Print

Savory Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe with Sticky Glaze Easy and Perfect

honey garlic chicken breast - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a glossy, sticky honey garlic glaze that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
  • 1/4 cup honey (85 g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with black pepper. Do not add salt.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and water until well combined. Set aside.
  3. Heat a 10-inch non-stick or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Add the chicken breasts and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flip carefully and cook another 4 minutes. The chicken will not be fully cooked yet.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour the honey garlic glaze over the chicken. Spoon some sauce over the tops.
  6. Simmer the chicken in the sauce for 5-7 minutes, flipping once or twice and basting with the glaze until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky.
  7. Check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F / 74°C) or cut into the thickest part to ensure juices run clear.
  8. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 3 minutes. Spoon extra glaze over the top and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

If the glaze thickens too much before the chicken is cooked, add a splash of water to loosen it. Letting the chicken rest after cooking locks in juices and keeps it tender. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a good sear. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, sticky glaze chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, weeknight meal, savory chicken breast