Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry

Name: Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp honey; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 inch fresh ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked jasmine rice for serving

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Classics

I love making Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn't skimp on flavor! The combination of sweet honey with savory soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that coats tender chicken and crisp vegetables. This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. I enjoy serving it over jasmine rice, which soaks up all the delicious sauce. Get your chopsticks ready for a meal that's sure to please the whole family!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:09:36.545Z

When I first experimented with this Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create a dish bursting with flavor. I often choose chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender, even with high heat. After marinating the chicken, I stir-fry everything quickly, which allows the veggies to retain their crunch.

One tip I’ve found is to use fresh ginger and garlic for an extra kick. It elevates the dish and pairs beautifully with the honey and soy sauce. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a weeknight favorite in your household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory glaze that enhances every bite
Quick cooking time perfect for busy evenings
Packed with colorful vegetables for a nutritious meal

Unlocking the Flavors of Honey and Soy

The combination of honey and soy sauce is what sets this stir fry apart. Honey brings a natural sweetness that balances the umami flavor of soy sauce, creating a glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken and vegetables. For an extra depth of flavor, consider using a dark soy sauce, which adds richness and a slight sweetness. If you're looking for a lighter option, a low-sodium soy sauce still works well without overpowering the dish.

Incorporating freshly minced garlic and ginger into the marinade elevates the taste. Garlic adds a robust flavor while ginger introduces a pleasant warmth. Make sure to finely mince both ingredients to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the marinade, maximizing their impact. This technique not only enhances the sauce but also complements the texture of the chicken, allowing it to absorb the marinade effectively.

Perfectly Stir-Frying Vegetables

When it comes to stir-frying, timing is crucial. You want to cook your vegetables until they are tender-crisp, which means they should retain some bite and vibrant color. Start adding the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots just after the chicken is browned. Stir-fry them for around 5 minutes, keeping the heat at medium-high to ensure they cook quickly while still maintaining their structure.

A common mistake is overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying. If you're doubling this recipe, consider using two pans to give everything enough space to develop that lovely caramelization and avoid mushy vegetables. Keep an eye on them; you're aiming for bright colors and a glossy appearance as they absorb the flavors from the chicken and marinade.

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp honey
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup carrots, julienned
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 inch fresh ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked jasmine rice for serving

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken pieces and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Stir Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Add Vegetables

Add bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

Combine It All

Pour the reserved marinade over the stir-fry and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Serve

Serve hot over jasmine rice and enjoy your delicious Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add sesame seeds or green onions as a garnish before serving. Adjust the honey and soy sauce according to your taste preference for sweetness or saltiness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to prep in advance, the marinade can be made up to a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep the chicken in the marinade for no longer than 24 hours, as the acidity can start to break it down, resulting in a change in texture. When stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers can last for 3-4 days in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy this meal multiple times throughout the week.

For freezing, it's best to separate the chicken from the cooked vegetables. You can freeze the stir fry without rice, placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture. Add freshly cooked jasmine rice to keep the meal feeling vibrant and fresh.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving this Honey Soy Chicken Stir Fry over jasmine rice is a classic choice, but don't be afraid to get creative! Consider pairing it with quinoa for a protein-rich alternative or serving it over rice noodles for a different twist. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions right before serving for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

To customize this dish, feel free to swap the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Snap peas, zucchini, or even baby corn can work beautifully in this stir fry. If you're looking to add some heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can give a lovely kick without overpowering the original flavor profile. Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly for softer vegetables!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins in this stir fry?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add snap peas, zucchini, or bok choy for more variety!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead.