Description
This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a savory honey garlic sauce. The chicken is lightly flour-coated and pan-seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a delicious blend of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Ideal for a simple weeknight dinner that feels special and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 500g / 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 pieces)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Sauce
- 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 vinegar)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut each chicken breast horizontally to create 4 thin chicken steaks in total. Season both sides of each steak with salt and pepper, ensuring even distribution for optimal flavor.
- Coat with flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish and fully coat each chicken steak by pressing into the flour, then shaking off any excess to avoid clumping during cooking.
- Melt butter in skillet: Heat a large skillet over high heat and melt most of the butter, reserving about 1 teaspoon for later use. The butter adds richness and helps achieve a golden crust on the chicken.
- Sear the chicken: Add the floured chicken pieces to the hot skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until golden brown. Then flip and cook the other side for 1 minute, allowing the chicken to partially cook through while developing flavor.
- Adjust heat: Reduce the heat slightly to medium-high. This prevents burning and allows the sauce ingredients to blend properly.
- Add garlic and remaining butter: Create a small space in the skillet and add the minced garlic along with the reserved teaspoon of butter. Stir briefly as the butter melts to infuse the garlic flavor into the dish.
- Add liquid ingredients: Pour in apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Stir or gently shake the pan to evenly combine these ingredients. Bring the sauce to a simmer to meld the flavors and slightly thicken the mixture.
- Simmer the chicken in sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for about 1 minute until it begins to thicken. Turn the chicken so that each piece is coated thoroughly in the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water and stir to loosen it.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat immediately to avoid overcooking. Plate the chicken pieces and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your honey garlic chicken breasts.
Notes
- You can substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.
- If desired, serve with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on chicken thickness; ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American