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Juicy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts

Juicy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts

Juicy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with tender, lean chicken breasts glazed in a honey garlic sauce. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for busy weeknights and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, delivering a comforting and impressive meal that stays juicy every time.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for cooking
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by lightly pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick better.
  2. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. This blend is your flavorful glaze that seals in juiciness.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour half the sauce over them. Let them marinate for 15 to 30 minutes to absorb maximum flavor without breaking down the texture.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil. Sear the chicken on each side for about 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, pouring the remaining sauce over near the end to caramelize slightly.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This ensures every bite stays incredibly juicy and tender.

Notes

  • Even Thickness: Pounding chicken breasts helps them cook uniformly, preventing dry edges.
  • Fresh Garlic: Use fresh garlic instead of powder for a vibrant, punchy flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook: Remove the chicken once it reaches 165°F internally to keep it moist.
  • Sauce Caramelization: Add the glaze at the end to create a beautiful sticky coating without burning.
  • Rest Time: Let the meat rest before slicing to lock in juices and improve tenderness.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, juicy chicken breasts, quick chicken recipe, gluten-free chicken, weeknight dinner