When it comes to dinner ideas that are both simple and utterly delicious, honey garlic chicken breasts hit the mark every single time. I remember the first time I tried this recipe—it was a weeknight and I was craving something savory yet sweet. With just a few ingredients, I whipped up a meal that not only satisfied my taste buds but also left the kitchen smelling divine. Perfectly cooked chicken breasts glazed in a sticky honey garlic sauce not only make your mouth water but also feel like a cozy hug after a long day.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
If you’re searching for a recipe that checks all the boxes—quick, easy, and endlessly flavorful—this is it! Honey garlic chicken breasts are a fantastic option for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence but you still want something that feels special. The delicate balance of honey’s sweetness and garlic’s robust flavor creates a dish that both kids and adults will love. Plus, you likely have most of the ingredients on hand, which means less grocery shopping and more time enjoying your meal.
“This honey garlic chicken is my new go-to. It’s so easy to make and tastes incredible!” – Satisfied Home Cook
Step-by-Step Overview
Preparing honey garlic chicken breasts is a breeze, and you’ll love how quickly it all comes together. First, you’ll want to prep your chicken by slicing it for even cooking. Next, you’ll dust it in flour for that lovely golden crust. Then, you’ll whip up a sauce that really brings the dish to life. It’s just three straightforward steps: sauté the chicken, prepare the garlicky sauce, and bring it all together for a mouthwatering meal!
What You’ll Need
To make these tender and flavorful honey garlic chicken breasts, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
- 1/3 cup honey
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Green onions, thinly sliced
Feel free to swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free version or the seasoned rice vinegar for another vinegar type you have on hand!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large frying pan over medium to medium-high heat.
- Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise into four thinner pieces. Season them with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with flour.
- Cook the floured chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the soy sauce and rice vinegar, scraping up any bits from the pan. Stir in the honey along with some salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens.
- Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer in the sauce for about 1 minute until warmed through.
- Serve the chicken garnished with thinly sliced green onions.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
For a beautiful presentation, serve your honey garlic chicken atop a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all that luscious sauce. Steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans make excellent sides, providing both color and crunch to your plate. For a little extra flair, a sprinkle of sesame seeds can elevate the dish further, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate!
How to Store & Freeze
Leftover honey garlic chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to retain freshness. When reheating, use the stovetop or microwave—just be sure to heat it evenly to maintain its delectable flavors. If you want to freeze leftovers, portion them out and use freezer-safe containers, where they can last up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to ensure food safety.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these pro tips:
- Slice the chicken thinly and evenly for quick cooking and a nice crust.
- Don’t rush the garlic—burnt garlic can ruin the dish. Keep an eye on it as it cooks!
- If you like a bit more kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Creative Twists
Feel free to make this recipe your own by incorporating different flavors. Swap out honey for maple syrup for a unique sweetness, or use lemon juice in place of rice vinegar to add a citrusy brightness. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during the cooking process can introduce some freshness and make it a full meal.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
Total prep and cooking time should be around 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be juicier and more flavorful, so they’ll work well in this recipe.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, so the sauce doesn’t burn and the chicken warms evenly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce separately in advance, then combine and cook when you’re ready to eat.
This honey garlic chicken recipe is not only simple, but it’s also bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Your family will appreciate the deliciousness, and you’ll enjoy how easy it is to prepare. Dive in and let those aromatic flavors warm your kitchen!
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Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free (with soy sauce substitute)
Description
A quick and easy recipe for tender chicken breasts glazed in a flavorful honey garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
- 1/3 cup honey
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large frying pan over medium to medium-high heat.
- Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise into four thinner pieces. Season them with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with flour.
- Cook the floured chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the soy sauce and rice vinegar, scraping up any bits from the pan. Stir in the honey along with some salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens.
- Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer in the sauce for about 1 minute until warmed through.
- Serve the chicken garnished with thinly sliced green onions.
Notes
Slice the chicken thinly for quick cooking and a nice crust. Keep an eye on the garlic to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian