Print

Sticky Pomegranate Chicken Recipe

5 from 124 reviews

This Sticky Pomegranate Chicken recipe features succulent chicken thighs cooked to a golden brown and coated in a luscious, tangy-sweet pomegranate sauce. Enhanced with garlic, ginger, honey, and soy sauce, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and a beautiful glossy finish. Garnished with fresh pomegranate seeds and parsley, it makes for an impressive yet easy meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pomegranate Sauce

  • 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)

Garnish

  • Pomegranate seeds (for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts evenly on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the hot skillet and sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Pomegranate Sauce: Using the same skillet, pour in the pomegranate juice, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: When the sauce starts to simmer, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water). Continue simmering for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency.
  5. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning the pomegranate sauce over it to coat thoroughly. Let it cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish the chicken with fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley. Serve warm alongside rice or your preferred side dish.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, chicken thighs are preferred but breasts can be substituted.
  • If pomegranate juice is unavailable, cranberry juice can be used as a substitute for a similar tartness.
  • Adjust honey quantity to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet sauce.
  • Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to get a nice sear.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Keywords: Sticky Pomegranate Chicken, Pomegranate Chicken Recipe, Sweet and Tangy Chicken, Easy Chicken Dinner, Chicken Thighs Recipe