Honey garlic chicken breast brings together the irresistible sweetness of honey with the rich, savory notes of garlic, creating a dish that pleases the palate. This easy-to-make recipe captivates home cooks and food lovers alike with its delightful balance of flavors. Whether cooked on a weeknight or served at a gathering, honey garlic chicken breast always impresses.
Why We Love This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
This dish is a favorite for many reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly simple, allowing you to whip it up quickly at home even if you’re short on time. The combination of honey and garlic creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking, providing an enticing aroma that fills your kitchen. The chicken remains tender and juicy, ensuring every bite is a delight. Additionally, honey garlic chicken breast is versatile; you can pair it with a variety of sides or serve it in different ways, making it suitable for any occasion. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers nutritional benefits, making it a smart choice for a nourishing meal.
Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Lay the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken bakes, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the saucepan.
- Simmer the marinade over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens into a glaze, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the oven. Brush the thickened glaze over the chicken before serving.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
Serving honey garlic chicken breast can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Start by slicing the chicken breasts into serving pieces to showcase the delicious glaze. You can place the chicken on a large serving platter or individual plates. A garnish of chopped green onions adds a pop of color and freshness. Pair your chicken with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
You can also serve it alongside fresh vegetables, such as roasted broccoli or sautéed snap peas, for a balanced meal. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more filling, consider adding mashed potatoes or quinoa as a side dish. For a complete spread, serve a light salad as an appetizer, featuring mixed greens, cucumbers, and a sesame vinaigrette. This approach not only elevates the meal but also provides a variety of textures and flavors that complement the honey garlic chicken beautifully.
Expert Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
To ensure your honey garlic chicken breast turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind. First, choose high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken, as this can make a noticeable difference in taste. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is crucial; however, marinating overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, enhancing the overall dish.
When cooking, make sure not to overcrowd the baking dish. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming the chicken, which can lead to a rubbery texture. Baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the desired doneness without drying out the meat.
Lastly, don’t skip the glaze-making step! Pouring the reduced sauce over the chicken adds an extra layer of flavor and makes your dish visually appealing. Feel free to customize the glaze by adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of rice vinegar for acidity, depending on your taste preferences.
How to Store Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
Storing leftover honey garlic chicken breast is easy. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature after cooking. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the chicken will last up to 3 to 4 days.
If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Place the cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. Frozen honey garlic chicken breast can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days!
Variations of Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
While the classic honey garlic chicken breast is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to keep things interesting. One option is to add different herbs and spices to the marinade. Try incorporating rosemary or thyme for an earthy flavor or chili powder for a spicy kick.
For a tropical twist, mix in some pineapple juice with the honey. This will add a sweet and tangy element that pairs well with the garlic. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, consider topping the cooked chicken with crushed nuts such as cashews or peanuts.
You could also try adjusting the cooking method. Instead of baking, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a quick fix, use the stovetop; simply sear the marinated chicken in a skillet, cooking it over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Lastly, think about making honey garlic chicken skewers by cutting the chicken into cubes, marinating them, and threading them onto skewers before grilling. Each variation can offer a new and exciting way to enjoy this beloved dish!
FAQ about Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
What is honey garlic chicken breast?
Honey garlic chicken breast is a savory dish made by marinating chicken in a blend of honey, garlic, and soy sauce, then baking or cooking it until tender and flavorful.
How can I make honey garlic chicken breast spicier?
To make honey garlic chicken breast spicier, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for an extra kick of heat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through than breasts.
What sides go well with honey garlic chicken breast?
Honey garlic chicken breast pairs nicely with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Choose sides that complement the sweet and savory flavors of the dish.
How can I ensure my chicken stays juicy?
To keep chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.
Honey Garlic Chicken Breast
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Lay the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken bakes, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the saucepan.
- Simmer the marinade over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens into a glaze, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the oven. Brush the thickened glaze over the chicken before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!