If you love a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and downright comforting, then you’re in for a treat with this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of juicy chicken smothered in a luscious honey-garlic sauce that hits all the right notes of sweet, tangy, and savory. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or inviting friends over, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make but tastes like you spent hours fussing over it. Trust me, once you try this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe, it might just become your new go-to!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the best part about this recipe because each one plays a crucial role in crafting that rich and balanced flavor we all crave. From tender chicken breasts to the magic trio of honey, garlic, and soy sauce, these ingredients come together to create a harmony of taste, texture, and even a touch of that irresistible golden color.
- 500g / 1 lb chicken breast (boneless and skinless, 2 pieces): Choose fresh chicken breasts for juicy, tender meat that cooks quickly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1/4 cup flour: Helps create a light coating that crisps up perfectly when cooked.
- 3 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter (or 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil): Adds richness and carries the garlic flavor beautifully.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with bold, aromatic notes.
- 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar): Adds a bright tang that balances the sweetness of the honey.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (light or all purpose): Provides umami depth and a salty punch.
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup): The star ingredient that gives this recipe its delightful sweet glaze.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to make four thin steaks instead of two thick pieces. This ensures even cooking and more surface area for that delicious sauce. Don’t forget to season each side generously with salt and pepper to build the best foundation of flavor.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Next, pour the flour into a shallow dish for easy coating. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour and gently shake off the excess. This light flour layer will give your chicken a beautiful, golden crust once it hits the pan.
Step 3: Melt Butter and Heat Pan
In a large skillet set over high heat, melt most of the butter but save about a teaspoon for later. Using butter ensures a rich base that will beautifully carry the garlic and sauce flavors, plus it helps the chicken brown evenly without sticking.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Place your floured chicken steaks in the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until you see a gorgeous golden color. Flip and cook the other side for just 1 minute since the chicken is now almost done. This quick sear locks in juices for tenderness.
Step 5: Lower the Heat
Reduce the heat slightly to medium-high to prepare for the garlic and sauce. This helps avoid burning and allows the sauce to simmer and thicken nicely later on.
Step 6: Add Garlic and Butter
Create a little space in the pan and toss in the minced garlic along with the reserved dab of butter. Stir quickly as the butter melts to release the intoxicating aroma that garlic always brings to the table.
Step 7: Mix the Sauce
Pour in apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and honey directly into the skillet. Stir or gently shake the pan to combine these ingredients into a luscious glaze. Then, let the sauce come to a simmer and cook for about a minute until it thickens slightly, coating the chicken beautifully.
Step 8: Coat the Chicken in Sauce
Give the chicken a turn in the pan to make sure every bite is soaked in that sticky, flavorful sauce. If the glaze becomes too thick, just add a splash of water to loosen it up and keep it spoon-friendly.
Step 9: Plate and Drizzle
Remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking. Place the chicken pieces on plates and generously drizzle the remaining sauce over the top for that perfect glossy finish. Now it’s ready to dig into!
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. A small wedge of lemon on the side can also brighten each bite and elevate the presentation.
Side Dishes
This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or buttery mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of the honey garlic sauce. Roasted veggies or a crisp green salad provide balance and texture, making it a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this chicken sliced over a bed of cauliflower rice or stuff it into a warm pita with fresh cucumber and yogurt for a casual handheld meal. You can also plate it on a wooden board alongside some crusty bread for an irresistible sharing platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Breast in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, but it will loosen back up once reheated gently.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Separate chicken pieces with parchment paper so they don’t stick together, making portioning easy when you’re ready to eat.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep the chicken tender and the sauce glossy. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage. Avoid microwaving if you want the best texture, but it works in a pinch!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you want juicier meat with a bit more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs are typically thicker and fattier.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
Yes, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter, soy-free alternative. Both will still provide that essential umami punch.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Sure thing! Swap out the butter for olive oil or any neutral vegetable oil. The dish will still be rich and tasty without the dairy.
How do I avoid the sauce becoming too thick or too thin?
Keep an eye on the simmering time and consistency; you want a sauce that coats the chicken but isn’t gluey. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water. If it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer until it reduces to your liking.
Can this dish be cooked in advance for meal prep?
Definitely! This recipe holds up well when refrigerated and reheated gently. It’s perfect for packing lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about a simple, well-executed dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe delivers exactly that. Easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and utterly versatile, it’s a recipe worth keeping close in your culinary rotation. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a favorite among family and friends!
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Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 4 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe delivers a deliciously sweet and savory dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. Tender chicken breasts are pan-fried to golden perfection, coated in a rich honey garlic sauce made with garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, and honey, making for a perfect weeknight meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 500g / 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless (2 pieces)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup flour
Sauce and Cooking
- 3 1/2 tbsp (50g) unsalted butter (or 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white or other clear vinegar)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce, light or all purpose
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thin steaks. Season each side of the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Coat with Flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, coating thoroughly, then shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping.
- Melt Butter: Heat most of the unsalted butter (reserve about 1 teaspoon) in a large skillet over high heat until melted and hot, preparing the pan for cooking the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Place the floured chicken pieces into the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for 1 minute to get a nice sear.
- Reduce Heat: Lower the skillet’s heat slightly to medium-high to prevent burning while finishing the sauce.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Create some space in the skillet, add the minced garlic, and top it with the reserved teaspoon of butter. Stir briefly as the butter melts and the garlic releases its aroma without burning.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Stir or gently shake the pan to combine all the ingredients well. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Simmer Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 1 minute or until it slightly thickens, coating the chicken nicely.
- Coat Chicken in Sauce: Turn the chicken pieces in the skillet to ensure they are fully coated with the honey garlic sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water and stir to reach desired consistency.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat immediately to prevent overcooking. Plate the chicken and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top for extra flavor.
Notes
- Flour helps create a crispy exterior and thickens the sauce slightly.
- You can substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness profile.
- Using apple cider vinegar adds a gentle tang, but white vinegar works well too.
- Reserved butter added with garlic helps infuse the sauce with rich flavor.
- Adjust sauce thickness by adding water if it becomes too thick during simmering.
