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Honey Soy Chicken: Sweet, Savory, and Oh-So-Sticky!

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You know that sticky, sweet, and savory chicken from your favorite takeout spot? Yeah, we’re making that at home—only better. This Sticky Honey Soy Glazed Chicken is the perfect blend of salty, sweet, and umami, with a caramelized glaze that clings to every juicy bite. It’s easy, quick, and so delicious that you might just ditch takeout for good. Bonus: your kitchen will smell amazing!

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

2 tbsp soy sauce

3 tbsp honey

1 tbsp hoisin sauce

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tsp sesame oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Simmer & Glaze: Pour the sauce into the skillet. Let it bubble and thicken for about 3-4 minutes. If needed, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce for a thicker consistency.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Flip the chicken a few times to fully coat it in the sticky, glossy sauce.
  5. Serve & Enjoy: Transfer to a plate, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, and serve with steamed rice or stir-fried veggie

Notes

Tips, Pairings, & Garnishment

⭐ For Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken in half of the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
🥢 Pair With: Steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried broccoli, or a fresh cucumber salad.
🍶 Drink Match: A cold glass of sake or a light, citrusy white wine like Riesling.
🌶 Spice it Up: Add a drizzle of sriracha or more red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Umami is the fifth taste (alongside sweet, salty, sour, and bitter) that gives food a deep, savory, and almost meaty flavor. It’s what makes foods like soy sauce, mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, and miso taste so rich and satisfying. The word “umami” comes from Japanese and roughly translates to “deliciousness” or “savory taste.”

In your Sticky Honey Soy Glazed Chicken, the umami comes from soy sauce and hoisin sauce, which add that irresistible depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more!

You pronounce umami as “oo-MAH-mee” ( /uːˈmɑːmi/ ).

Think of it like saying “ooh, mommy!” but with the emphasis on the second syllable: oo-MAH-mee. 😊

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://joyistalife.com/recipe/honey-soy-chicken-sweet-savory-and-oh-so-sticky/