Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe transforms a simple dinner into something extraordinary. Tender chicken breasts are pan-fried until golden, then glazed in a sweet-savory honey garlic sauce. The honey caramelizes, creating a sticky, rich glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ideal choice for busy weeknights, and the balance of sweetness and umami will make it a family favorite.

Ingredients

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

• 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 (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preparing the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally into even cutlets. Pat them dry with paper towels, then season with salt and pepper. Lightly dust with flour to create a golden crust when cooked.

2. Searing the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Making the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Add soy sauce, vinegar, and honey, stirring to combine. Simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

4. Finishing the Dish: Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to the chicken.

5. Serving: Garnish with freshly sliced green onions and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for extra juiciness. Adjust cooking times to 6-7 minutes per side.

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu slices or plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

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

How do I know when the chicken is done?

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

What should I serve with this honey garlic chicken?

Serve it with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, noodles, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

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?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to the sauce, allowing them to simmer and absorb the flavors.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. If you prefer heat, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze.

Can I use a different type of honey?

Yes, you can use any variety of honey. Raw honey will give the sauce a more complex flavor.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if necessary.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If the sauce doesn’t thicken enough, continue to simmer it on low heat for a few extra minutes, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe is a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly dinner. The sweet and savory glaze is irresistible, and the tender chicken ensures a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. With easy variations and a simple cooking process, it’s bound to become a go-to in your weeknight dinner rotation.