Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 3 tablespoons water
– Fresh chopped parsley or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, soy sauce, garlic, oil, vinegar, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Heat the mixture until it’s well combined and starts simmering, stirring occasionally.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Pour this slurry into the saucepan and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (the internal temperature has reached 165°F/75°C).
7. Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through cooking to ensure it stays moist and the flavors penetrate the meat.
8. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven, and let it rest for a few minutes.
9. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped parsley or sesame seeds for garnish.

10. Serve your baked honey garlic chicken hot with your choice of side dish, and enjoy a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors in each bite.