Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter, divided; 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; ¼ cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar; ⅓ cup honey; Kosher salt to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper to taste; Green onions, thinly sliced

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that combines sweet and savory flavors, this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe is just what you need. With tender chicken breasts, a rich honey garlic sauce, and a simple cooking method, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or any time you crave something tasty yet easy to prepare. The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of vinegar creates a mouthwatering glaze that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with tender chicken coated in a flavorful sauce that’s both rich and tangy. The simplicity of this dish makes it a weeknight go-to, but it’s impressive enough to serve at a dinner party or special occasion. The garlic-infused sauce is quick to make and adds a delicious depth of flavor to the chicken. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality dish ready in 30 minutes!

Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts

Ingredients

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

Base:

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, divided

Sauce:

6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
1/3 cup honey

Seasonings & Garnish:

Kosher salt to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Green onions, thinly sliced

Directions

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large frying pan over medium to medium-high heat.
Slice chicken breasts lengthwise into four thinner pieces. Season with salt and pepper, then coat each piece evenly with flour.
Cook the floured chicken in the pan for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds, or until fragrant.
Add soy sauce and vinegar to the pan, scraping the pan to release any browned bits. Stir in honey, and add pepper and salt to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes, until it thickens.
Return the chicken to the pan and simmer in the sauce for 1 minute until warmed through.
Serve the chicken garnished with thinly sliced green onions.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Different Protein: Use boneless skinless chicken thighs or even turkey breasts instead of chicken breasts for a different protein.
Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They’ll be a bit juicier and more flavorful, but the cooking method and sauce remain the same.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, cornstarch, or a gluten-free breadcrumbs coating for the chicken.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! You can add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to the pan when you cook the garlic, letting them absorb the flavor of the sauce.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to serve this dish fresh to keep the chicken tender. If making ahead, store the chicken and sauce separately and reheat before serving.

5. How do I prevent the chicken from being dry?

To keep the chicken moist, don’t overcook it. Cooking it for 4-5 minutes per side will ensure it stays juicy. You can also slice the chicken into thinner pieces to help it cook evenly and quickly.

6. Can I use regular vinegar instead of rice vinegar?

Rice vinegar gives a mild tangy flavor to the sauce, which pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. It’s best to stick with rice vinegar, but you can also substitute with lemon juice if needed.

7. Can I make this recipe without flour?

If you prefer, you can skip the flour coating. The flour helps create a light, crispy exterior, but you can also just cook the chicken directly in the pan without it for a lighter version.

8. Can I use agave or maple syrup instead of honey?

While honey gives the best flavor and consistency, you can substitute with agave or maple syrup for a different taste. Honey, however, will provide the ideal sweetness and texture.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled if you’re serving more people. Just make sure to use a large enough pan or cook the chicken in batches so it doesn’t overcrowd the pan.

10. Can I serve this with something other than green onions?

Yes, you can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts are an incredibly flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in one quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or serving it to guests, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy tender chicken bathed in a rich garlic and honey sauce, making it the perfect go-to recipe for any occasion!