Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Create a mouthwatering dinner with these Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts. Juicy chicken cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce will become a favorite in your household. Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, this gluten-free dish pairs beautifully with rice or veggies for a complete meal.
These Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts are perfect for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal. The balance of sweet and savory in the sauce will tantalize your taste buds, making you want to come back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make
- Delicious honey garlic flavor
- Gluten-free
- Perfect for busy weeknights
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken
Cooking chicken breasts can sometimes be tricky, as they can easily become dry if overcooked. To ensure your chicken remains juicy, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the breast to ensure that it's no longer pink inside. This method guarantees a perfect result every time, making your Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts consistently delightful.
Before seasoning your chicken, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This will promote even cooking and help achieve that perfect juicy texture. Also, consider marinating the chicken for a couple of hours in the honey garlic sauce before cooking for an added flavor boost. This simple step can transform an already delicious recipe into something truly extraordinary.
Pairing Suggestions
While the honey garlic sauce is sweet and savory, pairing your chicken with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Steamed jasmine or basmati rice complements the dish perfectly, absorbing the delicious sauce while adding a fluffy texture. For a healthier option, consider a side of sautéed vegetables. Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add color and crunch, making your plate visually appealing and nutritious.
If you're looking for something a little different, try serving this chicken atop a salad. Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the sauce. You could also make a wrap using tortillas and load them with sliced chicken, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a quick lunch or dinner on the go.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or gluten-free soy sauce)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the cooked chicken.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and add it to the skillet. Stir until thickened.
Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Pair with rice or veggies.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts!
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare for this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be done on the stovetop over low heat for the best results. Add a few drops of water to the skillet to keep the chicken moist while it reheats. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the chicken.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken breasts in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy again, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The honey garlic sauce can also be made in advance and stored separately, letting you enjoy this dish whenever you crave it.
Health Benefits of Honey Garlic Chicken
This Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe isn't just delicious but also brings several health benefits to the table. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It’s low in fat compared to other meats, making it a sensible choice for health-conscious eaters. The garlic in this dish is not only flavorful; it's known for its anti-inflammatory properties and immune-boosting capabilities, adding further nutritional value to your meal.
Honey, while a natural sweetener, also has health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial properties. Pairing honey with garlic creates a dish that's not just tasty but also beneficial for your overall well-being. So, you can enjoy your meal while knowing you're nourishing your body.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, this recipe works well with thighs or drumsticks too.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce.
Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Create a mouthwatering dinner with these Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts. Juicy chicken cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce will become a favorite in your household. Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, this gluten-free dish pairs beautifully with rice or veggies for a complete meal.
Created by: Evelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or gluten-free soy sauce)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the cooked chicken.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and add it to the skillet. Stir until thickened.
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Pair with rice or veggies.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 8g