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This honey garlic chicken breast transforms ordinary chicken into a delicious weeknight meal that's ready in just 15 minutes. The sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, with garlic adding depth and warmth to every bite.
I first made this honey garlic chicken when I had unexpected dinner guests and needed something impressive fast. The way they raved about it and wiped their plates clean with bread convinced me to keep this recipe in my regular rotation.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Provides a lean protein base that absorbs flavors beautifully choose thicker cuts if possible for juicier results
- Flour: Creates that perfect golden crust while helping to thicken the sauce
- Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that golden exterior use high quality unsalted for best flavor
- Fresh garlic cloves: Deliver that aromatic punch dried simply cannot match
- Apple cider vinegar: Balances the sweetness with necessary acidity
- Soy sauce: Brings umami depth and saltiness that elevates the entire dish
- Honey: Provides natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the pan
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken:
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four even pieces for faster more even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to build flavor from the beginning. This basic step ensures the chicken itself tastes good not just the sauce.
- Create the crust:
- Dredge each chicken piece thoroughly in flour making sure to coat all surfaces then shake off any excess. The thin flour coating will brown beautifully and help thicken our sauce later. Be careful not to apply too thick a coating which could become gummy.
- Sear to golden perfection:
- Melt most of the butter in a hot skillet reserving just a small amount for later. Place chicken pieces without crowding and let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a rich golden crust. Flip and cook just one minute on the second side. The chicken will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Create flavor base:
- Reduce heat slightly and make space in the pan for the garlic. Add the reserved butter and garlic together letting the butter melt and the garlic become fragrant but not brown. This quick step infuses the butter with garlic flavor that will distribute throughout the sauce.
- Build the signature sauce:
- Pour in the vinegar soy sauce and honey stirring quickly to combine as the mixture comes to a simmer. Let it bubble gently for about a minute watching as it thickens slightly and becomes glossy. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still flow easily.
- Finish with perfection:
- Turn the chicken pieces to coat them thoroughly in the sauce allowing them to finish cooking in the bubbling liquid. If the sauce reduces too quickly simply add a tablespoon of water to maintain the perfect consistency. Remove from heat as soon as chicken is cooked through to prevent overcooking.
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The honey is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I once tried substituting brown sugar and while it was good it lacked that distinct floral quality that good honey brings. My family immediately noticed the difference and requested I stick with honey in future versions.
Make Ahead and Storage
This chicken reheats beautifully making it perfect for meal planning. Store cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop further overnight making leftovers sometimes even better than the first serving. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Easy Substitutions
This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. Chicken thighs make an excellent substitution for breasts offering more moisture and flavor though they require slightly longer cooking time. For a gluten free version replace the regular flour with cornstarch or rice flour which creates an equally lovely crust. Maple syrup can stand in for honey providing a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
The versatility of this honey garlic chicken makes it a perfect centerpiece for numerous meal combinations. Serve over steamed jasmine rice which soaks up the sauce beautifully or with crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal add a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or a fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
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This honey garlic chicken recipe is a foolproof way to create a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking. Cook the chicken on high heat initially to seal in the juices, and then reduce the heat slightly to finish cooking evenly. Use a thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- → Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless and skinless thighs work well as a substitute. They are naturally juicier and cook similarly, though they may require slightly longer cooking time.
- → What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Breast?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad to balance the flavors.
- → Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before using.
- → What can I use as a substitute for honey?
If you don't have honey, maple syrup is an excellent alternative that provides a similar sweetness. You can also use brown sugar, but the flavor will be slightly different.