Easy and Quick Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful chicken breast recipe, look no further! This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is not only quick to prepare, but it also combines sweet and savory flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. The juicy chicken breast is pan-seared and smothered in a rich honey-garlic sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat.

This recipe uses just a few basic ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, making it a go-to meal when you’re short on time but want something delicious. Whether you are a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, you’ll find this recipe both easy and satisfying.

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

To make this quick and easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breast, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are lean, versatile, and perfect for a quick dinner.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
• 1/2 cup flour: This helps to lightly coat the chicken breasts and gives them a crispy golden exterior when cooked.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (or margarine): Butter adds richness and helps the chicken breasts to sear to perfection.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives this dish its bold flavor and aromatic appeal.
• 4 tbsp honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the sauce.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a depth of umami and saltiness to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 3 tbsp vinegar: Vinegar adds a tangy element to the sauce, brightening the sweet and savory combination.
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: For seasoning the sauce and adding a hint of spice.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create a flavor-packed dish in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

This recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. Here’s how to prepare your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast in just a few steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Start by patting the 3 chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure they brown properly. Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken with Flour

In a shallow dish, place the 1/2 cup of flour. Lightly dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. This will give the chicken a light, crispy crust when seared.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter (or margarine) over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and begins to foam, add the floured chicken breasts to the pan. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer — it should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In the same pan, add 6 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not burnt. Next, add 4 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 3 tablespoons of vinegar to the pan. Stir the sauce to combine all the ingredients. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Once the sauce is ready, return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

Once the chicken is coated in the sweet and savory sauce, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper over the chicken for an added kick. Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts with a side of your favorite vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes to complete the meal. You can also drizzle any leftover sauce over your side dishes for extra flavor.

Why This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe is a Must-Try

Quick and Easy

This honey garlic chicken breast recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time but want a delicious, homemade meal. The entire dish takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or even meal prep.

Flavorsome Sauce

The honey garlic sauce is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. The honey provides a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the soy sauce and vinegar. This creates a sauce that enhances the flavor of the chicken without overpowering it.

Versatile

While this recipe uses chicken breasts, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer, juicier option. You can also try using turkey breasts or other lean cuts of poultry for a variation. If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, feel free to add extra cloves of garlic to the sauce.

Customizable

This dish can easily be adapted to your preferences. You can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Honey Garlic Chicken is a great option for meal prepping. Cook the chicken ahead of time, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce will help keep the chicken juicy, and it can be easily reheated for a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions for Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Pair this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Steamed rice: The sauce pairs perfectly with rice, which absorbs all the delicious flavors.
• Roasted vegetables: Try serving the chicken with roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a nutritious and colorful meal.
• Mashed potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the sweet, savory sauce of the chicken.
• Salad: For a lighter option, serve the chicken with a fresh green salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful, and easy dinner option. The tender chicken, combined with the sweet and tangy sauce, creates a meal that is sure to satisfy every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family, this dish is perfect for all occasions.

Enjoy this mouthwatering chicken recipe that takes just minutes to prepare, and let the sweet, savory flavors elevate your dinner to the next level.