20-Minute Honey Soy Chicken with Mango & Cashews: Your Ultimate Quick Dinner Recipe
Imagine a meal that hits all the right notes: warm, sweet, savory, and satisfying, yet doesn’t demand hours of your precious time in the kitchen. This 20-Minute Honey Soy Chicken with Mango is exactly that culinary dream come true. Picture tender, succulent chicken coated in a luscious, sticky honey soy sauce, beautifully complemented by the vibrant sweetness of fresh mango chunks and the delightful crunch of toasted cashews. It sounds like something you’d order from a fancy restaurant, but the reality is, it’s incredibly straightforward to make. And yes, you read that right – it’s genuinely ready to serve in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect solution for even the busiest of weeknights.
Why This Honey Soy Chicken is Your Go-To Easy Weeknight Dinner
We all have those evenings where time feels like it’s racing against us. The kids are clamoring for food, homework needs to be done, and after-school activities loom large. In these moments, a fast, flavorful, and fuss-free dinner is a lifesaver. That’s precisely when this incredible Honey Soy Chicken recipe shines. It’s a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and a touch of tangy, delivering an explosion of flavor with every juicy bite of chicken. Made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, it’s the kind of meal that magically disappears from plates, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.
My journey with this recipe began during one of the most chaotic work weeks I can remember. With just an hour before soccer practice, I needed something quick, wholesome, and, most importantly, delicious. This chicken dish was an instant success, becoming a permanent fixture in our dinner rotation. What makes it truly special is its incredible versatility; you can easily adapt it based on what ingredients you have on hand, ensuring a fresh and exciting meal every time.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet, Savory, and Tangy
The magic of this honey soy chicken lies in its perfectly balanced sauce. The rich, golden honey provides a delightful sweetness, while the savory soy sauce adds depth and umami. A hint of white wine or rice vinegar introduces a subtle tang, cutting through the richness and brightening the overall profile. When this sticky glaze coats tender chicken pieces, it creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and exhilarating. The fresh mango brings a burst of tropical sweetness and a soft, juicy texture, contrasting beautifully with the crunch of the cashews. It’s a culinary experience that is simple yet sophisticated.
Expert Tips for Crafting the Best Quick Honey Chicken with Mango and Cashews
- Add a Kick of Heat: For those who love a bit of spice, a spoonful of Sriracha sauce or a finely chopped red chili added to the sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred level of heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Making this dish gluten-free is simple! Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch to coat the chicken. Always double-check that your soy sauce is certified gluten-free, as many brands contain wheat. Tamari is an excellent gluten-free alternative.
- Mango Alternatives: If fresh mango isn’t available or in season, don’t despair! Canned pineapple chunks (drained) make for a fantastic tropical twist. Peaches or even bell peppers can also work if you’re looking for a different fruit or vegetable addition.
- Chicken Cut Choices: You have options when it comes to chicken! Chicken breast is a leaner choice, offering a lighter texture. Chicken thighs, on the other hand, are inherently juicier and more forgiving, adding a richer flavor to the dish. Both work beautifully, so choose what you prefer or have on hand.
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: While the chicken cooks quickly, ensure your rice is already started or prepped. A fluffy bed of white or brown rice is the ideal accompaniment to soak up all that delicious honey soy sauce.
- Toasting Cashews: For maximum crunch and flavor, quickly toast your cashews in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them. This brings out their nutty aroma and enhances their texture.
- Marinating for Deeper Flavor: If you have an extra 10-15 minutes, marinating the chicken in a small amount of soy sauce and a dash of ginger powder before coating in flour can add an extra layer of flavor complexity.
Did you make this delicious Honey Soy Chicken with Mango & Cashews recipe? I’d absolutely love to see your creation! Tag #byandreajanssen via Instagram! I regularly share the most beautiful photos from my amazing community of home cooks. Your culinary artistry inspires so many others!
Did you love this recipe? Your feedback is incredibly valuable! Please take a moment to leave a rating on the recipe card below. Your honest reviews help other home cooks discover and enjoy this fantastic dish, and it helps me continue to bring you more delicious and easy recipes.
Need more inspiration for quick, flavorful meals? Explore further:
- You can find step-by-step video recipes and cooking tips on my YouTube channel.
- And don’t forget to save your favorite recipes on Pinterest! It’s the easiest way to organize your cooking ideas and quickly find them again for your next meal prep session or spontaneous dinner.
📖 Recipe
VIDEO
RECIPE CARD
Andréa
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz. white rice, uncooked
For the chicken
- 1¼ pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons honey
- 1½ tablespoons white wine vinegar, or rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Japanese soy sauce
- ½ tablespoon curry powder
To serve
- 1 mango, diced
- â…“ cup cashew nuts
All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.
