Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. It transforms simple chicken breasts into an impressive, mouth-watering meal in just 30 minutes. The chicken is pan-fried to golden perfection, then coated in a sticky honey-garlic sauce that thickens into a glossy, irresistible glaze. This dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests without much effort.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter, divided

• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar

• ⅓ cup honey

• Kosher salt to taste

• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

• Green onions, thinly sliced for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally into four thinner pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Lightly coat with flour.

2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

3. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the sliced garlic. Sauté for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant.

4. Simmer the Sauce: Add soy sauce, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and scrape up the browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes, thickening to a glossy consistency.

5. Finish the Dish: Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer in the sauce for 1 minute until warm. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier result, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time to about 6-7 minutes per side.

• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce to add a spicy kick.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.

• Additional Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for a more filling meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and stay even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time to about 6-7 minutes per side.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 4-5 minutes per side.

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?

Rice, steamed vegetables, noodles, or a simple green salad make perfect sides for this dish.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat before adding the chicken.

How long does leftover honey garlic chicken last?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent drying.

Can I use other types of honey?

Yes, you can use any type of honey, but raw honey adds a richer and more complex flavor.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

You can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar if you don’t have rice vinegar.

Is it necessary to flour the chicken?

Flouring the chicken helps achieve a golden-brown crust and ensures the sauce clings to the chicken.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, just make sure to adjust the pan size accordingly and cook the chicken in batches if needed.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe is an easy and flavorful meal that will quickly become a family favorite. With its sweet and savory glaze, perfectly seared chicken, and minimal ingredients, it's the ideal dish for a busy weeknight or a special dinner. Enjoy this simple yet impressive meal with your favorite sides, and savor the delightful combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce.