This Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts dish is sweet, sticky, and oh-so-tasty! With just a few simple ingredients like chicken, honey, and garlic, it’s packed with flavor.
I love how quick it is to make. Just marinate, cook, and enjoy! You’ll have a delicious meal that even your fridge will thank you for outsmarting it! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they stay moist and cook quickly. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian version!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness. If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup works nicely, or agave nectar for a lighter taste. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is key for that umami flavor. If you’re avoiding soy, try tamari or a coconut aminos product instead for a similar taste. Both are great gluten-free options too!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is preferred for its bold flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just remember, a little goes a long way with powder!
Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use flour, but mix it in cold water a bit longer to avoid lumps.
How Do I Ensure My Sauce Thickens Properly?
Thickening the sauce with cornstarch is important for that glossy finish. Start by making a slurry: mix cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Add it to the boiling sauce and stir constantly. This helps avoid clumping!
- Make sure the sauce is boiling before adding the slurry.
- Stir gently but frequently, and you’ll see it thicken in just 1-2 minutes.
- If you find it’s too thick, you can always add a splash of water or more soy sauce to adjust it.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Cooked rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help bring out their flavor when they cook.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, in the same skillet, add the honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. You’ll start to smell that sweet and savory sauce coming together!
4. Thicken the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry. Pour this mixture into the boiling sauce while stirring constantly. Keep stirring for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, then pour the thickened sauce over them. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the yummy sauce. Allow it to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
6. Serve:
Once everything is nicely cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Plate the chicken breasts and drizzle any extra sauce on top. Serve it alongside cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe. They are juicier and can hold up well to the cooking process. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
Can I Substitute the Honey?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly. If you prefer a sugar-free option, try using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, adjusting the amount to taste since they can differ in sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in the sauce for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.
What Sides Pair Well with Honey Garlic Chicken?
In addition to cooked rice, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier option, try serving it with fried rice or homemade coleslaw!
