Discover the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness with this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe. Tender chicken coated in a luscious honey-soy glaze, it’s a recipe that’s both elegant and comforting. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish is ideal for a busy weeknight or a special family dinner.
Exciting Story:
This recipe is a cherished favorite in our household. My husband always lights up when he hears we’re having it for dinner, and my little ones call it “the sticky yummy chicken!” I remember the first time I made it—our kitchen was filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic sizzling in butter. It’s become a staple for Sunday dinners, often paired with fluffy rice and fresh veggies. Every time I serve it, I’m reminded of the joy of bringing loved ones together over a meal that feels like a warm hug.
Why This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast?
- Flavor Explosion: A delightful combination of sweet honey, salty soy sauce, and aromatic garlic creates a sauce that’s nothing short of addictive.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings without compromising on taste.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve it with rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
- Elegant Yet Simple: It’s fancy enough for entertaining but easy enough to whip up on a whim.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
- 2 tbsp (30 g) butter, divided
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) seasoned rice vinegar
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) honey
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Directions:
- Prepare the Cooking Base:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. - Prep the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner pieces. Sprinkle each piece with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour, ensuring an even coating. - Cook the Chicken:
Place the chicken in the heated skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside, keeping any juices. - Create the Sauce Base:
In the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the garlic slices and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. - Deglaze and Flavor the Sauce:
Pour in the soy sauce and rice vinegar, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the honey, adding a pinch of salt and some cracked black pepper. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. - Combine and Finish:
Return the chicken and its juices to the pan, spooning the sauce over the pieces. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and warmed through. - Serve and Garnish:
Plate the chicken and drizzle with the sauce. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a pop of freshness.
Notes:
- Substitutions: You can swap seasoned rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if needed.
- Cooking Tips: Be careful not to overcook the garlic—it should be fragrant but not browned.
- Serving Ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed broccoli.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the sauce’s texture.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe—comfort food at its finest!