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Achieving a perfectly seared golden-brown crust on your chicken is crucial for the flavor and texture of your Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bites. The process begins with selecting the right cut of chicken. Chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe due to their higher fat content, which helps in developing a rich, caramelized exterior.

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites with Jasmine Rice

Discover the perfect blend of sweet and savory with Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Bites! This easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Made with tender chicken thighs, a rich honey glaze, and aromatic spices, these bites are versatile enough to be served over jasmine rice, as appetizers, or in salads. Get ready to indulge your taste buds and elevate your cooking skills with this delightful dish that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

1 cup jasmine rice

1 3/4 cups water

Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, fresh ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.

    Marinate the Chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.

      Cook the Jasmine Rice: Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps with texture. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 3/4 cups of water and a pinch of salt to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, stir slightly, then cover the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until tender and the water is fully absorbed. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.

        Sear the Chicken Bites: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken from the bowl (set aside the leftover marinade) and arrange the pieces in a single layer in the skillet. Allow them to cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly browned and cooked through.

          Create the Sauce: Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer; allow it to thicken for about 3-5 minutes. Now, stir in the cornstarch slurry and reduce the heat, letting it bubble for an extra minute until the sauce is glossy and thick.

            Garnish and Serve: Spoon the sticky honey garlic chicken bites over the fluffy jasmine rice. To finish, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 45 mins | Serves 4

                - Presentation Tips: To enhance visual appeal, serve in deep bowls, layering the rice first and elegantly stacking the chicken bites on top. Finish with a drizzle of sauce from the skillet.