Follow these simple steps to create delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Bites:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the cubed chicken thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear and preventing the chicken from steaming in the pan. Place the dried chicken cubes in a medium bowl.
2. Coat the Chicken: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken pieces. Toss gently but thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated. The cornstarch coating is key to achieving that slightly crisp exterior and helping the sauce adhere later. Set aside for a few minutes while you prepare the sauce.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. If using red pepper flakes, add them here. Whisk until the honey is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth. Set aside.
4. Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil (or avocado oil) and let it heat up until it shimmers slightly. You want the pan hot enough to sear the chicken quickly.
5. Cook the Chicken (First Batch): Carefully add about half of the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan! Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature, causing the chicken to steam rather than sear, resulting in a less desirable texture. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate.
6. Cook the Chicken (Second Batch): If necessary, add a tiny bit more oil to the skillet. Add the remaining chicken pieces and cook in the same manner as the first batch – searing until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer this batch to the plate with the first batch.
7. Make the Glaze: Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium-low. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Let it bubble gently for 1-2 minutes, or until it starts to thicken slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools and when the chicken is added. Be careful not to let it simmer too vigorously or for too long, as the honey can burn. Scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan – these add great flavor to the sauce.
8. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return all the cooked chicken bites to the skillet with the simmering sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of chicken is generously coated in the sticky honey garlic glaze. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to fully coat the chicken and thicken to a beautiful glaze consistency.
9. Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Immediately transfer the Honey Garlic Chicken Bites to a serving platter or individual plates.
10. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions before serving for added flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Serve hot and enjoy!