Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a lunch you’ll actually look forward to all week, this Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep is the answer. Every bite is packed with juicy chicken, sticky-sweet-tangy sauce, crisp broccoli, and fluffy quinoa—a flavor combination so satisfying it’ll make you crave your packed lunch. The best part? It’s all prepped in just about a half hour, so you can enjoy healthy, delicious meals all week long.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Meal Prep Magic: This recipe is designed so your future self can grab a lunch or dinner that tastes fresh-made all week long.
  • Seriously Saucy: The homemade honey garlic sauce hits every flavor note—sweet, savory, a little spicy, and totally addictive.
  • Better-Than-Takeout Healthiness: You get all the crunch, color, and comfort of your favorite takeout, with less oil and way less guilt.
  • Easy to Customize: The recipe is super versatile—switch out the veggies, swap the grains, or dial up the spice to fit your mood!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep recipe keeps things simple—but don’t underestimate the power of each ingredient! Every element plays a role, from the cornstarch for crisp chicken to the bold, spicy-sweet sauce that ties it all together. Here’s why each item matters:

  • Chicken breasts: Lean, juicy, and packed with protein; they soak up the honey garlic sauce perfectly.
  • Egg: Acts as the first layer for dredging, ensuring the cornstarch sticks for a delicious, crisp crust.
  • Cornstarch: The secret to that golden, lightly crispy chicken without deep frying.
  • Avocado or groundnut oil: High-heat oils that make stir-frying quick, easy, and flavorful.
  • Broccoli: Fresh, vibrant florets add color, crunch, and a burst of nutrition.
  • Cooked quinoa: This nutty grain is a protein powerhouse and the perfect base for sauce-soaked chicken (feel free to substitute brown rice!).
  • Honey: The major flavor player—sweet, rich, and so comforting in the sauce.
  • Sriracha sauce: Brings a little heat and a lot of personality, but you can always dial it down.
  • Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for that classic fragrant bite.
  • Rice vinegar: Adds tang to balance the sweetness and make the flavors pop.
  • Sesame oil: Just a touch gives the chicken and sauce a hint of toasty warmth.
  • Green onions & sesame seeds (to garnish): For color, crunch, and a little bit of chef’s flair.
  • Kosher salt and pepper: Basic, but essential for bringing out every flavor.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I adore about Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep is how endlessly adaptable it is. You can swap in your favorite veggies, adjust the grains, or vary the level of spice—so it’s never boring, even when you make it week after week!

  • Switch Up the Protein: Try boneless chicken thighs for a juicier bite or swap in shrimp for a seafood twist—just keep the prep steps the same.
  • Choose Your Veggies: If broccoli isn’t your favorite, green beans, Brussels sprouts, snow peas, or colorful bell peppers all work beautifully.
  • Change the Base: Don’t feel like quinoa? Brown rice, cauliflower rice, or cooked noodles each give a new vibe to your bowls.
  • Mild or Wild: Cut back on sriracha for less heat, or toss in extra chili if you like a spicy kick.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

Step 1: Coat the Chicken

Set up two bowls: one with beaten egg, another with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Dunk the chicken pieces first into the egg, then into the cornstarch, making sure every piece is light, evenly coated, and ready for the pan. This simple prep delivers that irresistible crispy edge on the outside, while keeping the chicken deliciously tender inside.

Step 2: Sauté to Golden Perfection

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single, uncrowded layer and let them sizzle. Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning with tongs until every bite is golden brown and cooked through. They should smell amazing already!

Step 3: Whisk and Glaze

While the chicken cooks, whisk up the honey, sriracha, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a bowl. Once your chicken is golden and ready, pour the sauce right into the skillet and toss to coat every piece. The sauce will bubble and thicken, creating that glossy, restaurant-style finish.

Step 4: Quick Stir-Fried Broccoli

Wipe your skillet clean, add the last bit of oil, and crank up the heat. Toss in the broccoli florets, season with salt and pepper, and cook just until the edges start to brown—about 2–3 minutes. They should stay bright green and have a tender-crisp bite (no mushy broccoli here!).

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Spoon about ½ cup of cooked quinoa into each meal prep bowl. Arrange the stir-fried broccoli and honey garlic chicken on top, then finish with a sprinkle of green onions, sesame seeds, and maybe a lime wedge for an extra pop. Your Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep is officially done—refrigerate and enjoy all week!

