Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe

If you’re craving something irresistibly sweet, savory, and garlicky for dinner tonight, this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is about to become your new weeknight hero! The glaze is sticky and luscious, coating the golden-seared chicken in layers of flavor that feel restaurant-worthy—but come together in minutes at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe proves just how much magic you can make with a few well-chosen ingredients! Each element adds its own special touch—that golden crust from flour, the sweet depth of honey, the boldness of garlic—all coming together for a craveable Honey Garlic Chicken Breast.

• Chicken Breasts (500g / 1 lb, boneless and skinless): Slicing them into thinner cutlets means more surface area for that sticky sauce, plus faster, juicier cooking.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning both before and after, guaranteeing great flavor throughout.
• Flour (1/4 cup): A light dusting helps create a beautiful crust and thickens the sauce for extra lusciousness. For gluten-free, use cornstarch!
• Unsalted Butter (3½ tbsp): Adds richness and helps both the chicken and garlic get gorgeously golden (substitute olive oil for a lighter option).
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The star of this recipe—fresh garlic delivers unbeatable aroma and flavor. Don’t use pre-minced for best results!
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1½ tbsp): Lends tang that balances the sweetness and makes the sauce sing. White vinegar or rice vinegar work too.
• Soy Sauce (1 tbsp, light or all-purpose): Adds umami depth—skip dark soy, which will overpower the other flavors.
• Honey (1/3 cup): The backbone of that shiny, appetizing glaze—feel free to use maple syrup for a twist.

Variations

One of the best things about Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is how forgiving and adaptable it is! Try these easy twists to suit whatever you have on hand—or mix it up for new flavors each time.

• Maple Garlic Chicken: Swap the honey for pure maple syrup for a slightly earthier, woodsy glaze—it’s especially lovely in autumn.
• Tofu or Shrimp Version: Use firm tofu or big, juicy shrimp instead of chicken (instructions below in notes) for a satisfying meatless or seafood spin.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a little sriracha to the sauce if you love a sweet-heat balance.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the honey or mix in more vinegar if you prefer a sauce that’s less sweet and more tangy.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by slicing each chicken breast in half horizontally, so you have four evenly thick steaks. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper—don’t skimp here; this early seasoning means flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Dust and Sear

Put the flour in a shallow plate and lightly coat each chicken piece, shaking off extra flour. Melt most of the butter in a big skillet over high heat (save a teaspoon for the sauce). Sear your chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until golden, then flip and cook another minute.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Finish Sautéing

Turn the heat down just a touch. Make a little space in the pan, add your minced garlic, and the reserved butter. Stir for about 30 seconds as the butter melts—just enough to become fragrant—but don’t burn it!

Step 4: Build the Honey Garlic Sauce

Pour in the vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Swirl everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce bubble away for about a minute—it’ll thicken and become dark, glossy, and deeply aromatic.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Turn the chicken pieces a few times to coat them thoroughly in sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water and swirl again. Take the pan off the heat right away—this keeps the chicken juicy and the glaze silky. Plate up your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast and drizzle over any extra sauce.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or sliced green onions adds a pop of color and freshness to your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast, while a scattering of sesame seeds brings a little extra crunch and visual flair. Lemon wedges on the side brighten each bite even further.

Side Dishes

This chicken is seriously versatile—nestle it atop fluffy steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a hearty bed of quinoa to soak up every last bit of the sauce. For veggies, quickly stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or colorful bell peppers are match made in heaven!

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast and layering it in lettuce wraps with julienned carrots for a fun, hand-held dinner, or serve atop a big salad with crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes for a lighter spin. Make it party-ready by skewering bite-sized pieces for a sticky-fingered appetizer platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Breast keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to scoop up all that extra sauce when storing—it’s pure gold for leftovers!

Freezing

To freeze, let the chicken and sauce cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture when reheating.

Reheating

Gently rewarm your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave works in a pinch, just be careful not to overcook and dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast—it’s such a feel-good meal that never fails to delight with its sweet, garlicky glaze and juicy texture. Don’t be surprised if it lands on your regular dinner rotation (and keeps the requests coming)! Enjoy every sticky, saucy bite.

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