Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is a delicious and quick dish that easily impresses. This recipe features tender chicken breast, perfectly seared and coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors is simple yet satisfying, making it a standout choice for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 12 minutes from start to finish, you can serve up a delicious meal in no time.
• Minimal Ingredients: A short list of pantry staples means you can whip this up without a long grocery run.
• Versatile Flavor: The honey garlic sauce pairs well with various proteins like chicken, beef, lamb, and even tofu.
• Easy Cleanup: Cook everything in one pan for less mess and hassle after your meal.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors of this dish appeal to all ages, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make Honey Garlic Chicken Breast, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures an easier cooking process and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Shallow dish
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden sear on the chicken.
• Shallow dish: Ideal for coating the chicken with flour evenly without creating a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when preparing the chicken breasts.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your sauce.

Ingredients

Recipe video above. An incredible quick and easy way to serve up chicken breast – seared then simmered in the most amazing honey garlic sauce. Don’t be deceived by the short ingredient list! It’s absolutely worth the extra step of dusting the chicken with flour because it creates a crust for the sauce to cling to. BONUS: See notes for how to make this with any protein – beef, lamb, prawns/shrimp, tofu!

For the Chicken

• 500g / 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless (2 pieces)
• Salt and pepper
• 1/4 cup flour

For the Sauce

• 3 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter (or 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white or other clear vinegar)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce, light or all purpose
• 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup)

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the breasts in half horizontally to create 4 steaks in total.
2. Sprinkle each side with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Coat with Flour

1. Place flour in a shallow dish.
2. Coat chicken in flour and shake off excess.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Melt most of the butter in a large skillet over high heat – hold back about 1 tsp for later.
2. Place chicken in skillet and cook for 2 – 3 minutes until golden.
3. Turn and cook the other side for 1 minute.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Turn heat down slightly to medium high.
2. Make room in the pan; add minced garlic along with remaining butter.
3. Stir garlic briefly once butter melts.
4. Add vinegar, soy sauce, and honey; stir/shake pan to combine.
5. Bring sauce to simmer; let simmer for 1 minute or until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Finish Up

1. Turn chicken to coat thoroughly in sauce; if it gets too thick, add a touch of water while stirring.
2. Remove from stove immediately; place chicken on plates.
3. Drizzle over remaining sauce before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Honey Garlic Chicken Breast!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Serving Honey Garlic Chicken Breast can be both delightful and versatile. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes, enhancing its flavor and presentation.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli or Green Beans: Lightly steamed to retain crunchiness, these veggies provide a fresh contrast to the sweet sauce.
• Carrots: Sliced and steamed or roasted for added sweetness and color on the plate.

Over Rice

• White Rice: Fluffy rice soaks up the delicious honey garlic sauce perfectly.
• Brown Rice: A heartier option that adds fiber, complementing the chicken’s flavors beautifully.

In a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, the chicken adds protein to this refreshing dish.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw can balance the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce.

As a Wrap

• Tortilla Wraps: Sliced chicken breast wrapped in tortillas with lettuce and tomatoes make for a tasty handheld meal.
• Lettuce Cups: For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves topped with your favorite condiments.

How to Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

To achieve the best Honey Garlic Chicken Breast, attention to detail is key. Follow these tips to ensure every bite is flavorful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality honey enhance the sauce’s flavor significantly.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy but fully cooked through.
• Coat Evenly in Flour: This creates a nice crust that helps hold onto the sauce while adding texture.
• Simmer Sauce Carefully: Keep an eye on the sauce as it thickens; you want it glossy but not too thick.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Pairing side dishes with Honey Garlic Chicken Breast can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the dish’s sweetness.
2. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious salad with quinoa, herbs, and diced vegetables adds texture and freshness.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with honey garlic flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.
4. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices works wonderfully alongside this chicken dish.
5. Sauteed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and balances out rich flavors of the chicken.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn provides sweetness and crunch; perfect for summer meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Honey Garlic Chicken Breast can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for. Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Not seasoning the chicken: Failing to season the chicken breasts before cooking can result in bland flavors. Always season both sides with salt and pepper for better taste.
• Skipping the flour coating: Skipping the flour dusting means losing out on that delightful sauce cling. Always coat the chicken lightly to create a tasty crust.
• Using high heat throughout: Cooking on high heat for too long may burn the chicken. Start high for searing, then lower the heat for even cooking.
• Neglecting to monitor sauce thickness: Allowing the sauce to thicken too much can make it difficult to coat the chicken evenly. Stir regularly and add a touch of water if needed.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken breast can become dry and tough. Keep an eye on cooking time, and remove it when it’s just cooked through.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Breast in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Reheat the chicken for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Honey Garlic Chicken Breast?

Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is a delicious dish made by searing chicken breasts and simmering them in a rich honey garlic sauce.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute turkey, beef, lamb, shrimp, or even tofu while using the same cooking method.

How do I make Honey Garlic Chicken Breast gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a substitute when coating the chicken.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

What side dishes pair well with Honey Garlic Chicken Breast?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, steamed vegetables, or salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins or side dishes. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!