If you’re looking for a quick and easy chicken dinner, this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe is perfect for you! In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful chicken coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze. Made with simple ingredients like honey, garlic, soy sauce, and butter, this dish is both sweet and savory. Whether you pan-sear it for a crispy texture or bake it for a tender bite, this recipe guarantees restaurant-quality flavor at home. Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, one-pan meal in no time!
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Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe
Quick and Easy – Ready in Just 25 Minutes
When you’re short on time but still want a homemade meal, this honey garlic chicken breast recipe is the perfect solution. It takes just 5–10 minutes of prep and about 15 minutes of cooking. No complicated steps, no long marinating time—just season, cook, glaze, and serve. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you can whip up this quick chicken dinner with ease.
Juicy and Flavorful with a Sticky Honey Garlic Glaze
The secret to tender, juicy chicken breast is cooking it at the right temperature and coating it in a rich, sticky honey garlic sauce. The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and butter creates a sweet and savory glaze that locks in moisture and adds a deep flavor. Whether you pan-sear for a crispy exterior or bake for even cooking, this honey garlic chicken stays tender and full of flavor.
Perfect for a Weeknight Dinner or Meal Prep
This recipe is quick, mess-free, and versatile, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. You can make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better as they sit, making this meal-prep friendly. Pair it with rice, quinoa, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Uses Simple Pantry Ingredients Like Soy Sauce, Honey, and Garlic
No need for special ingredients—this honey garlic chicken recipe comes together with items you probably already have in your kitchen. Soy sauce adds a savory depth, honey brings natural sweetness, and garlic enhances the overall richness. Butter or olive oil helps create a silky, restaurant-style glaze. These basic pantry staples transform plain chicken breast into a mouthwatering, flavorful dish in minutes.
Ingredients You Need for This Juicy Chicken Breast Recipe
Chicken Breast – Boneless, Skinless, and Tender
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and absorb flavors well, making them perfect for pan-searing or baking. To ensure tenderness, consider pounding the chicken to an even thickness. This helps it cook evenly and prevents dryness.
Honey Garlic Sauce – Made with Honey, Garlic, Soy Sauce, and Butter
The honey garlic sauce is what makes this recipe irresistible! A mix of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, rich butter, and fresh garlic creates a sticky, flavorful glaze. The honey caramelizes as it cooks, giving the chicken a glossy coating, while the garlic adds depth and aroma. This simple yet delicious sauce takes your chicken breast to the next level.
Seasonings – Black Pepper, Salt, and Optional Chili Flakes
A balance of salt and black pepper enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. If you like a bit of heat, add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. The seasoning is simple but essential for bringing out the best in the dish.
Cooking Essentials – Olive Oil for Pan-Searing, Skillet, and Baking Sheet
For pan-searing, use olive oil or butter to get a golden, crispy crust on the chicken. A heavy skillet, like cast iron, works best for even cooking. If baking, use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. These basic kitchen tools help make the cooking process smooth and hassle-free.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on both sides to ensure a crispy, golden exterior when cooked. The olive oil also helps the chicken stay moist and tender. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for the best results in your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe.
Cook the Chicken
Next, cook the chicken. For pan-searing, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little more olive oil. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown and juicy. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will ensure your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is cooked through while remaining tender and moist.
Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to make the delicious honey garlic sauce. In a small pan, combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, and butter. Simmer over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and becomes a sticky glaze. The honey will caramelize slightly, while the garlic infuses the sauce with rich flavor. This glaze is the secret to making your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast irresistibly sweet and savory.
Coat and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, coat it in the sticky honey garlic sauce. Simply toss the chicken in the pan with the glaze, ensuring it’s fully covered. For an added crunch and extra flavor, garnish with sesame seeds or fresh herbs like parsley. Serve your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast alongside your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a salad, and enjoy this sweet, savory, and juicy dish.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
For Extra Juiciness
After cooking your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast, it’s crucial to let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays moist and tender. Cutting into it right away can cause the juices to escape, leaving the chicken dry. Resting the chicken helps lock in all the flavors and moisture, making each bite juicy and flavorful.
Crispy or Tender?
When making Honey Garlic Chicken Breast, you have the option to choose your preferred texture. If you love a crispy, golden crust, pan-searing is your best option. It gives the chicken a satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Alternatively, if you prefer a more tender and juicy chicken, baking is the way to go. Both methods work perfectly for this recipe, so you can decide based on your preference for texture.
Glaze Perfection
To achieve the perfect honey garlic glaze, you need to simmer the sauce slowly. As it cooks, the honey caramelizes and thickens, creating a sticky, glossy coating for the chicken. Don’t rush the process—allow the sauce to reduce and thicken to the perfect consistency. This is what transforms a simple chicken breast into the delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Breast you crave. The sauce should be rich, sweet, and savory, with just the right amount of stickiness to coat each bite.
Serving Ideas
Once your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is ready, consider pairing it with sides that complement the flavors. Fluffy rice (white, brown, or jasmine) absorbs the sauce beautifully, while roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers add a healthy and flavorful crunch. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad with leafy greens and a light vinaigrette. The sweet and savory flavors of the chicken will pair well with a variety of sides, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.
FAQs About Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe
Is honey a good addition to chicken?
Yes, honey works wonderfully with chicken. It adds a natural sweetness that balances savory flavors and creates a delicious glaze when combined with ingredients like garlic and soy sauce, perfect for a Honey Garlic Chicken Breast.
How many calories are in a serving of honey garlic chicken breast?
The calorie count can vary depending on the portion size and ingredients, but generally, a serving of Honey Garlic Chicken Breast (about 4 oz) contains around 200–300 calories. The calorie content may change depending on how much honey or oil you use.
Is it safe to eat chicken with honey?
Absolutely! The combination of chicken and honey is common in many savory dishes, especially in glazes. Honey adds a sweet touch that complements the savory, umami-rich chicken, making it flavorful and juicy.
Is it okay to combine honey with chicken in recipes?
Yes, it’s perfectly fine to combine honey with chicken in recipes. It adds a sweet flavor that pairs well with savory ingredients, creating a delicious glaze when cooked.
What are the best seasonings for chicken breast?
For Honey Garlic Chicken Breast, season your chicken with salt, black pepper, and a bit of olive oil to enhance the flavor. If you want extra flavor, add chili flakes or garlic powder to give it a bit of heat and extra garlic aroma.
Can You Put Honey on Chicken While Cooking?
Yes, you can add honey to chicken while cooking, but it’s important to add it towards the end of the cooking process. If you add honey too early, it may burn due to the sugar content. Adding it in the final minutes of cooking ensures the chicken gets a sticky glaze without burning.
Should you add honey to chicken during the cooking process?
It’s best to add honey towards the end of the cooking process. Adding it too early can cause it to burn due to its sugar content. Adding it in the last few minutes ensures a sticky, golden glaze without burning.
Does honey help make chicken more tender?
Yes, honey helps make chicken more tender by locking in moisture and aiding in caramelization. It also breaks down some of the fibers in the meat, which results in a more tender and juicy texture.
What are the best ways to enhance the flavor of chicken?
To enhance the flavor of chicken, season it with salt, pepper, and garlic. Marinating it in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and herbs adds depth. Pan-searing or grilling helps develop a rich, caramelized crust, while a finishing glaze or sauce like honey garlic brings extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a juicy, tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory sauce. Try making it tonight and enjoy a delicious meal in under 25 minutes! Don’t forget to share your results or leave a comment below. Happy cooking!
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Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add honey and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Coat the Chicken:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and plate it. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over the chicken and garnish with freshly smashed black pepper. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 25g