Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar); 1 tablespoon water; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening); Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

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Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is a sweet and savory dish that combines the rich flavors of honey and garlic with tender, juicy chicken. The glaze created from honey, garlic, and soy sauce coats the chicken, adding depth and a mouthwatering finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that works well for a weeknight meal or a dinner party, and it pairs beautifully with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is the perfect balance of sweetness and savory richness. The garlic adds a depth of flavor, while the honey creates a delicate sweetness that caramelizes beautifully as the chicken cooks. This recipe is simple to make, yet impressive in taste, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s also versatile and can be paired with nearly any side dish, from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, this dish is a reliable go-to.

Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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

Directions

Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice). Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. If you like a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes at this point.
Coat the Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Let the chicken cook in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring it is well coated and the sauce has thickened.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and takes approximately 25-30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a perfect quick and flavorful meal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something savory with a touch of sweetness.

Variations

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for bone-in or boneless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result.
Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the skillet when making the sauce for a one-pan meal.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though the texture may be less crispy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, offering a juicier and more flavorful result compared to chicken breasts.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

While this recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, you can bake the chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until fully cooked. Then, prepare the sauce on the stove and drizzle it over the chicken once baked.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, let it simmer for an extra 2-3 minutes, or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Can I freeze Honey Garlic Chicken Breast?

Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove before serving.

Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative to soy sauce.

How do I prevent the chicken from being dry?

To prevent dry chicken, make sure not to overcook it. Chicken breasts should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for optimal juiciness.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy chili sauce to kick up the heat level.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cook the chicken and pour the sauce over it.

What’s the best way to serve Honey Garlic Chicken?

Honey Garlic Chicken is delicious served over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a light salad.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup, but the flavor will differ slightly. Honey provides a natural sweetness and richness that is hard to replicate.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is an easy-to-make dish that combines the savory goodness of garlic and soy sauce with the sweetness of honey, creating a mouthwatering glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress guests, this recipe is a winner. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Jane