Can you whip up a restaurant-quality chicken dish in just 12 minutes? Yes, you can! This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe defies expectations by transforming a few pantry staples into a mouthwatering main course. Featuring tender chicken seared to perfection and bathed in a sweet-savory glaze, this dish is a testament to how simplicity often leads to the most satisfying results. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just craving a flavorful homemade meal, this quick honey garlic chicken breast recipe is your answer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 12 minutes from prep to plate.
- Minimal ingredients: Only seven pantry-friendly items needed.
- Incredibly flavorful: A perfectly balanced sauce that clings to the chicken.
- Versatile: Works beautifully with various proteins, including tofu, prawns, and fish.
- Kid-friendly: A sweet and savory taste that even picky eaters will love.
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornflour for gluten-free option)
- 3.5 tbsp unsalted butter (or 2.5 tbsp olive oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or any clear vinegar)
- 1 tbsp light or all-purpose soy sauce
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup for a twist)
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
- Halve the chicken breasts horizontally to yield four thin fillets. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place flour in a shallow bowl. Lightly coat each chicken piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Heat most of the butter in a large skillet over high heat, reserving 1 tsp for later.
- Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden. Flip and cook for another minute.
- Reduce the heat to medium-high. Push chicken to the side and add garlic and the remaining butter to the pan. Stir briefly as the butter melts.
- Pour in vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Stir or shake the pan to combine. Let simmer for about a minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly with the sauce. If the sauce becomes overly thick, stir in a little water to loosen it.
- Remove from heat, serve hot, and drizzle any remaining sauce over the chicken.
Helpful Tips
- Opt for a non-stick skillet to avoid burning and sticking of the sauce.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Slice the chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Adjust the vinegar to honey ratio for more tang or sweetness.
Substitutions And Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for dusting.
- Vegan Option: Swap chicken with firm tofu and butter with plant-based butter.
- Alternative Proteins: Try this sauce with pork chops, beef cutlets, or prawns.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
- Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes! Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
Is this dish freezer-friendly? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely. Prepare the sauce and store it separately. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked chicken.
How do I know the chicken is cooked through? Check with a meat thermometer – it should register 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe proves that a delicious, satisfying meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few ingredients and under 15 minutes, you can enjoy a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. Give it a try tonight and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your fellow food lovers or explore more of our quick dinner ideas!
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Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is a quick 12-minute dinner recipe made with simple pantry staples and packed with sweet-savory flavor. Try it tonight and share your results!
Ingredients
500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
3.5 tbsp unsalted butter (or 2.5 tbsp olive oil)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1.5 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or any clear vinegar)
1 tbsp light or all-purpose soy sauce
1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup)
Instructions
Halve the chicken breasts horizontally to yield four thin fillets. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Place flour in a shallow bowl. Lightly coat each chicken piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
Heat most of the butter in a large skillet over high heat, reserving 1 tsp for later.
Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden. Flip and cook for another minute.
Reduce the heat to medium-high. Push chicken to the side and add garlic and the remaining butter to the pan. Stir briefly as the butter melts.
Pour in vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Stir or shake the pan to combine. Let simmer for about a minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
Coat the chicken thoroughly with the sauce. If the sauce becomes overly thick, stir in a little water to loosen it.
Remove from heat, serve hot, and drizzle any remaining sauce over the chicken.
Notes
Use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Swap chicken for tofu, prawns, pork, or fish.
Add chili flakes for heat or maple syrup for a twist.
Sauce can be made ahead and stored separately.
- Prep Time: 4 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes