Why You’ll Love 30 Minute Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those who crave a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The honey garlic sauce is the star of the dish, with its balance of sweetness from the honey and depth of flavor from garlic and soy sauce. The chicken cooks quickly, making it an ideal option for busy days when you want something homemade but don’t have much time. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can pair it with various sides to suit your taste.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1/4 cup honey
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
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While the chicken is cooking, make the honey garlic sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
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In the same skillet, pour in the honey garlic sauce. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
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Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring it’s well glazed.
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Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 4
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Total Time: 30 minutes (including prep and cook time)
Variations
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Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce to spice it up.
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Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken: For extra texture, bread the chicken breasts with breadcrumbs before frying them. This will add a crispy exterior that pairs well with the sweet and savory sauce.
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Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier option. Thighs will take a little longer to cook but are equally delicious.
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Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or a hearty vegetable like cauliflower or sweet potato for a vegetarian alternative. Make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Storage/reheating
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Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, or microwave it for 1-2 minutes until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up when reheating.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. They may take a little longer to cook, so make sure they reach 165°F internally.
Can I make this recipe with boneless skinless chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and will give you even more tender and juicy chicken.
Can I freeze the honey garlic chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Be sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When reheating, be sure to defrost it first.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas can make the dish even more nutritious. Just sauté them in the same pan after removing the chicken.
How can I make the honey garlic sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply simmer it for an extra minute or so until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, giving the dish a slightly different flavor profile, but it will still be delicious!
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when ready to use.
What can I serve this with?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides, such as steamed rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.
Conclusion
30 Minute Honey Garlic Chicken is a quick and easy meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. With a savory-sweet sauce that coats juicy chicken, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a satisfying dinner in a flash. Whether you make it as is or add your own twists, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking routine.
30 Minute Honey Garlic Chicken
Quick and delicious, this 30-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts smothered in a flavorful honey garlic sauce. Perfect for busy nights when you want something sweet, savory, and ready in no time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and ground ginger. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat with the honey garlic sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and sesame seeds (if desired). Serve hot with rice, veggies, or your favorite side.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to suit your taste.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
