot.

No matter how you store or reheat it, this chicken maintains its delicious flavor and texture, making it perfect for make-ahead meals, lunches, or weeknight dinners that just need a little warming up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like this one, a few common pitfalls can affect the final result. Let’s go over the most frequent mistakes and how you can avoid them to ensure perfect sticky honey garlic chicken every time.

Mistake 1: Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken breasts are naturally lean, which means they can become dry and tough if overcooked. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be completely white with no pink in the center, but still juicy.

Mistake 2: Skipping the Marinade Time

While this recipe doesn’t require hours of marinating, giving the chicken at least 10–15 minutes to soak up the flavors makes a noticeable difference. Skipping this step can result in chicken that tastes bland or lacks depth.

Mistake 3: Using Hot Water for the Cornstarch Slurry

The cornstarch must be dissolved in cold water. Using warm or hot water will cause the cornstarch to clump, which can lead to a lumpy or uneven sauce. Always stir the slurry well before adding it to the hot marinade.

Mistake 4: Burning the Sauce

Because the sauce contains honey, it can burn quickly if overheated. Keep your stove on medium or medium-low heat when thickening the sauce and stir continuously. Once the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, remove it from the heat.

Mistake 5: Not Flipping the Chicken

To ensure both sides of the chicken are evenly cooked and nicely golden, don’t forget to flip it halfway through baking. This step helps achieve a more appealing texture and color on each piece.

Mistake 6: Crowding the Pan

Give the chicken pieces a little space on the baking sheet. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of bake, which can affect both the texture and browning. Use two pans if necessary to give the chicken plenty of room.

By keeping these common missteps in mind, you’ll be well on your way to consistently delicious results every time you make this recipe.

Pro Tips

To elevate your Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake from good to truly unforgettable, a few simple expert tips can make all the difference. These tips are based on countless rounds of testing, kitchen experience, and real-life weeknight cooking.

Tip 1: Pound the Chicken for Even Cooking

If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider gently pounding them with a meat mallet or rolling pin between two sheets of plastic wrap. This not only helps them cook more evenly but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in juicier chicken that soaks up more flavor from the marinade.

Tip 2: Let the Chicken Rest After Baking

Just like with grilled meats, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking gives the juices time to redistribute. This means each bite will be more flavorful and moist. Simply cover the chicken loosely with foil and let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Tip 3: Use Fresh Garlic for Maximum Flavor

While jarred minced garlic is convenient, nothing beats the robust, aromatic punch of freshly grated or minced garlic. The fresher the garlic, the more powerful the flavor. Use a microplane for grating to release all that garlicky goodness straight into your marinade.

Tip 4: Double the Sauce for Meal Prep or Rice Bowls

If you’re planning to make rice bowls or want to meal prep for the week, double the sauce ingredients. That extra sticky-sweet glaze goes a long way when drizzled over grains, vegetables, or even used as a dipping sauce on the side.

Tip 5: Broil for a Golden Finish

Broiling at the end is optional but highly recommended. Just a few minutes under the broiler caramelizes the sauce and adds a subtle smokiness that makes the dish even more addictive. Be sure to watch closely so the honey doesn’t burn—stay near the oven and pull it out as soon as you see the edges begin to darken.

Tip 6: Add a Pinch of Heat (If You Like It Spicy)

If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. The heat balances beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the sauce, giving the dish a little extra kick without overwhelming the flavor.

Tip 7: Don’t Toss the Sauce—Transform It

Instead of discarding leftover sauce, pour it over cooked grains or roasted vegetables to add instant flavor. The sauce keeps well in the fridge for a few days and makes a fantastic drizzle for wraps, noodle bowls, or sandwiches.

