Honey Soy Glazed Chicken

I first made this after spotting something similar in the Whole Foods hot bar, and honestly, this homemade version is lighter, just as delicious, and so much more affordable.

The chicken turns out perfectly juicy and flavorful from a simple honey soy marinade. Just whisk it together, let the chicken soak up the flavors (30 minutes is plenty), then cook it in a skillet, on the grill, or under the broiler. Serve it up with your favorite sides for an easy takeout-style meal at home!

Before You Get Started

A few things will help you get perfect results, no matter how you cook it.

• Marinate for max flavor: Even 30 minutes is great, but overnight in the fridge makes the flavors pop.
• Cut for quicker cooking: Butterfly the chicken breasts or cut them into bite-sized pieces for fast, even cooking.
• Choose your method: This chicken works in a skillet, on the grill, under the broiler, or baked in the oven—just adjust the time for thickness.
• Don’t expect a thick glaze: The sauce is light and thin, perfect for drizzling over rice or veggies.

How to Make Honey Soy Glazed Chicken

Dinner doesn’t get much easier. Just marinate, cook, and enjoy!

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, green onions, and garlic. Add the chicken, turning to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight is best for max flavor).

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (let the excess drip off). Add to the skillet and cook 5–7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.

Cooking method: Once the chicken is marinated, there are lots of different options for cooking it. You can cook it in a skillet as shared in the directions. You could also grill it or cook it in the broiler. It will take 3-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. It can also be baked in the oven. At 400 degrees, it will likely take 15-18 minutes if butterflied or about 25 minutes if whole. Cook it with the marinade to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Tips and Tricks for this Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Recipe

There are lots of ways to customize this recipe to fit any tastes and work with many different types of protein and cooking methods.

• Make it spicy: If you are like me and like everything spicy, then feel free to add some Sriracha, Asian garlic chili paste, or a fresh jalapeno to the mix. You can also serve it on the side once it is cooked if not everyone in your home loves spice.
• Add ginger: Kick up the flavor even more with some freshly grated ginger or ground ginger.
• Different proteins: This marinade works for so many different proteins. Try it with chicken thighs, chicken drumsticks, pork tenderloin, or steak.
• Meal prep ready: Slice cooked chicken and serve over rice, quinoa, or veggies for easy lunches all week.

Serving Ideas

Bring your meal together with these simple sides:

• Serve with brown rice, white rice, Healthy Fried Rice, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option
• Add Sesame Broccoli, Sesame Green Beans, or Sesame Sugar Snap Peas
• Top with toasted sesame seeds or extra green onions
• Toss into a salad or wrap for a protein boost

Storage and Reheating

Keep any leftovers for quick meals all week long.

• Store: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Sliced or whole, up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Gently in the microwave or a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the chicken moist.