Ready in just 30 minutes, this Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick, one-pan recipe that turns simple ingredients into something truly special. With juicy seared chicken breast cutlets simmered in a sticky, savory-sweet honey garlic sauce, this weeknight dinner is a total game-changer.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes—including prep!
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like garlic, soy sauce, and honey.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
- Family Favorite: Sweet and savory flavors that kids and adults both love.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, veggies—or anything you love!
đź›’ Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise for faster cooking)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp seasoned rice vinegar
- 1/3 cup honey
- Kosher salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
🔪 How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken
1. Prep the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner cutlets. Season generously with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge in flour to help create a golden crust and thicken the sauce later.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the olive oil. Add the chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
In the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (but not browned). Deglaze the pan with soy sauce and rice vinegar, scraping up any browned bits, then stir in the honey. Simmer for 4–5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Glaze & Finish
Return the chicken and any juices to the pan. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and simmer for 1–2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and glazed. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Pair this sticky, garlicky chicken with:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Stir-fried or roasted vegetables
- Garlic noodles or sesame noodles
- A simple cucumber salad for a fresh contrast
🥡 Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
🔄 Variations & Substitutions
- Swap the Protein: Use turkey breast, boneless pork chops, or even shrimp.
- Make it Vegan: Try tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat.
- No Honey? Substitute with maple syrup or agave for a different kind of sweetness.
- Gluten-Free? Use tamari in place of soy sauce and gluten-free flour for dredging.
❤️ A Recipe with Heart
This Honey Garlic Chicken brings back cozy memories—it’s one of the first recipes I made regularly when learning to cook, and it’s stood the test of time. Inspired by my popular Honey Garlic Salmon, this chicken version is just as crave-worthy. Whether you’re new to cooking or just need something quick and delicious, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.