Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter, divided; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts Recipe

This dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The honey garlic sauce is sweet, tangy, and sticky, making it a crowd‑pleaser for all ages. It uses basic pantry ingredients yet transforms ordinary chicken breasts into something rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile and pairs well with rice, veggies, or noodles.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• salt and pepper
• all‑purpose flour
• olive oil
• low‑sodium soy sauce
• honey
• rice vinegar
• garlic cloves, minced
• cornstarch (for thickening)
• water (to make a slurry)
• optional garnishes (green onion, sesame seeds)

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a shallow dish, place the flour and dredge the chicken until it’s evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until browned.
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic to make the sauce.
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken and let it sizzle for a minute.
Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the chicken simmer for about 10 minutes, until nearly cooked through.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Uncover the pan and stir the slurry into the sauce until it thickens and becomes glossy.
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F, then remove from heat.
Serve topped with extra sauce and optional green onions or sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

• Servings: about 4 people
• Prep time: ~10 minutes
• Cook time: ~25 minutes
• Total time: ~35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Honey Garlic: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Citrus Twist: Stir in a splash of orange juice or lemon juice for brightness.
• Low‑Sodium: Use low‑sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos to reduce salt.
• Gluten‑Free: Substitute cornstarch for flour and use a gluten‑free flour blend for dredging.
• Herb‑Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary while simmering for extra aroma.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled chicken in a freezer‑safe container for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium‑low heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

What temperature should I cook the chicken to?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C).

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicy; adjust cooking time since thighs can take a bit longer.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

This recipe doesn’t require marinating, but you can marinate briefly in part of the sauce for extra flavor.

What should I serve with honey garlic chicken?

Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge, then cook chicken when ready.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Mix a bit of cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then stir it into the simmering sauce until thick.

Is this recipe kid‑friendly?

Yes, it’s generally mild and sweet, so it’s great for kids. Adjust spice if needed.

Can I bake this instead of pan‑frying?

Yes, you can bake the chicken first and then add the sauce during the last few minutes.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Avoid overcooking and let it rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, stir‑fry broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas and toss with the chicken and sauce.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts are a delicious and easy meal that brings bold flavor to your dinner table with simple ingredients and minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers juicy chicken with a sticky, satisfying sauce that’s sure to become a favorite.

Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts