Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe

If you’re looking for a weeknight winner that’s a total showstopper, this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast checks every box. Think juicy pan-seared chicken with a sticky, sweet-and-savory honey garlic glaze—on the table in just 12 minutes! Each bite is rich and satisfying, perfect for when you want big flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing complicated here—just a handful of everyday ingredients, each one with a starring role. Every element in this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe brings extra punch to the final dish, from that golden finish to the luscious, sticky sauce.

• Chicken Breast (500g / 1 lb, boneless and skinless): Cutting these into thin steaks helps them cook evenly and soak up every drop of sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: The simplest magic—seasoning the chicken right makes every bite pop.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup): Just a light coating gives you that irresistible golden crust and helps the glaze cling.
• Unsalted Butter (3 1/2 tbsp) or Olive Oil: Butter brings lush, rich flavor; olive oil is a great swap for a lighter touch.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Garlic is the backbone of the sauce—don’t skimp!
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 1/2 tbsp): This brightens the glaze and balances the sweetness; any clear vinegar works in a pinch.
• Soy Sauce (1 tbsp): Adds depth and just the right hit of savory, umami goodness.
• Honey (1/3 cup): The hero of the sauce, giving that classic sticky sweetness (maple syrup is a fine substitute for a twist).

Variations

The joy of Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is how easy it is to make your own. Mix things up based on what’s in your kitchen or to suit your family’s taste—this recipe is ready for your personal twist!

• Swap the Protein: Try this glaze on boneless thighs, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian spin.
• Add Some Heat: Stir in a dash of chili flakes or a squirt of sriracha for extra kick in your sauce.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or even cornstarch for dredging to keep things friendly for everyone.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in snap peas or thin-sliced bell peppers during the final minute for color and crunch.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Step 1: Slice and Season the Chicken

Lay your chicken breasts on a cutting board, then carefully cut each one in half horizontally to create four thinner “steaks.” Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper—don’t rush this step; it ensures every bite is seasoned and full of flavor.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

In a shallow dish, pour in your flour. Gently coat each chicken piece on both sides, tapping off any extra. This quick flour dusting creates that beautiful crust that helps the sticky honey garlic glaze cling later on.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Get your largest skillet nice and hot, then melt most of your butter (save a little for later). Place the chicken in the pan and cook until deeply golden, about 2–3 minutes per side (the thinner cut really speeds things up!). Set chicken aside—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 4: Build the Honey Garlic Sauce

Lower the heat just a smidge. Make a little space in the pan, then melt in that last bit of butter with the minced garlic. Stir just until fragrant—30 seconds, max. Pour in apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and the honey, then swirl everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

Return the chicken to the pan, turning it so every inch is coated in the glossy glaze. Let it simmer for about a minute, until everything’s thick and sticky. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of water and stir. Remove from heat, plate up, and pour over every last drop of sauce. That’s it—Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is ready to wow!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Garnishes

Shower your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onions right before serving—the color makes the glaze pop and adds a hint of freshness. For a hit of crunch, toasted sesame seeds are never out of place!

Side Dishes

This chicken shines on a bed of fluffy white rice, but honestly, it’s dreamy with buttery mashed potatoes, quinoa, or even simple stir-fried veggies. Bright, lightly dressed greens help balance the rich, sweet glaze—think crisp cucumber salad or a pile of steamed broccoli.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken into strips and tucking it into lettuce wraps with shredded carrots and cucumber for a crunchy, handheld dinner. For parties, pile it up on a platter with toothpicks or serve over skewers for irresistible honey garlic chicken bites. Leftovers? Layer them in a sandwich with tangy slaw for a next-day lunch that’ll disappear fast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Breast cool completely, then pop it into an airtight container. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days, ready for quick lunches or busy nights.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well—just wrap individual pieces tightly, or freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Keep for up to two months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is gently, either in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, so the chicken stays juicy and the sauce doesn’t scorch. Add a tiny splash of water if needed to loosen the glaze.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you love a no-fuss meal that feels as special as a weekend dinner but comes together quicker than takeout, you’re going to adore Honey Garlic Chicken Breast. I hope it finds a happy home in your dinner rotation—don’t be surprised if it disappears even faster than you made it. Enjoy every sticky, garlicky bite!

Print