Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter, divided; 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar; 1/3 cup honey; Kosher salt to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper to taste; Green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

This Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe transforms everyday chicken into something special. Pan-fried chicken breasts are coated in flour and cooked until golden, then finished in a rich sauce made with honey, garlic, and soy sauce. The sauce thickens to create a glossy coating that’s both sweet and savory. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and pairs well with rice or vegetables. Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I can have it ready in just 20 minutes using one pan, making cleanup a breeze
I use everyday pantry ingredients while delivering restaurant-quality results
The versatile sauce works beautifully with other proteins or vegetables
It creates perfectly tender chicken that stays juicy inside

Last week, I made this for my family gathering, and even my picky nephew asked for seconds. The secret lies in letting the sauce reduce until it reaches that perfect sticky consistency that clings to every bite.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, divided
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
1/3 cup honey
Kosher salt to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Directions

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large frying pan over medium to medium-high heat.
Slice chicken breasts lengthwise into four thinner pieces. Season with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with flour.
Cook floured chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from pan and set aside.
Melt remaining butter over medium-low heat. Cook sliced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Add soy sauce and vinegar, scraping pan bits. Stir in honey, pepper, and salt. Simmer 4–5 minutes until thickened.
Return chicken to pan, simmer in sauce for 1 minute until warm. Serve garnished with green onions.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Substituting chicken thighs for breasts gives a juicier result.
For a gluten-free version, I use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
I avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.

FAQs

How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?

I ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I reheat it gently before adding the chicken.

What sides pair well with this dish?

I often serve it with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, pre-minced garlic can be a convenient substitute.

Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, I bake the floured chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then coat it with the sauce.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that I can prepare quickly and easily. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.