Pro Tips for Making Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

  • Ultra-Crispy Chicken: Make sure your chicken pieces aren’t overlapping in the pan—crowding will steam them, not crisp them!
  • Sauce Timing Perfection: Add the sauce once the chicken is cooked and golden—this lets the glaze stick instead of sliding off.
  • Quinoa Fluff Factor: Cook quinoa with a few extra minutes of steam-off time. This keeps it from clumping up and makes each bite light and fluffy in your meal prep bowls.
  • Veggie Vibrance: Don’t overcook your broccoli—just a quick stir-fry keeps it bright green and snappy for the whole week.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

The finishing touches make all the difference with Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep! Sprinkle on black and white sesame seeds for irresistible crunch and nutty flavor, plus thinly sliced green onions for freshness and a pop of color. Lime wedges add brightness if you love a citrusy kick just before eating.

Side Dishes

If you’re packing this meal for lunch, it’s complete as is! For dinner, pair your Honey Garlic Chicken bowls with chilled cucumber salad, simple pickled carrots, steamed edamame, or even some miso soup for cozy comfort. A crunchy Asian-style slaw would also be delicious and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the chicken, broccoli, and quinoa in glass meal prep jars for a grab-and-go “power parfait.” Arrange components in colorful bento boxes, or sprinkle edible flowers or microgreens on top for a gourmet touch if you’re serving guests. A drizzle of extra sauce or chili crisp amps up both the look and flavor when you want to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer your completely cooled Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep bowls into airtight containers. They’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, which means weekday meals are sorted—and no more sad desk lunches!

Freezing

If you want to freeze portions, pack the chicken and broccoli together but keep the quinoa separate for best texture. Freeze up to 2 months, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat until hot throughout. Add fresh garnishes right before eating for that just-made taste.

Reheating

To reheat, a gentle zap in the microwave works wonders—just cover with a damp paper towel to keep everything juicy. You can also warm it in a skillet over low heat for extra flavor, or enjoy straight from the fridge for a chilled, salad-style meal (especially delicious in summer!).

FAQs

  1. Can I make Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

    Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are even juicier and add more flavor. Just dice them, prepare the same way, and enjoy that extra tenderness.

  2. Is this meal spicy? How can I make it milder or spicier?

    The sriracha adds a pleasant background heat, but you can always reduce or omit it for a mild version. If you like a fiery kick, add extra sriracha or a pinch of crushed red pepper to the sauce!

  3. What if I don’t have quinoa? Can I use something else?

    Yes! Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep works well with brown rice, white rice, cauliflower rice, or even soba noodles. Just use what you love or already have in your pantry.

  4. Can I assemble these meal prep bowls ahead and keep everything fresh?

    Definitely. Prep all the components and store in separate compartments or bowls if you want to keep textures distinct, or layer everything together for grab-and-go ease—the garnishes are best added just before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to transform your lunch routine or just want a wholesome dinner that makes you excited for leftovers, give this Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep a try. There’s something so comforting about knowing delicious, nourishing meals are waiting for you—and this one just happens to be packed with flavor and color. Enjoy every single bite!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 51 reviews
  • Author: Lauren
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Stovetop
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian

Description

This Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep recipe is a delicious and easy way to prepare a flavorful meal in advance. Tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, served with fresh broccoli and quinoa, make for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 tablespoons avocado or groundnut oil divided
  • 4 chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons sriracha sauce
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

To Garnish:

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 12 teaspoons black and white sesame seeds, or as desired
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa
  • 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten egg, then coat them with the cornstarch mixture.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Brown the coated chicken pieces in oil until golden on all sides.
  3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: Whisk together honey, sriracha, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a bowl. Toss the cooked chicken in the sauce.
  4. Stir Fry the Broccoli: Quickly stir fry the broccoli in the skillet until slightly browned.
  5. Assemble the Meal Prep Bowls: Divide quinoa, broccoli, and chicken among bowls. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
  6. Serve: Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Enjoy cold or reheat before serving.

Notes

  • Chicken: Lean chicken breast is recommended, but boneless chicken thighs or shrimp can be used.
  • Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli can be used. Substitute with other favorite vegetables if desired.
  • Oil: Any cooking oil of choice can be used.
  • Quinoa: Brown rice can be used instead of quinoa.
  • Spice Level: Adjust sriracha sauce to taste for desired spice level.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 565 kcal
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 1323mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0.03g
  • Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 58g
  • Cholesterol: 191mg

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star