There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a perfectly cooked chicken breast coated in a rich, sticky, and flavorful honey garlic glaze. This dish combines the sweetness of honey, the deep umami of soy sauce, and the warmth of garlic to create a mouthwatering meal that is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a homemade dish, this recipe is sure to be a winner.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet.
- Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
- Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and stir it into the glaze.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it generously with the honey garlic glaze.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2–3 minutes, flipping it occasionally to ensure every side is well-coated.
- Add the butter to the glaze for a rich, glossy finish.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the honey garlic glazed chicken over a bed of steamed rice or fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers, for a well-balanced meal.
Tips for the Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure it stays juicy and tender.
- Balance sweetness and acidity: Adjust the amount of honey and vinegar based on your personal preference.
Honey garlic glazed chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that combines sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness in every bite. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, it’s an excellent recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. Try it today and enjoy a dish that’s both comforting and restaurant-quality from the comfort of your home!