Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Get ready to meet your new weeknight obsession: Honey Garlic Chicken Breast! This dish is absolutely irresistible, with juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a luscious, glossy honey garlic sauce that’s equal parts sweet, savory, and just a little sticky.

The secret to why this recipe is so special? That silky homemade sauce caramelizes beautifully right in your skillet, giving every bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it comes together in under 40 minutes—so you can enjoy all the taste without any fuss.

Whether you’re serving family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something a little more exciting than plain old chicken, this is a must-try. I made this inspired by a restaurant favorite, and it’s been my go-to for busy nights ever since!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Comes together in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
• Mouthwatering honey garlic sauce everyone will love—even picky eaters
• Foolproof method for juicy, tender chicken every time
• Versatile—pairs well with rice, veggies, or noodles

Key Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breasts

These are the stars of the show! Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts—pounded to an even thickness for the best, most even cooking. If you prefer, chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier result.

Honey

Honey brings the signature sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish to the sauce. Try to use a good-quality, pure honey for the richest flavor. If you want to experiment, maple syrup also works but will slightly change the taste.

Garlic

Fresh garlic cloves are best here, finely minced to infuse the sauce with tons of robust flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic from a jar can work, just know the taste won’t be quite as sharp.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce adds deep umami and balances the sweetness. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos—either option will still give you a savory, salty note.

Butter

Just a touch of butter gives the sauce body and a rich, silky texture. You could substitute with olive oil, but the dish may be slightly less creamy and smooth.

Instructions for Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep and Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, then pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 to 3/4 inch) for even cooking. Mix flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl, then lightly dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in honey, soy sauce, water, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.

Coat and Finish the Chicken

Return the chicken breasts (and any juices) to the skillet. Flip them in the sauce until well coated and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, spooning sauce over the top. The sauce should thicken to a beautiful glaze.

Garnish and Serve

Turn off heat. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve right away with plenty of sauce spooned over the top.

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a kick of heat. You could also stir in a small, chopped fresh chili if you like things extra spicy!

Gluten-Free Option

Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use tamari or coconut aminos in place of regular soy sauce. This variation is just as flavorful and perfect for those avoiding gluten.

Swap the Protein

Not a fan of chicken breast? Chicken thighs, pork chops, or even salmon fillets work beautifully with this honey garlic sauce. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Add Some Veggies

Toss in broccoli florets, snap peas, or bell pepper strips during the last few minutes of cooking for a veggie boost. They'll soak up all that delicious sauce!

Lower Sugar Version

Reduce the honey by half and add a splash more water or chicken broth. The sauce will still be sticky and tasty, just less sweet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Honey Garlic Chicken Breast over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up every drop of sauce. Add a side of roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans for a vibrant, balanced meal. A sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds makes a perfect finishing touch!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. If freezing, slice the chicken and freeze with sauce for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Garlic Chicken Breast (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful—just increase the cook time by a few minutes, since thighs take longer to cook through.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, it reheats beautifully and stays moist. Store portions with extra sauce over rice or veggies for grab-and-go lunches.

Q: What if I don't have fresh garlic?
A: You can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in a pinch, although fresh garlic gives the sauce its best flavor.

This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast recipe is pure dinnertime magic—so easy, so delicious, and guaranteed to win over the whole family! If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Don’t forget to leave a comment or share your rating below!