Sticky Honey Garlic Pork: A Sweet and Savory Dinner Favorite

When you’re looking for a dinner that’s easy to make yet packed with bold flavors, this Sticky Honey Garlic Pork delivers on all fronts. It’s a simple dish that transforms everyday pork into something special, with a glossy, sweet, and savory glaze that clings to every bite.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly with just a few pantry staples. The sauce is a perfect balance of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sesame creating that crave-worthy combination of sticky, sweet, and salty that keeps you coming back for more.

If you’ve ever ordered honey garlic pork at a restaurant and wanted to recreate it at home, this recipe will be your new go-to. It’s quick, flavorful, and tastes like takeout (but even better because it’s homemade.

this Recipe

What Is Sticky Honey Garlic Pork?

Sticky Honey Garlic Pork is a skillet-cooked pork dish glazed with a sauce made from honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of vinegar or lime for balance. It’s typically served over rice and garnished with sesame seeds and cilantro for a fresh finish.

The pork is seared until golden brown, then simmered in the sticky sauce until it thickens and coats the meat perfectly. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Minimal ingredients – Most are pantry staples.
• Better than takeout – Bold flavors without the delivery wait.
• Customizable – Adjust sweetness or spice to your taste.
• Family-friendly – Everyone loves sticky-sweet sauces.

What Does Sticky Honey Garlic Pork Taste Like?

This dish hits all the right notes:

• Sweet – From the honey glaze.
• Savory and salty – Thanks to soy sauce.
• Garlicky – Fresh garlic adds bold flavor.
• Slightly tangy – A squeeze of lime or a splash of vinegar balances the sweetness.
• Sticky and glossy – The sauce clings to the pork for maximum flavor in every bite.

It’s the kind of dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice because the sauce soaks into the rice, making every spoonful delicious.

Benefits of Making Sticky Honey Garlic Pork

• One-pan cooking – Less cleanup.
• Affordable – Uses budget-friendly pork cuts.
• Quick dinner solution – Great for busy nights.
• Versatile – Works with chicken or tofu too.
• Freezer-friendly – Store leftovers for later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pork:

• 1 1/2 lbs pork tenderloin or pork chops, sliced into strips
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (for coating)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For Garnish:

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Use chicken or shrimp instead of pork.
• Make it spicier – Add more red pepper flakes or sriracha.
• Add vegetables – Toss in broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers.
• Try fresh ginger – A teaspoon of grated ginger adds extra depth.
• Use maple syrup – Swap honey for maple for a twist.

How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Pork

Step 1: Prep the Pork

Slice pork into thin strips.

Toss the pork in cornstarch until evenly coated—this helps the sauce stick and creates a light crust when seared.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar or lime juice, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.

Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pork

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the pork and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour the honey garlic sauce over the cooked pork.

Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the pork in a sticky glaze.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro.

Serve over steamed rice with lime wedges on the side.

What to Serve with Sticky Honey Garlic Pork

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Stir-fried vegetables
• Pickled cucumbers or kimchi
• A side of edamame
• Fresh salad with ginger dressing

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook the pork in batches if necessary to keep it crispy.
• Use fresh garlic – For the best flavor, avoid garlic powder in this recipe.
• Adjust sauce thickness – Simmer longer if you want a thicker glaze.
• Serve immediately – The pork is best fresh while the sauce is hot and sticky.

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 720mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with chicken instead of pork?
Yes! Chicken breast or thighs work great.

Is this recipe spicy?
It’s mild unless you add extra red pepper flakes.

Can I grill the pork?
Yes, grill the pork and brush the sauce on during the last minute of cooking.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Conclusion

Sticky Honey Garlic Pork is the kind of dinner that’s easy enough for a weeknight but tasty enough to feel special. The sauce is perfectly sticky and sweet with just the right amount of savory garlic flavor. Whether you’re making this for family dinner or meal prep, it’s bound to become a regular in your rotation.

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July 18, 2025 by Melissa