Honey Garlic Chicken 

Honey Garlic Chicken is a fantastic 12-minute recipe that features a magical 5-ingredient Honey Garlic Sauce! It’s a great quick dinner option for those hectic evenings and ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. It’s truly impressive how just a handful of ingredients can create such a delicious sauce for chicken!

TIP: You can use any protein you like—beef, pork, lamb, shrimp, prawns, or even tofu!

Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

This chicken breast sauce is a delightful spin on my Honey Garlic Salmon , a favorite among readers for many years.

If I were to ever gather up my top five go-to sauces, Honey Garlic Sauce would absolutely be at the top of that list. It’s a favorite because it’s made with a few pantry staples. When it simmers with a perfectly seared protein in a skillet and transforms into a bubbly, syrupy delight… Well, it’s simply amazing!

It’s absolutely fantastic! (← Who even says that these days?! I do, but only for truly exceptional situations. Excitement about this incredibly delicious secret sauce definitely qualifies! 😎)

Terrific quick chicken breast recipe

Even though I personally favor chicken thighs for their superior flavor and juiciness, I still end up adding chicken breast to my shopping cart week.

Over the years, I’ve gathered a wonderful collection of quick and easy chicken breast recipes . Among them, this Honey Garlic Chicken has become one of my go-to favorites that whip up time and time again.

What you need

See? I knew you’d already have all the ingredients you need! 😉

How to make Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

• Slice each chicken breast in half, turning 2 breasts into 4 lovely pieces!
• Dust chicken with flour (gives the chicken a slight crust so the sauce clings to it better!)
• Start by searing the chicken, then add some butter and garlic. Finish it off with a splash of vinegar, a dash of soy sauce, and a drizzle of honey
• Let the sauce bubble away until it thickens up nicely. Give the chicken a good turn to soak up that incredible honey garlic flavor!

And THAT’S ALL!

Looking to grill? Try this Grilled Honey Soy Chicken recipe instead.

See how the sauce perfectly sticks to the chicken? That’s thanks to a light dusting of flour that forms a delightful crust when pan-fried.

What to serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

There’s plenty of sauce to pour over vegetables and let seep into rice or any side you choose. Its bold flavor ensures you need just a little to make a big impact!

The dish shown above is served with Cauliflower Rice, enhanced with a touch of lemon, parsley, salt, and pepper, accompanied by a refreshing Cucumber Salad on the side.

Even though soy sauce is a key ingredient in the Honey Garlic Sauce, it doesn’t have an overly Asian flavor. It’s so versatile that it pairs beautifully with Fried Rice, Macaroni Salad, and even Mac and Cheese Yes, really! Give it a try, and you’ll see what I mean—it only takes 12 minutes, so you’ve definitely got the time!

Pro Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken

1. Use Fresh Garlic

For the best flavor, always use fresh garlic rather than pre-minced garlic. Fresh garlic gives a sharper, more aromatic taste that elevates the sauce. If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two!

2. Balance the Sweetness

Honey is the main source of sweetness in this dish, but you can adjust the amount based on your personal preference. If you like it sweeter, increase the honey, but if you prefer a more savory flavor, reduce the amount of honey and add a little more soy sauce or vinegar.

3. Add a Splash of Acid

To balance out the richness of the honey, add a touch of vinegar (rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar work best) to the sauce. The acidity will cut through the sweetness and bring a bright, fresh flavor to the dish.

4. Use Boneless, Skinless Thighs

Chicken thighs, especially boneless and skinless, are perfect for this recipe. They stay juicy and absorb the sauce better than chicken breasts. If you’re using chicken breasts, consider marinating them first to keep them moist.

5. Sear the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

To get a crispy, caramelized exterior on your chicken, make sure to sear the chicken pieces in a hot pan. This caramelization will create a beautiful flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory sauce.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work great for this recipe. They are slightly more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts, and they’ll absorb the honey garlic sauce well. You can use boneless, skinless thighs for the best results.

Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

If you’re avoiding soy sauce, you can use a soy sauce substitute like coconut aminos, tamari (for a gluten-free option), or even Worcestershire sauce for a different flavor profile. You can also reduce the amount of salt in the recipe if you’re using a soy sauce alternative.

How do I make Honey Garlic Chicken spicy?

To add a bit of heat to your Honey Garlic Chicken, try adding red pepper flakes, Sriracha sauce, or a small amount of chili paste to the sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference, starting with a pinch and adding more to taste.

Can I make Honey Garlic Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the Honey Garlic Chicken in advance! Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce together in a pan until warmed through.