My kitchen transformed into a chaotic blend of culinary ambition and what seemed like a slapstick comedy when preparing this. I attempted to create the mouthwatering Honey and Garlic Chicken dish that I’ve seen splattered across colourful recipe blogs and cooking shows. Armed with my trusty apron emblazoned with “I’m Just Here for the Food,” I kicked off the cooking extravaganza, only to quickly discover that honey has a magical ability to escape its jar and defy gravity. Before I knew it, there was a sticky puddle on the floor, like the scene of a sweet crime, and I was left contemplating whether to call in the chef police or slide gracefully across the kitchen like a figure skater.
As I wrestled with the garlic cloves, it was as if they possessed a vendetta against me. The aroma filled the air, but my eyes were streaming like I was watching a sappy movie on repeat. With each chop, I swear they were plotting to ruin my dinner plans. My attempt to impress dinner guests with a “simple” sauté transformed into an episode of “Survivor: Garlic Edition.” I took a deep breath, knowing that dinner must go on. I tossed the garlic into the pan only to realize I had accidentally primed a smoke signal, and my smoke alarm became the unwanted guest at my dinner party, blaring loudly and at the same time I attempted a dashing rescue of my garlic.
In the end, the Honey and Garlic Chicken emerged triumphantly from the oven. My friends arrived and marvelled at my culinary creation, while I shared tales of my honey-spilled kitchen floor and garlic tears with dramatic flair. We sat down to a feast that was more about the laughter and memories of this evening's cooking rather than the Michelin stars.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15-20 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
1 tablespoon cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame oil (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch and water mixture. Cook for an additional minute or two until the sauce thickens.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat it well with the honey garlic sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavours.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds. Serve the honey and garlic chicken over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.