Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe

If you are looking for a hearty, flavorful, and super convenient dish to power you through busy days, this Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep will quickly become your go-to favorite. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy quinoa, every bite bursts with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a gentle kick from the garlic and sriracha combo. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its mouthwatering taste but also in how effortlessly it fits into your weekly routine, turning meal prep from a chore into a delicious ritual.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are all simple, fresh, and each plays an essential role in delivering the fantastic taste and perfect texture of this meal prep. From the crunchy broccoli adding color and nutrients to the lightly crisp chicken coated in honey garlic sauce, every element works together to create a dish you’ll crave again and again.

• Avocado or groundnut oil: A neutral oil perfect for frying that ensures a golden, crispy finish on the chicken.
• Chicken breasts (diced): Tender protein cubes that absorb the sauce beautifully for juicy bites.
• Large egg (beaten): Helps the cornstarch coating stick to the chicken, giving it a delightful crust.
• Cornstarch: Creates a light, crispy coating to lock in moisture when frying the chicken pieces.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and vegetables evenly.
• Broccoli florets: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color, boosting the dish’s health factor.
• Cooked quinoa: A protein-packed, fluffy grain base that rounds out the meal with excellent texture.
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness that perfectly balances the garlic and spicy elements.
• Sriracha sauce: Adds a gentle heat that wakes up the taste buds without overpowering.
• Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses deep umami notes that are key to the dish’s irresistible flavor.
• Rice vinegar: Brings a tangy brightness to the sauce, cutting through the richness.
• Sesame oil: Offers a nuanced, nutty aroma that lifts the whole meal.
• Green onions (thinly sliced): Adds a fresh, mild oniony crunch as a finishing touch.
• Black and white sesame seeds: Sprinkled for visual appeal and a subtle nutty crunch.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

Step 1: Prep the Coating

Start by preparing two separate bowls—one with the beaten egg, and the other with cornstarch mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple step is crucial as it ensures each chicken piece gets evenly coated, producing that golden, crispy crust once cooked.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each diced chicken piece in the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully covered, then toss it into the cornstarch mixture. Give everything a gentle shake or toss so the chicken is evenly dusted. This process locks in juiciness when fried and adds that irresistibly crisp bite.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of your chosen oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, careful not to crowd the pan, so they cook evenly and get nicely browned. Fry for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning regularly until all sides achieve a beautiful golden color and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Sauce and Toss

While the chicken cooks, whisk together honey, sriracha, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a medium bowl. Once the chicken is done, pour this sauce over it and gently toss to coat every piece with that luscious, sticky glaze. Set aside and let those flavors mingle.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Broccoli

Quickly wipe out your skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of oil before heating it again. Now toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to brown and soften just a bit. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove from heat. This adds a vibrant crunch and slight caramelization boosting their natural flavor.

Step 6: Assemble Your Meal Prep Bowls

Divide about half a cup of cooked quinoa into each meal prep container as a fluffy base. Next, layer the tender broccoli and honey garlic chicken evenly over the grains. Finish with a sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds to create a colorful, inviting bowl ready to keep you fueled all week long.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

Garnishes

Garnishes like fresh green onions and a scattering of black and white sesame seeds are simple yet transformative, adding a fresh crunch and visual appeal that makes every meal feel special. For a citrusy zest, a wedge of lime adds brightness that cuts through the rich, sticky sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

While this meal prep shines on its own, pairing it with sides like steamed jasmine rice, crunchy Asian slaw, or even roasted sweet potatoes can add more variety and texture to your meals. A light cucumber salad with a tangy dressing also complements the honey garlic flavors brilliantly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, transform your bowl into a lettuce wrap station, letting family or friends scoop the chicken and veggies into crisp leaves. Alternatively, layering everything in a mason jar creates an easy grab-and-go lunch option that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for prepping a few meals at once. This means less time cooking and more time enjoying your delicious, ready-made dishes.

Freezing

If you want to extend the life of your meal prep, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. Although quinoa freezes well, the broccoli may soften slightly, so consider adding fresh or quickly steamed veggies when reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your meal prep in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first. A quick splash of water or a drizzle of sesame oil can help revive the texture and flavor when warming up.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, and they work wonderfully in this Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep. Just adjust cooking times slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free cornstarch and ensure your sauces (such as sriracha) do not contain gluten. Always check labels to be safe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

You can swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to make it vegan-friendly. The technique remains the same, and it’s just as delicious.

What’s the best way to cook quinoa for meal prep?

Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook with a 1:2 quinoa-to-water ratio over medium heat until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool before adding to your meal prep containers.

How spicy is the sriracha sauce in this dish?

The sriracha adds a gentle, balanced heat that complements the honey’s sweetness rather than overpowering. You can adjust the amount used to match your preferred spice level.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and convenience, making it a lifesaver when you want tasty, wholesome meals without spending hours in the kitchen. I can’t recommend it enough—once you try it, you’ll understand why it becomes a staple in your weekly rotation. Ready, set, prep and enjoy every bite!

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