Main Course

Honey Garlic Chicken – Cheap Delicious Meals

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken – Cheap Delicious Meals
Prep time: 4 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 12 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Before you begin, gather these simple ingredients:; 1/3 cup honey; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang.; 500/ 1 lb chicken breast: Boneless and skinless is preferred for tenderness.; 1 tbsp soy sauce: A hint of saltiness and umami.; Salt and pepper: To taste.; 1/4 cup flour: For dredging the chicken, giving it a nice crust.; 3 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: A little smokiness for depth.; 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Balances the sweetness.; 2 garlic cloves, minced: Because garlic makes everything better.

Martha Adams August 6, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 12 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the delightful world of honey garlic chicken, let’s talk about what you can serve it with. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of sides that complement its sweet and savory flavors.

Steamed Rice: There’s something about fluffy rice that just works. It soaks in the sauce and balances the dish perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Think colorful veggies—broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers roasted to perfection. They add a nice crunch and a burst of color.
Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast.
Noodles: Whether you prefer spaghetti or lo mein, noodles mixed with a bit of soy sauce enhance the Asian-inspired flavors.

Let me paint a picture for you: it’s a busy weeknight, and dinner needs to be ready faster than a speeding bullet. I know the hustle.

I’ve been there. Nothing beats the familiar aroma of honey garlic chicken wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. This recipe is not just simple; it’s a ticket to a wholesome, satisfying meal that the whole family will rave about.

In this blog post, I’ll take you through the ins and outs of creating the perfect honey garlic chicken. The ingredients hit all the right notes, and, believe me, the process is as straightforward as it gets. By the end, you’ll be ready to impress with this new staple in your dinner rotation!

What is Honey Garlic Chicken?

Honey garlic chicken is a one-pan wonder. Tender chicken breast is coated with a luscious mixture made of honey and garlic, balanced with a hint of acidity from vinegar or soy sauce. The result? A sticky, flavorful glaze dripping with mouthwatering goodness.

This dish appeals to all ages. It’s sweet enough to please picky eaters while the savory undertones keep it interesting for foodies. Whether you’re preparing a dinner for two or making a feast for the family, this recipe rises to any occasion.

Why This Recipe Works

Several things make this honey garlic chicken recipe remarkable. Let’s break them down:

Balancing Flavors: The blend of honey’s sweetness with the garlic’s pungency offers depth. The acidity from vinegar or soy sauce brightens everything.
Quick Cooking Time: You can have dinner on the table in about thirty minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Customizable: This recipe can be tweaked in numerous ways, whether it’s changing the protein or adjusting the sweetness.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients, it’s easy on both the budget and the pantry.
One-Pan Meal: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup. Who doesn’t appreciate that?

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Before you begin, gather these simple ingredients:

1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup): For that luscious sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang.
500g / 1 lb chicken breast: Boneless and skinless is preferred for tenderness.
1 tbsp soy sauce: A hint of saltiness and umami.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
1/4 cup flour: For dredging the chicken, giving it a nice crust.
3 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter (or olive oil): For cooking the chicken.
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: A little smokiness for depth.
1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Balances the sweetness.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Because garlic makes everything better.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken

Now, let’s get ready to whip up this crowd-pleaser. Between the sweet glaze and the tender chicken, there’s a delightful journey to embark on.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. This simple step helps create a crispy outer layer when cooked.

Step 2: Create the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar. This concoction will become the mouthwatering glaze, so be sure to mix it well.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (or olive oil) until hot. Then, add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them on each side until golden brown, around 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Once the chicken is golden, pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken. Reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently, spooning the sauce over the chicken, until the chicken is cooked through or reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Stir and Thicken the Sauce

When the chicken is ready, cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, coating the chicken beautifully.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Slice it, drizzle with the sauce from the pan, and get ready to dig in.

Tips for Success

Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to increase or decrease the honey according to your taste.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds more flavor compared to garlic powder.
Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or whisk in a cornstarch slurry.
Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest post-cooking. This keeps it juicy.
Garnish: Consider adding green onions or sesame seeds for garnish. They brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Store Leftovers?
If you find yourself with extra honey garlic chicken (which is rare!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last 3-4 days, and you can reheat it on the stove or microwave.

Nutrition Information

For those keeping an eye on their nutrition, an approximate serving of honey garlic chicken (without sides) includes:

Calories: about 300-350
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 15g

This dish offers a good balance but remember that serving sizes and added sides will affect the total nutritional value.

How Would I Recommend Serving Honey Garlic Chicken?

Serving honey garlic chicken can be as creative as you like. Here are four delightful suggestions:

With Jasmine Rice: Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the sauce, creating a frugal, flavor-packed base. A sprinkle of green onions on top turns the meal into an eye-catching plate.
With Stir-Fried Veggies: Pair it with a colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots sautéed in garlic and soy sauce. The fresh crunch complements the tender chicken.
In a Wrap: Slice the chicken and place it in a tortilla with fresh greens, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of extra sauce. It makes for a tasty, handheld meal perfect for lunch boxes.
On Noodles: Serve the chicken over noodles tossed with sesame oil and veggies. It’s an efficient way to combine flavors, and everyone will leave the table feeling full.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t worry. Here are some substitutions:

Honey: Maple syrup can perfectly replace honey. It lends a similar sweetness with a unique twist.
Soy Sauce: If you can’t have soy sauce, try using tamari for a gluten-free alternative, or opt for coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
Chicken Breast: Thighs can replace breast meat. They’re juicier and bring a richer flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: In its absence, replace it with white vinegar or rice vinegar. These alternatives maintain the acidity needed in the dish.

Conclusion

Honey garlic chicken is not just another recipe; it’s an experience filled with joy and flavor. I’ve shared tips, alternatives, and answers to your questions—all to ensure you feel equipped to make this dish confidently. So go ahead.

Give it a try! It might just become your new go-to meal for those busy weeknights or unexpected company. Trust me; the aroma alone will draw everyone in. Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and make new memories around the dinner table. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken – Cheap Delicious Meals

Author: Martha Adams Cuisine: Western Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 4 mins Cook Time 8 mins Total Time 12 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 300-350

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Let me paint a picture for you: it’s a busy weeknight, and dinner needs to be ready faster than a speeding bullet. I know the hustle.