Name: Honey and Ginger Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 large chicken breasts; ¼ cup honey; 2 tbsp ginger; 2 red bell peppers,; 1 large onion; 1 large head broccoli; 1 cup fresh pineapple; ½ cup honey

This recipe brings to life the delightful blend of honey and ginger, paired with succulent chicken. A medley of vegetables adds vibrancy while the pineapple introduces a tropical twist. The dish is colorful, aromatic, and packed with flavors that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.

Photos of Honey and Ginger Chicken Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are generally commonly found in most households. However, if fresh ginger is not readily available, it can easily be found in the produce section of your local supermarket. Similarly, fresh pineapple may not be a staple in every household, but can also be found in the produce aisle. Note that using fresh pineapple as opposed to canned pineapple will significantly enhance the taste of this dish.

Honey and Ginger Chicken Ingredients

Olive oil: Olive oil is used to sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables. Its mild flavor does not overpower the other ingredients.

Chicken breasts: This is the main protein in the dish. It absorbs the flavors of the honey and ginger well.

Honey: Honey adds sweetness to the dish, balancing out the spices.

Ginger: Ginger brings a fresh, zesty flavor and also helps tenderize the chicken.

Red bell peppers: Bell peppers add a crunch and a burst of color to the dish.

Onion: Onions are essential for a savory base.

Broccoli: Broccoli offers a contrasting texture and is a great source of vitamins.

Pineapple: Pineapple introduces a tropical sweetness that complements the honey and ginger.

One reader, Eden Michalski says:

This honey and ginger chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is so easy to make. The combination of honey and ginger creates a delightful sweet and tangy taste. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and healthy meal.

Eden Michalski

Key Techniques for Mastering This Recipe

How to cook the chicken: In a skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the chicken cubes, honey, and ginger. Cook and stir until the chicken is golden brown, about 10 minutes.

How to stir-fry the vegetables: Add the bell peppers, onion, broccoli, and pineapple to the skillet. Drizzle with the remaining honey. Cover and cook over medium-high heat until the vegetables are tender, about 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

How To Make Honey and Ginger Chicken

To get an Asian-inspired flavor to your chicken recipe, add some ginger. This will provide a spicy and minty taste while honey provides balance.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspolive oil
2largechicken breastsboneless, skinless, cubed
¼cuphoney
2tbspgingerfinely chopped
2redbell peppers,chopped
1largeonioncut into 8 wedges
1largehead broccolicut into florets
1cupfresh pineapplepeeled and cubed
½cuphoney

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add chicken cubes, ¼ cup honey, and ginger.
Cook and stir until chicken is golden brown, about 10 minutes.
Add bell peppers, onion, broccoli, pineapple, and remaining ¼ cup honey. Cover and cook over medium-high heat until vegetables are tender for about 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition

Calories: 374.01kcal
Fat: 11.87g
Saturated Fat: 2.63g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.99g
Carbohydrates: 52.02g
Fiber: 5.06g
Sugar: 42.42g
Protein: 19.67g
Cholesterol: 46.40mg
Sodium: 92.38mg
Calcium: 82.52mg
Potassium: 740.32mg
Iron: 1.98mg
Vitamin A: 119.77µg
Vitamin C: 178.95mg

One Crucial Technique Tip for Success

When cooking the chicken, make sure to stir it occasionally to ensure that it cooks evenly and absorbs the honey and ginger flavors thoroughly. Also, when adding the vegetables, try to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. If you prefer your vegetables to have a bit of crunch, reduce the cooking time accordingly. Remember, the pineapple will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish, so adjust the amount of honey to your liking.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks

Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pot wonder: Use a large skillet or wok to cook the entire dish in one go, minimizing clean-up time.

Batch cooking: Make a double portion and freeze half for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.

Ready-to-use ingredients: Utilize pre-cut vegetables and pre-sliced chicken to cut down on prep time.

Multitask: While the chicken is cooking, chop the vegetables to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey and Ginger Chicken Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu or tempeh: Tofu or tempeh can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken, providing a similar texture and protein content.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a comparable sweetness and depth of flavor, making it a great alternative to honey in this recipe.
ginger - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can provide a warm and aromatic flavor similar to ginger, adding a unique twist to the dish.
red bell peppers - Substitute with yellow bell peppers: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute, offering a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can be used as a substitute for broccoli, offering a similar texture and mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango can be used as a substitute for pineapple, providing a sweet and tropical flavor to the dish.
honey - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey, offering a similar level of sweetness and viscosity.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Presentation

Elevate the plating: Arrange the honey and ginger chicken in a visually appealing manner, ensuring each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Integrate the red bell peppers, pineapple, and broccoli to add a pop of color to the dish, creating an enticing visual appeal.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro or parsley over the dish to add a touch of freshness and elevate the overall presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Choose sophisticated and stylish serving plates or bowls that complement the dish and enhance the dining experience.
Create a balanced composition: Ensure that the components are arranged in a balanced and harmonious manner, creating an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Add a touch of flair with edible flowers: Incorporate edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies to add a delicate and elegant touch to the dish.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to stand out and be the focal point of the presentation.
Highlight the textures: Showcase the different textures of the dish by layering and arranging the ingredients thoughtfully on the plate.
Emphasize the glaze: Brush an extra layer of honey glaze on the chicken before serving to create a glossy and enticing finish.
Personalize with a signature touch: Consider adding a unique and personal element to the presentation that reflects your culinary style and creativity.

