If you’ve been searching for a comforting, irresistible weeknight meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect blend of sweet honey and punchy garlic, balanced with a savory soy-based sauce that caramelizes beautifully over tender, juicy chicken breasts. Simple enough to whip up on a busy evening, yet rich in flavor that delights every bite, this dish always earns a spot at my table and will quickly become a favorite in yours too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe is how straightforward its ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding golden color, that perfect hint of sweetness, or a bit of savory depth that makes the chicken sing.
- 2 large chicken breasts: The star protein, which stays juicy and tender when cooked right.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the chicken beautifully without burning.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds rich, buttery notes and helps create a luscious sauce base.
- Chopped scallions (optional but recommended): For a fresh, mild onion crunch and vibrant color on top.
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Provides a deep umami flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey.
- 1/4 cup honey: The sweet heart of the recipe, creating that sticky, golden glaze everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and ensures a silky sauce consistency.
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar: Gives a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness for balance.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Loads of savory punch and aromatic flavor that defines the dish.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: The secret to thickening the sauce perfectly without gelatinous texture.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 400F and moving the rack to the top third. This positioning ensures the chicken finishes cooking with a nice golden finish without overcooking. Getting this part right sets the stage for that perfect texture.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
Mix together the honey, soy sauce, chicken broth, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Whisking the sauce ingredients properly is key to achieving a smooth, rich glaze that clings perfectly to every piece of chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces, making them cook evenly and faster. Then, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step builds the foundation for flavor.
Step 4: Heat Your Skillet
Place olive oil and butter in an oven-safe skillet and heat over medium-high. Letting the skillet get hot ensures a beautiful sear on the chicken, which locks in juices and creates a mouthwatering crust.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Cook the chicken pieces for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they’re perfectly golden brown. This step adds depth and texture before the oven finishes it off.
Step 6: Add Sauce and Bake
Give the sauce another quick whisk before pouring it into the skillet between the chicken pieces. Let it bubble for about 30 seconds so the sauce starts thickening. Spoon some of this luscious sauce over the chicken, then pop the skillet in the oven for 4 to 5 minutes, just until the chicken reaches 165F and the sauce thickens nicely. Be careful not to leave it in too long or the sugar in the honey can burn.
Step 7: Serve
Once out of the oven, spoon more of the sticky sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped scallions for a fresh, vibrant finish. This last touch makes all the difference in flavor and presentation.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh chopped scallions is my go-to, giving a lovely crunch and a pop of green that contrasts with the glossy, golden sauce. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or even a few fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten the dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up the sauce. Think fluffy steamed rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables. For something light and fresh, a crisp side salad or sautéed greens like spinach or bok choy works perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or family meal, serve the chicken over a bed of jasmine rice or noodles, letting that honey garlic sauce cascade over everything. You can also plate each piece alongside a colorful medley of veggies for a vibrant, balanced plate that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. This will help restore the silky texture without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe because they stay extra juicy and add a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. The sauce will maintain its delicious balance without gluten.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and sweet rather than spicy, making it family-friendly. If you like a little heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when whisking the sauce.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can whisk the sauce together a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before using to recombine any ingredients that may have settled.
What is the best way to tell when the chicken is done?
The safest and most reliable method is using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F. This ensures perfectly cooked chicken that’s juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t recommend this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe enough for anyone who loves easy, flavorful meals that come together quickly but taste like they took hours to perfect. It’s a dish that feels like a comforting classic yet has a freshness and vibrancy that’ll have you reaching for seconds every time. Give it a try, share it with friends, and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful sauce made from honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of lemon juice. The chicken is seared on the stovetop to develop a golden crust, then finished in the oven to ensure juicy, perfectly cooked meat while the sauce thickens into a delicious glaze. Garnished with chopped scallions, it’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Chopped scallions to taste (optional but recommended)
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and move the rack to the top third position to prepare for finishing the chicken in the oven.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, chicken broth, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat Skillet: Add olive oil and butter to an oven-safe skillet and heat over medium-high heat for a few minutes until the butter melts and the skillet is hot.
- Sear Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Add Sauce & Simmer: Quickly whisk the sauce again, then pour it into the skillet around the chicken pieces. Let it bubble gently for about 30 seconds to start thickening. Remove skillet from heat, spoon some sauce over each chicken piece.
- Finish in Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 4-5 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce thickens further without burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped scallions if desired.
Notes
- Cutting the chicken breasts in half ensures faster, even cooking and more surface area for the sauce to coat.
- If you don’t have chicken broth, water can be used as a substitute, though flavor may be slightly less rich.
- Use an oven-safe skillet like cast iron or stainless steel to transfer seamlessly from stovetop to oven.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken in the oven to prevent dryness and sauce burning.
- Chopped scallions add freshness and color but are optional.
