Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet, savory, and mouthwatering dish that combines the natural sweetness of honey with the rich flavor of garlic. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and takes just a few ingredients to create a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. The balance of flavors is perfectly suited for all taste preferences, making this chicken an instant favorite. Whether you prefer it served with rice, vegetables, or simply on its own, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts or thighs
Honey
Garlic (minced)
Soy sauce
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Prep the Chicken: Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and cook the chicken on both sides until golden brown, around 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through.
Add the Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken in the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is coated evenly with the sauce.
Serve: Remove the chicken from the pan and serve it with your favorite sides. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Total preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Ready in: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to the pan while cooking the chicken for added texture and flavor.
Use Chicken Thighs: For juicier, more flavorful chicken, opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover honey garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or extra honey sauce to keep it moist. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they tend to be a bit drier than thighs. Consider adding a little extra sauce to keep the chicken moist.

2. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove of garlic.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply cook the chicken and add the sauce.

4. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar are good alternatives if you’re looking for a vegan option or simply don’t have honey on hand.

5. Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or a tamari sauce if you need a gluten-free or soy-free option.

6. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This honey garlic chicken is perfect for meal prep. Just store the cooked chicken and sauce separately, then reheat when you’re ready to eat.

7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken, and the juices should run clear.

8. Can I freeze leftover honey garlic chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover chicken. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat.

9. Can I add other seasonings to the sauce?

Yes, you can adjust the sauce to your taste by adding ingredients like ginger, lemon juice, or even a splash of vinegar to enhance the flavor.

10. What should I serve with honey garlic chicken?

Honey garlic chicken pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with noodles or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it perfect for any occasion, and with simple ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights. Whether served on its own or paired with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to impress!