Essential Kitchen Tools You'll Need

Skillet or wok: A skillet or wok is a versatile cooking tool used for stir-frying, sautéing, and shallow frying. It typically has a flat bottom and curved sides, allowing for even heat distribution and efficient cooking.
Cutting board and knife: A cutting board and knife are essential for prepping ingredients such as chicken, vegetables, and pineapple. The cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping, while a sharp knife ensures clean and precise cuts.
Tongs: Tongs are useful for flipping and turning the chicken and vegetables while cooking. They provide a firm grip and help in evenly cooking the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are necessary for accurately portioning ingredients such as honey and ginger. This ensures the right balance of flavors in the dish.
Cooking spoon or spatula: A cooking spoon or spatula is used for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the skillet or wok. It helps in combining the flavors and ensuring even cooking.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Allow the honey and ginger chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the honey and ginger chicken, transfer the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
The frozen honey and ginger chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen honey and ginger chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
Transfer the thawed honey and ginger chicken to a skillet or wok and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out and adjust the consistency.
Serve the reheated honey and ginger chicken over a bed of steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

The Best Ways to Reheat Leftovers

Reheat in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken and vegetables are heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method helps to preserve the texture of the chicken and vegetables while ensuring even heating.
Microwave the leftover honey and ginger chicken in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes on high power. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. This method is quick and convenient but may result in slightly softer vegetables.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover honey and ginger chicken to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the sauce to thicken and the chicken and vegetables to crisp up slightly.
If you have a steamer, you can reheat the honey and ginger chicken by placing it in a heat-proof dish and steaming it for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and vegetables while gently reheating the dish.
For a quick and easy lunch, reheat the leftover honey and ginger chicken in a skillet or wok and serve it over freshly cooked rice or noodles. The hot rice or noodles will help to warm up the chicken and vegetables while absorbing any excess sauce.

A Surprising Fact You Didn't Know

Honey and ginger chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the warmth of ginger. This recipe is a great source of protein from the chicken and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Honey is known for its natural antibacterial properties, while ginger is often used for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. This dish is not only flavorful but also offers numerous health benefits. It's a perfect choice for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Budget-Friendly or Splurge-Worthy?

The honey and ginger chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and honey makes it budget-friendly. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a versatile and satisfying option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, depending on the availability and pricing of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8.

Is This Chicken Recipe Healthy or Not So Much?

The honey and ginger chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients such as:

Chicken breast, which is a lean protein source
Broccoli, a vegetable packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Bell peppers and onions, which provide additional vitamins and antioxidants
Ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory properties

However, the recipe also has some less healthy components:

The use of olive oil for cooking adds extra calories and fat
The high amount of honey (½ cup in total) significantly increases the sugar content
The inclusion of pineapple, while providing vitamins and minerals, also adds to the overall sugar content

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of honey to 2-3 tablespoons in total, as it is still enough to provide a sweet flavor without excessive sugar
Use a non-stick pan or wok to minimize the need for added oil, or opt for a healthier cooking method like baking or grilling the chicken
Include a wider variety of vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Serve the honey and ginger chicken with a side of brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and complex carbohydrates
Experiment with different spices and herbs, like garlic, cilantro, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor without relying on sugar

By incorporating these changes, you can transform this honey and ginger chicken recipe into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your taste buds. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying a variety of whole foods is the foundation of a healthy diet.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Dish

This honey and ginger chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The use of honey and ginger adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the chicken, while the addition of colorful vegetables and pineapple provides a refreshing and vibrant touch. The dish is well-balanced and offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. It's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with rice or noodles for a complete meal. Overall, it's a delicious and wholesome dish that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Enhance Your Honey and Ginger Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, such as juicy watermelon, sweet strawberries, and tangy kiwi, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing.

Similar Recipes to Try Next

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and spicy seasonings. It's a quick and easy dish that's sure to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and savory.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This mango salsa chicken is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a zesty mango salsa. It's a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this mushroom risotto. The combination of tender Arborio rice, earthy mushrooms, and savory seasonings creates a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Appetizer and Dessert Suggestions

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Indulge in the rich and earthy flavors of savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a decadent mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These bite-sized delights are the perfect way to kick off any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with crispy coconut shrimp. Each bite is a crunchy, succulent explosion of flavor, with a hint of sweetness from the coconut and a touch of heat from the accompanying dipping sauce.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a crunchy oat topping. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Honey and Ginger Chicken Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of honey and ginger that infuses the chicken with a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. The addition of red bell peppers, onion, broccoli, and pineapple not only enhances the flavor but also provides a colorful array of essential nutrients. The use of olive oil ensures a healthy cooking method, while the careful cooking process guarantees tender and succulent chicken. Trust in the harmonious blend of flavors and the wholesome ingredients to create a memorable dining experience.

Have you tried this honey and ginger chicken recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through.

Can I substitute the fresh pineapple with canned pineapple?

Certainly! You can use canned pineapple if fresh pineapple is not available. Just make sure to drain the canned pineapple before adding it to the recipe.

Is there a substitute for honey if I want to make this dish less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet flavor, you can substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both options will provide a milder sweetness to the dish.

Can I prepare this dish in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and reheat it later. Store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it in a skillet or microwave when ready to serve.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetables you choose to add.