Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts are a deliciously sweet, savory, and garlicky dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and coated in a rich, flavorful sauce made from honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of butter.
The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish incredibly satisfying, and it pairs well with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pan meal is ideal for busy weeknights while still feeling like a restaurant-quality dish.
Simple, flavorful, and family-friendly, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Description
Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts are a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making them a delicious and easy dinner option.
Juicy chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and coated in a rich, sticky sauce made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and butter.
The sauce caramelizes beautifully, creating a glossy, flavorful coating. This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Quick to prepare in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.
Whether pan-seared or baked, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
-
Sear the chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
-
Make the sauce:
In the same pan, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Coat the chicken:
Return the chicken to the pan, coating it in the sauce. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).
-
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or sesame seeds. Serve hot with rice, vegetables, or salad.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 400kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Cholesterol 90mg30%
- Sodium 700mg30%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 18g
- Protein 40g80%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts: Tips & Serving Tricks
Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts are a flavorful and easy dish that combines sweet and savory elements with tender, juicy chicken.
To make sure your dish turns out perfectly every time, here are some key tips and serving tricks.
Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
1. Use Evenly Sized Chicken Breasts
- To ensure even cooking, use chicken breasts of similar thickness.
- If your chicken breasts are too thick, pound them gently with a meat mallet or slice them in half lengthwise for quicker and more even cooking.
2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor
- For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a bit of vinegar for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).
- If short on time, even a quick 10-minute soak before cooking can enhance the taste.
3. Sear for a Crispy Exterior
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat before adding the chicken.
- Searing locks in juices and adds a delicious caramelized crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
4. Make a Thick, Sticky Sauce
- Simmer the honey garlic sauce until it slightly thickens. If you need extra thickness, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 teaspoons water and stir it in.
- A touch of butter added at the end will create a glossy, restaurant-style sauce.
5. Avoid Overcooking
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- If cooking in a pan, cover it for the last few minutes to keep the chicken juicy.
- If baking, tent the chicken with foil halfway through to prevent drying out.
6. Rest the Chicken Before Serving
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
7. Enhance the Flavor with Garnishes
- Sprinkle sesame seeds, fresh parsley, or green onions on top for added texture and flavor.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can balance the sweetness.
Serving Tricks for the Best Experience
1. Pair with the Right Sides
- Rice: Jasmine rice, brown rice, or fried rice absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Noodles: Serve over stir-fried noodles or soba for an Asian-inspired meal.
- Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or bok choy complement the dish’s flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting meal, serve with creamy mashed potatoes.
2. Meal Prep & Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze cooked chicken (without garnishes) for up to 3 months.
3. Make It a Wrap or Bowl
- Slice the chicken and use it in a wrap with lettuce, cucumber, and a drizzle of extra sauce.
- Serve in a grain bowl with quinoa, avocado, and roasted veggies for a healthy meal.
By following these tips and tricks, your Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts will turn out tender, flavorful, and perfect for any meal!
Pin this recipe to share with your friends and followers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead of Boneless Breasts?
Yes! Bone-in chicken breasts or even thighs work well for this recipe. However, they require a longer cooking time.
If using bone-in chicken, increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For extra flavor, sear the chicken first, then bake or simmer in the sauce until fully cooked.
How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker honey garlic sauce, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir it into the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, reduce the sauce over low heat for a thicker, caramelized texture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Honey Garlic Chicken can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much.
This dish also freezes well—store in an airtight container for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
