Craving something sweet and savory? This honey garlic chicken is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those nights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s so quick and easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it your whole life—unless, of course, your go-to is still microwave meals. No judgment here!
Steps
- Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create four thin steaks. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Pour flour into a shallow dish, coat each piece of chicken in the flour, and shake off any excess.
- Heat most of the butter in a large skillet over high heat, saving a small amount for later. Cook the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until golden, then flip and cook the other side for 1 minute.
- Lower the heat slightly to medium-high. Create space in the skillet, add minced garlic, and the remaining butter. Stir the garlic briefly as the butter melts.
- Add apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about a minute.
- Turn the chicken pieces in the sauce to coat them thoroughly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water to thin it out. Remove from heat and serve, drizzling any leftover sauce over the chicken.
Ingredients
- 500g / 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (2 pieces)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup flour
- 3 1/2 tbsp (50g) unsalted butter (or 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white or other clear vinegar)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce, light or all-purpose
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1292cal | Carbohydrates: 92g | Protein: 112g | Fat: 52g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Cholesterol: 428mg | Sodium: 1600mg | Potassium: 1944mg | Sugar: 84g | Vitamin A: 1400IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of protein for Honey Garlic Chicken?
- Absolutely! This versatile sauce works well with various proteins like beef, pork, lamb, shrimp, prawns, and even tofu. Simply follow the same method, adjusting the cooking time as needed for the specific protein.
- Do I need to use light soy sauce, or can I use a different kind?
- Light or all-purpose soy sauce is recommended for this recipe to maintain the balance of flavors. Dark soy sauce is not advised as it could overpower the dish.
- Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use cornflour or cornstarch instead of regular flour to make this recipe gluten-free. The coating might not brown as evenly, but once covered in the sauce, it will still taste delicious.
- Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it?
- Definitely! If you prefer grilling, you might want to try a Grilled Honey Soy Chicken recipe. The sauce can still be used as a marinade or finishing glaze.
- What should I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Breast?
- This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with rice, cauliflower rice, or a side salad. Its robust flavor complements both Asian-inspired sides like fried rice and Western sides like macaroni salad.
Tips
- Dusting with Flour: Lightly coat the chicken in flour before cooking. This creates a slight crust, helping the sauce adhere better and enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water to reach the desired consistency. This ensures the sauce coats the chicken evenly without becoming overly sticky.
- Versatile Sauce: This honey garlic sauce pairs well with various proteins. Feel free to experiment with beef, pork, lamb, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a delightful twist.
- Serving Suggestions: The strong flavor of the sauce means you don’t need much to enhance your meal. It pairs well with rice, vegetables, or even a side of macaroni salad for a complete and satisfying dish.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – for searing the chicken and cooking the sauce.
- Meat Mallet or Knife – for splitting the chicken breast in half.
- Shallow Dish – for coating the chicken in flour.
