Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Garlic Chicken is an irresistible combination of flavors. The chicken is coated in a light flour crust that crisps up beautifully, while the sauce brings together a sweet and savory profile that is absolutely mouthwatering. The garlic adds depth, and the honey provides a subtle sweetness, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick to make and requires only a few simple ingredients!

Ingredients

Base

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided

Sauce

• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
• 1/3 cup honey

Seasonings & Garnish

• Kosher salt to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• Green onions, thinly sliced

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets or leave them whole. Season both sides of the chicken with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Dredge the chicken in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan in a single layer, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the soy sauce, seasoned rice vinegar, and honey, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, turning it to coat with the sauce. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and stir until the butter melts into the sauce, making it silky and glossy.
6. Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, pouring the sauce over the top. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the sauce for added texture and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sriracha sauce to the sauce for a spicy variation.
• Crispier Chicken: For an extra crispy texture, dip the chicken in egg before dredging it in flour and frying it.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They will be even more tender and juicy due to their higher fat content.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce further, you can simmer it a little longer until it reduces to your desired consistency. You could also mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce to thicken it more quickly.

Can I use a different kind of vinegar?

If you don’t have seasoned rice vinegar, you can substitute it with regular rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor may be slightly different.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also cut into the chicken to ensure it is no longer pink inside.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The chicken can be cooked ahead of time, but the sauce is best made just before serving to ensure it stays flavorful and fresh.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While you can freeze the chicken, the sauce may lose some of its smooth texture upon reheating. For best results, store the chicken and sauce separately before freezing.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour, and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can work, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I use pre-sliced chicken?

Yes, pre-sliced chicken breast works well in this recipe. Just ensure that the slices are thin to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet honey, and fragrant garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken. With just a few ingredients, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!

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