Instructions
-
Cook the rice according to package directions. For perfect fluffy rice, aim for a 1:2 rice to water ratio (e.g., 1 cup rice to 2 cups water), bring to a boil, then cover and simmer until all water is absorbed.12 oz. white rice
-
In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken breast evenly with the all-purpose flour until each piece is lightly coated. This helps create a beautiful golden crust and thickens the sauce later.1¼ pound chicken breast, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large non-stick pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the floured chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.3 tablespoons butter
-
If the chicken is still in the pan, push it to one side. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the empty side of the pan. Once melted, add the finely chopped red onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.1 red onion, 3 cloves garlic
-
Now, it’s time to build that amazing sauce! Add the halved cherry tomatoes, salt, honey, white wine vinegar (or rice vinegar), Japanese soy sauce, and curry powder to the pan. Stir everything together well, ensuring all the flavors are combined. Let this mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the tomatoes to soften.10 cherry tomatoes, 1 teaspoon salt, 5 tablespoons honey, 1½ tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Japanese soy sauce, ½ tablespoon curry powder
-
Return the cooked chicken back into the pan with the simmering sauce. Stir well to ensure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the sticky, flavorful glaze. Let it simmer for just another minute to heat the chicken through and allow it to absorb all the delicious flavors.
-
To serve, portion the fluffy white rice onto plates. Spoon a generous amount of the honey soy chicken and its glorious sauce over the rice. Finally, scatter the fresh diced mango and crunchy cashew nuts on top for a burst of color, flavor, and texture. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick, gourmet-style dinner!1 mango, â…“ cup cashew nuts
Notes
- Fridge: Leftovers of the honey soy chicken and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It makes for a fantastic quick lunch the next day!
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze the cooked rice separately to maintain its texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: To reheat, simply transfer the chicken and sauce to a pan with a splash of water or chicken broth, and warm over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until hot. Add fresh mango and cashews just before serving.
2. Ingredient Spotlight: The Power of Honey & Soy
- Honey: Beyond its natural sweetness, honey provides a beautiful glaze and helps the sauce adhere to the chicken, creating that irresistible sticky texture. It also caramelizes slightly, adding depth.
- Soy Sauce: The backbone of many Asian dishes, soy sauce brings essential umami and saltiness. Japanese soy sauce (like Kikkoman) is often preferred for its balanced flavor, but any good quality soy sauce will work. For a gluten-free option, use Tamari.
Nutrition
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was! We love hearing from you!
More Quick & Easy Asian-Inspired Stir-Fries and Dinners
If you loved the simplicity and fantastic flavors of this 20-Minute Honey Soy Chicken with Mango, you’re in for a treat! The beauty of quick stir-fries and Asian-inspired dishes is their ability to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Here are a few more recipes that will keep your weeknight meals exciting and delicious, always putting speed and taste first.
- 20-Minute Soba Noodles with Shrimp and Green Beans
- Fried Egg Noodles with Chicken
- Stir-fry Spinach with Feta and Potatoes
FAQs About Honey Soy Chicken with Mango
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, and they hold up well to quick cooking. Just ensure they are cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
What if I don’t have fresh mango?
No problem! Canned pineapple chunks (drained) are an excellent substitute for a similar sweet and tropical flavor. You could also try diced peaches or even bell peppers for a different flavor profile and added veggies.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a bit of heat, you can add a teaspoon or two of Sriracha sauce to the honey soy sauce mixture. Alternatively, finely chop a red chili pepper and sauté it with the onion and garlic for a more intense spice. Adjust to your personal preference!
Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?
Yes, it can be easily made gluten-free. Simply replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch to coat the chicken. Most importantly, ensure you use a certified gluten-free soy sauce (like Tamari), as traditional soy sauce contains wheat.
What can I serve with this Honey Soy Chicken besides rice?
While rice is a classic pairing, this dish is incredibly versatile. You could serve it with quinoa, brown rice, cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option), a side salad, or even sautéed greens like bok choy or broccoli. Egg noodles or soba noodles would also be delicious!
Final Thoughts on Your New Favorite 20-Minute Meal
This 20-Minute Honey Soy Chicken with Mango and Cashews isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to how quick and easy weeknight dinners can still be incredibly delicious and satisfying. It proves that you don’t need to compromise on flavor or quality when you’re short on time. With its sticky, sweet-and-savory chicken, juicy mango, and delightful crunch, it’s a dish that appeals to all ages and palates.
Whether you’re battling a busy schedule, looking for a healthy alternative to takeout, or simply want to impress your family with a flavorful meal without the fuss, this recipe delivers. So go ahead, give it a try. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create a culinary masterpiece that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, all in just 20 minutes!
Happy cooking!