Applying these tips won’t make the dish harder—they’ll actually make the cooking process smoother, more flavorful, and more enjoyable overall. Consider them your inside secrets to cooking this recipe like a pro.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When it comes to making sticky honey garlic chicken, a few questions tend to come up frequently. Here’s a comprehensive FAQ to help troubleshoot, plan ahead, and feel even more confident in the kitchen.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe and tend to stay even juicier than breasts. Just note that thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer or slice into one to be sure.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?
If you’re avoiding soy or gluten, liquid aminos or coconut aminos are great substitutes. Tamari is another excellent gluten-free option that provides the same umami flavor without the wheat.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is very meal-prep friendly. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and bake it when you’re ready. You can also bake and sauce the chicken ahead of time, then reheat it with a splash of water or broth on the stovetop or in the oven.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can substitute arrowroot powder or tapioca starch in equal amounts. These alternatives also work well for thickening the sauce. Avoid flour, as it doesn’t provide the same smooth texture.

Can I make this recipe without marinating the chicken?
You can, especially if you’re in a rush, but even a quick 10–15 minutes of marinating improves the flavor significantly. If skipping, consider brushing a little extra sauce onto the chicken before baking to build flavor.

How spicy is this recipe?
As written, this recipe is not spicy at all. However, it’s very easy to add a bit of heat by including red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a dash of chili garlic paste in the marinade or sauce.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, grilled chicken works beautifully with this recipe. Just make sure to cook over medium heat and baste with the thickened sauce at the end to avoid burning the honey.

What vegetables pair best with this dish?
Steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, sautéed bok choy, and snap peas all work beautifully. Even a fresh cucumber salad or shredded cabbage slaw with sesame dressing is a refreshing pairing.

Is this dish suitable for kids?
Definitely. Most kids love the sweetness of the honey glaze, and the lack of spice makes it a hit for younger palates. You can even serve the chicken sliced in wraps or sandwiches for lunchboxes.

Can I freeze the sauce on its own?
Yes, the thickened sauce can be frozen in a small airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge and warm it gently on the stovetop before using.

These common questions cover everything from ingredient swaps to cooking techniques. With this FAQ section on hand, you’ll be fully prepared to make—and customize—this recipe exactly to your liking.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake is more than just a quick dinner—it’s the kind of meal that checks every box. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight, flavorful enough to impress guests, and comforting enough to feel like a warm hug after a long day. It’s one of those dishes you can rely on time and time again because it never fails to satisfy.

The ingredients are simple and affordable, but the results taste like something special. The tender chicken, the sticky-sweet garlic glaze, and the optional touches of green onion and sesame seeds make it feel elevated, even though it’s totally approachable for home cooks of all skill levels.

You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your preferences, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re adding spice, changing up the protein, or doubling the sauce to stretch it into meal prep lunches, it’s flexible enough to suit your lifestyle.

But beyond all the practical reasons to love this recipe, here’s the real one: it brings people together. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down for just a moment, sit at the table, and enjoy something homemade and delicious. And honestly, what’s better than that?

So, I hope you give this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake a try soon. When you do, be sure to come back and let me know how it turned out! I’d love to hear your thoughts, see your photos, or answer any questions you might have. If you’re sharing on social media, don’t forget to tag me so I can cheer you on. Cooking should be fun, creative, and joyful—and this recipe is a perfect place to start.

Here’s to simple ingredients, big flavor, and meals that bring smiles to the table. You’ve got this!

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Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake – Easy Dinner Recipe


  • Author: Julia Hart
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bake is sweet, savory, and baked to perfection in just under 40 minutes. Made with pantry staples, it’s the perfect easy dinner for busy weeknights. Tender chicken is coated in a thick, glossy honey garlic sauce that’s downright addictive. Simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into thin cutlets

  • ⅓ cup honey

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or liquid aminos

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

  • 2 cloves garlic, grated

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 2 tablespoons cold water

  • Optional: green onions & sesame seeds for garnish


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, and grated garlic. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for 10–15 minutes.

  • Arrange chicken on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, flip, and bake another 10 minutes until fully cooked.

  • Meanwhile, bring leftover marinade to a boil in a small saucepan.

  • Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then whisk into boiling marinade. Simmer until thickened (3–4 minutes).

  • Toss baked chicken in sauce, or return to oven under the broiler for 2–3 minutes for extra caramelization.

  • Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 30 minutes.

  • Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

  • Double the sauce if serving over rice or veggies.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

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