Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love making Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts because they’re the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic. The honey adds a rich, natural sweetness, while the garlic gives the dish that wonderful depth of flavor. The best part? The sauce. It’s rich, sticky, and so flavorful—it clings to the chicken, infusing each bite with the perfect combination of savory garlic and sweet honey. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this dish is always a hit. It’s simple, quick, and has a gourmet feel without requiring a lot of effort.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium is preferred)

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)

• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

• 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Add the Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and ginger (if using). Stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add it to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, turning them to coat in the sauce. Let the chicken simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to soak into the meat.

7. Serve: Serve the chicken breasts with the sauce spooned over the top, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes.

Variations

If I want to switch up the flavor, I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat. For a more savory twist, I’ve added a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a subtle tang. If I have time, I like to marinate the chicken in the honey garlic sauce for 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or gently reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, I add a splash of water or broth while reheating to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe! They’re slightly more tender and juicy, and they’ll absorb the honey garlic sauce beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the chicken fresh, then add the sauce once the chicken is cooked.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

To make sure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should read 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the chicken. If you don’t have a thermometer, make a small cut in the center, and ensure the juices run clear.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots to the skillet while the chicken is cooking. Just sauté them before adding the garlic, and they’ll soak up the delicious sauce!

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts are a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness. The sticky honey garlic sauce is the star of this recipe, and it pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken. Whether I’m making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish never fails to satisfy. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for serving with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad. Once you try it, I think it’ll become one of your go-to chicken recipes!

---

Print