why make this recipe
Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts is a delicious and easy recipe that anyone can make at home. The sweet flavor of honey combined with the tangy garlic sauce creates a wonderful taste that pairs perfectly with chicken. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also quick, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
how to make Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Directions:
Prepare & Season Chicken
Butterfly or pound the chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness. Pat dry with paper towels, then generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.Make Sauce Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together the low-sodium chicken broth, honey, soy sauce (or tamari), minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and the optional grated ginger and red pepper flakes until well combined.Prepare Cornstarch Slurry
In a small separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until a smooth, lump-free slurry forms. Set aside.Sear Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot pan. Sear undisturbed for 4-6 minutes per side, or until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.Thicken Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the whisked honey garlic sauce base into the hot pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Re-whisk the cornstarch slurry and slowly pour it into the simmering sauce in a thin stream, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes wonderfully glossy.Combine & Serve
Carefully place the cooked chicken breasts back into the thickened honey garlic sauce, turning to coat each piece thoroughly. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes to heat through and meld flavors. Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest in the sauce for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers (chicken and sauce) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until just heated through, adding a splash of broth if the sauce is too thick.
how to serve Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro and toasted sesame seeds. This dish pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
how to store Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing the container.
tips to make Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry for a better sear.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- If you like a bit of spice, feel free to add more red pepper flakes.
variation
You can replace chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a darker meat option. Also, if you’re looking for a healthier option, try using low-sugar honey or sugar-free soy sauce.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
Q2: Is this dish gluten-free?
A2: Yes, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook the chicken.
Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Ingredients
Method
- Butterfly or pound the chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness. Pat dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, honey, soy sauce (or tamari), minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes until combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the honey garlic sauce base to the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer, then whisk in the cornstarch slurry until thickened.
- Return chicken to the sauce to coat. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, then let the chicken rest in the sauce before serving. Garnish, if desired.