Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is a quick, flavorful dinner made with tender chicken coated in a glossy sweet-and-savory sauce. This honey garlic chicken breast recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting, satisfying, and made with simple pantry staples.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet, savory, and garlicky flavor balance
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- One-pan recipe with minimal cleanup
- Family-friendly and meal-prep friendly
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast (2 pieces)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup)
Instructions
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to make 4 thin steaks. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place flour in a shallow dish. Lightly coat chicken, shaking off excess.
- Heat most of the butter in a large skillet over high heat, reserving about 1 teaspoon.
- Cook chicken for 2–3 minutes until golden. Flip and cook the other side for 1 minute.
- Reduce heat to medium-high. Push chicken aside, add garlic and remaining butter, and stir briefly.
- Add vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Simmer 1 minute until slightly thickened.
- Turn chicken to coat in sauce. Add a splash of water if sauce becomes too thick.
- Remove from heat immediately. Serve hot with extra honey garlic sauce spooned over the top.
Tips & Tricks
- Pound chicken lightly for even cooking
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred
- Maple syrup works well as a honey substitute
- Add a splash of chicken broth to loosen sauce if needed
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-seared
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly
Notes
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped parsley if desired
- Chicken thighs can be used with slightly longer cook time
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 16g
FAQ
Can I make honey garlic chicken breast ahead of time?
Yes, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Yes, sear first then bake at 200°C (400°F) for 8–10 minutes.
Is this recipe very sweet?
It’s balanced; reduce honey slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
What can I use instead of soy sauce?
Coconut aminos or tamari work well.
How do I keep chicken juicy?
Do not overcook and remove from heat as soon as sauce thickens.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Freezing is possible for up to 2 months.
Similar Recipes
Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (2 pieces)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter or 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
Instructions
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to make 4 thin steaks. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place flour in a shallow dish. Lightly coat chicken, shaking off excess.
- Heat most of the butter in a large skillet over high heat, reserving about 1 teaspoon.
- Cook chicken for 2–3 minutes until golden. Flip and cook the other side for 1 minute.
- Reduce heat to medium-high. Push chicken aside, add garlic and remaining butter, and stir briefly.
- Add vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Simmer 1 minute until slightly thickened.
- Turn chicken to coat in sauce. Add a splash of water if sauce becomes too thick.
- Remove from heat immediately. Serve hot with extra honey garlic sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe is a reliable go-to meal with bold flavor and minimal effort. Sweet, sticky, and garlicky, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.