Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of vinegar creates an incredible balance of sweet and savory.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples for a meal that tastes gourmet.

Ingredients

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

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Lightly coat each chicken breast with flour, shaking off any excess.

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat.
2. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the chicken absorb the flavors.

Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
2. Serve hot with the remaining sauce drizzled over the top. Pair with rice, vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Protein Swap: Try this recipe with boneless chicken thighs or pork chops for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower florets for a meat-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks through.

What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?

Rice vinegar or white wine vinegar are great substitutes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Reheat them together when ready to serve.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

The cooked chicken and sauce can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How can I thicken the sauce further?

Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and stir it into the sauce, letting it simmer until thickened.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your skillet is large enough to cook the chicken evenly, or cook in batches.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a simple salad complement this dish beautifully.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking the chicken by removing it from the skillet as soon as it’s cooked through. Simmering it briefly in the sauce helps retain moisture.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic from a jar can be used as a time-saving alternative.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe is a go-to meal for its simplicity, rich flavors, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner made right in your kitchen!

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