Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious weeknight favorite featuring tender, golden chicken coated in a glossy sauce made with honey, fresh garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of butter. The combination of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors makes every bite irresistible. This easy skillet recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup. Serve it over fluffy rice or vegetables for a satisfying family dinner.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Oven Temperature
N/A
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken breasts: Provide tender, lean protein. Substitute boneless chicken thighs.
- Honey: Creates the sweet, sticky glaze. Substitute maple syrup.
- Fresh garlic: Adds bold savory flavor. Substitute garlic powder.
- Soy sauce: Brings salty, umami-rich flavor. Substitute tamari or coconut aminos.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create a glossy sauce. Substitute olive oil.
- Apple cider vinegar: Balances the sweetness of the sauce. Substitute fresh lemon juice.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning so it browns nicely.
- Don't cook the garlic too long or it may become bitter.
- Simmer the sauce gently until it becomes glossy and slightly thick.
- Serve immediately while the honey garlic glaze is warm and sticky.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Step-by-Step
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. If the breasts are thick, gently pound them to an even thickness.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, then transfer to a plate.
- Cook the garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Add honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Glaze the chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally so it becomes beautifully coated.
- Finish and serve: Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F internally. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh parsley, then serve with the remaining honey garlic sauce.
Garnish & Serving
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh parsley.
- Add sliced green onions or red pepper flakes.
- Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.
Storage
Store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until hot, adding a small splash of water if the glaze becomes too thick. Keep the chicken covered while reheating to help retain moisture.
Make Ahead
Prepare the honey garlic sauce up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate it separately. Cook the chicken fresh, then warm the sauce and combine just before serving.
Variations
- Thighs: Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juicy, tender meat.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the honey garlic sauce.
- Crispy: Coat chicken pieces lightly with cornstarch before pan-frying.
Serving Pairings
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Stir-fried broccoli and vegetables
- Garlic noodles
Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick, sticky, sweet-and-savory dinner that's packed with garlicky flavor and perfect for busy weeknights.
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