Weeknights can feel like a whirlwind—like trying to catch your breath while chasing a runaway kite. Amidst the chaos, this easy honey garlic chicken recipe is a beacon of sanity and comfort. With a few simple ingredients, it delivers a burst of flavor that feels like a warm hug after a long day, reminding you that sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate luxury.
Steps
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four thin pieces in total. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place flour in a shallow dish and coat each chicken piece, shaking off any excess flour.
- In a large skillet over high heat, melt most of the butter, reserving a small amount for later. Cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for 1 minute.
- Reduce the heat to medium-high, make space in the pan, and add minced garlic with the remaining butter. Stir briefly as the butter melts.
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Stir or shake the pan to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it thicken for about a minute.
- Coat the chicken with the sauce by turning it in the pan. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water and stir.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, place the chicken on serving plates, and drizzle with the remaining sauce.
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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 protein instead of chicken breast?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken breast with other proteins like beef, pork, lamb, prawns, or even tofu. Just follow the same cooking method and adjust the cooking time based on the protein used.
- What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Breast?
- This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. You can serve it with vegetables, rice, fried rice, or even pasta salads like macaroni salad. The sauce is flavorful enough to complement many different accompaniments.
- Is it necessary to dust the chicken with flour?
- Dusting the chicken with flour helps create a slight crust that allows the sauce to adhere better. While it’s not strictly necessary, it enhances the overall texture and flavor of the dish.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using cornstarch instead of flour. The chicken won’t brown as evenly, but the sauce will still be delicious.
- Does the Honey Garlic Sauce have a strong Asian flavor?
- Although the sauce contains soy sauce, it doesn’t have an overwhelmingly Asian taste. It’s versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes, from traditional Western sides to more Asian-inspired meals.
Tips
- Dust the Chicken with Flour: Lightly coating the chicken with flour before cooking helps create a slight crust, allowing the sauce to adhere better to the chicken, enhancing both texture and flavor.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick while simmering, simply add a splash of water to thin it out to your preferred consistency without compromising flavor.
- Versatile Sauce for Various Proteins: This honey garlic sauce works well with a variety of proteins, including beef, pork, lamb, shrimp, and even tofu. Just adjust the cooking time based on the protein used and ensure to add the sauce ingredients before the protein is fully cooked.
- Pairing Suggestions: The robust flavor of the sauce means it pairs well with a wide range of sides, from rice and veggies to macaroni salad or even mac and cheese, providing a versatile meal option.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – A good quality skillet is essential for searing the chicken and making the sauce.
- Meat Mallet or Tenderizer – While not explicitly mentioned, splitting chicken breasts often involves flattening them, for which a meat mallet can be useful.
- Silicone Spatula – Useful for stirring the sauce and ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan.