What if you could make a restaurant-worthy sweet and savory chicken dinner at home in just 30 minutes? This Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe delivers juicy pan-seared chicken glazed in a sticky honey garlic sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or prepping for guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Served over fluffy white rice and garnished with fresh parsley, it’s simple, elegant, and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts horizontally if thick, to create 4 thin cutlets.
- Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar (or lemon juice), and red pepper flakes if using.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- If using cornstarch slurry, add now and stir until the sauce thickens further.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and spoon the sauce over each piece.
- Let simmer for another 1–2 minutes to absorb flavor.
- Serve chicken sliced over white rice, drizzled with extra sauce, and garnish with parsley.
Variations
- Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Add steamed broccoli or green beans for a one-pan meal.
- Replace honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Add sesame seeds on top for a nutty finish.
Cooking Note
- Cut chicken evenly so all pieces cook at the same rate.
- Don’t burn the garlic — keep heat moderate once garlic is added.
- For extra sticky glaze, reduce the sauce longer before returning the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed jasmine or basmati rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables. This dish also pairs beautifully with quinoa or rice noodles. For a lighter option, serve it over cauliflower rice or a bed of shredded cabbage.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Sauce may thicken in the fridge—add a splash of water or broth when reheating if needed.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 430
Protein: 34g
Sodium: 580mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for lower sodium and a paleo-friendly twist. Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice. Use a sugar-free honey alternative for a low-carb version.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan — this steams the chicken instead of searing it.
- Not reducing sauce enough — it should coat the back of a spoon.
- Skipping the rest time after cooking — it helps retain juices.
- Using raw garlic in sauce without sautéing — it can taste harsh and overpowering.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe is a fast, flavorful favorite that never fails to impress. From tender chicken to sticky-sweet sauce, it brings everything you want in a comforting meal. Whether it’s your first time or fiftieth, this one’s always a winner. Try it tonight and bring bold flavor to your table in 30 minutes flat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q2: Can I bake this instead of pan-searing?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, then add sauce over top before serving.
Q3: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep it GF.
Q4: Can I double the sauce for extra rice coverage?
A: Absolutely — just double all sauce ingredients and simmer a bit longer for thickness.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Sweet, savory, and full of garlicky goodness—these pan-seared Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts are perfect over rice for a quick dinner win!
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup honey
3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
1 tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional)
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
Instructions
1. Slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets and season.
2. Heat olive oil in skillet, sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken; sauté garlic in same pan.
4. Add honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and pepper flakes; simmer.
5. Optional: thicken sauce with cornstarch slurry.
6. Return chicken to pan, coat with sauce, simmer briefly.
7. Serve over rice with parsley garnish.
Notes
Use coconut aminos for a paleo-friendly option.
Swap white rice for brown or cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg