Honey-Garlic Glazed Chicken: a Weeknight Winner!
Table of Contents
Alright, let's dive into something yummy! Ever get stuck wondering what to cook for dinner? I totally have! This recipe for Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken could solve everything.
Why This Chicken Breast Recipe Rocks!
This isn’t just another chicken breast recipe . honestly, it’s a game changer. these melt in your mouth chicken pieces are coated in a sweet and savoury glaze.
It is so so amazing.
This dish has roots in Chinese American cuisine. It's a family favorite. It requires basic cooking skills. Prep takes around 10 minutes. Cook time is only 20 minutes. This recipe serves four.
Benefits That Make You Happy
One of the best things is it's packed with protein. protein fills you up. it’s a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal.
What sets this recipe apart is the simplicity. it uses readily available ingredients. this dish transforms the humble chicken breast into something magical.
If you are looking for chicken recipes healthy , this one is delicious and simple to make!
Now, let's get to those crucial ingredients! are you as excited as i am? it's tasty chicken that you can make super fast.
If you wanted chicken dinner ideas , this could be exactly what you are looking for!
Okay, mate, let's dive into the nitty gritty of what you'll need to make this honey garlic chicken sing. we're talking ingredients and kit, yeah? i'll keep it real and avoid all that cheffy nonsense.
This is for real people, like you and me, who want tasty chicken breast recipes that actually work.
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Right, let’s sort out what we need. This recipe is all about making melt in your mouth chicken , and getting that flavour right starts here.
Chicken breasts: you'll want 4 of them, boneless and skinless. each should be around 6-8 ounces (170-225g) . quality matters here, folks.
Look for plump, pink breasts not the pale, sad-looking ones at the back of the fridge.
Olive Oil: Just 1 tablespoon (15ml) . It’s for searing, so nothing fancy needed.
Salt & Pepper: Seasoning is key. Use 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) of salt and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) of black pepper.
Honey: You’ll need 1/4 cup (85g) . Runny honey is easiest to work with, tbh.
Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , low sodium if you're watching your salt intake. Honestly, the regular stuff is usually fine.
Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is always best. Don't be shy with it.
Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Apple cider vinegar works in a pinch.
Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon (5g) . This helps thicken the glaze.
Water: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , for mixing with the cornstarch.
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) , optional but adds a nice kick.
Seasoning Notes
Spices can elevate simple chicken dinner ideas to something amazing. You want tasty chicken ? Pay attention to your seasoning.
The honey and soy sauce give a sweet savoury base. the garlic adds that pungent flavour. don’t skip the vinegar; it adds needed acidity.
If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of ginger powder can make a massive difference to these chicken breast recipes baked .
For substitutes, if you are without rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar is fine, it brings that acidity you need for a balance.
For a richer flavor, try a splash of sesame oil at the end. hearty chicken doesn't have to be complicated.
Equipment Needed
Listen, I'm not about to tell you to buy a load of fancy gadgets. We’re keeping it simple.
Large Skillet or Frying Pan: A good non-stick pan is your best friend.
Small Bowl: For mixing the glaze.
Whisk: To get the glaze nice and smooth.
Instant Read Thermometer: Optional, but it takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken. You want to hit 165° F ( 74° C) to be safe.
Honestly, that's all you need. You can totally whip up these chicken casserole recipes in your everyday kitchen!
Alright, let's dive into making some seriously tasty chicken ! a good chicken breast recipe is a total lifesaver. it's versatile and can be dressed up or down.
Seriously, it's the mvp of weeknight dinners. this outline turns plain chicken breast into something special.
Cooking Method: Honey Garlic Glaze Perfection
These honey garlic glazed chicken breasts are a weeknight dream. think chinese takeout but, y'know, way better. tender melt in your mouth chicken coated in a sticky glaze? yes, please! it's super simple, and honestly, it's like comfort food but without the guilt.
This could be one of your new favourite chicken dinner ideas .
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission
First things first: mise en place is key. get everything ready before you even turn on the stove. honestly, it will save your sanity.
Plus, a little prep saves you a mountain of stress later. make sure your chicken is thawed. i once tried to rush it.
.. never again.
step-by-step Process: Glazed Goodness Awaits!
- Pat those chicken breasts dry. Then, season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium high. Sear the chicken for 5- 7 minutes per side. Aim for golden brown!
- Double check the temp! You want 165° F ( 74° C) . A thermometer is your best mate here.
- Whisk together ¼ cup honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon water, and optional ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Lower the heat. Pour the glaze over the chicken in the skillet.
- Simmer for 2- 3 minutes , flipping now and then. The glaze should thicken and coat the chicken.
- Serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions (optional). Trust me, it elevates the dish!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Chicken Game
Want truly mouth watering chicken ? pat it dry! seriously, that's the trick to getting a good sear. a good tip: use low-sodium soy sauce.
Otherwise, it can get a bit too salty. you can easily use this tasty chicken for chicken casserole recipes , or even as a topping for salads! this recipe is a great source of lean protein and can easily be adapted to fit your dietary needs.
It's also a great way to incorporate more flavor into your chicken recipes healthy diet. this honey garlic glaze would taste great with a side of fresh vegetables or a hearty chicken salad!
Alright, let's talk about the secret sauce for nailing this honey garlic chicken breast recipe . you've got the steps down, but trust me, there's more to it than just following instructions.
It's like knowing the lyrics to a song versus truly feeling the music, you know?
Recipe Notes: Elevate Your Tasty Chicken Game
This is where we go from good to oh my gosh, this is amazing! think of these notes as your culinary cheat sheet, giving you the inside scoop for a perfect chicken dinner ideas every single time.
Serving Like a Pro: Plating & Pairings
Presentation matters! think of it as giving your melt in your mouth chicken a runway ready makeover. a simple bed of fluffy rice? yes, please.
Roasted broccoli for some green goodness? absolutely. garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. for drinks? a crisp white wine works wonders.
Storing Secrets: Keepin' it Fresh
Leftovers? score! but let's store them right. fridge is your friend. keep that hearty chicken in an airtight container. it'll be good for 3-4 days.
Want to freeze it? go for it. just wrap it up tight. when reheating, go low and slow to keep it moist.
Mix it Up: Chicken Breast Recipes Baked Style
Fancy a change? use tamari instead of soy sauce. it's gluten-free. for a vegan twist, swap the honey for maple syrup.
Want a little heat? add a pinch of cayenne pepper. you could even try swapping ingredients seasonally for some chicken casserole recipes .
Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness Inside
Okay, let's get real. a serving's about 280 calories. you get a whopping 35g of protein. there's also about 7g of fat and 20g of carbs.
This is a chicken recipes healthy option, folks. it's packed with protein. it is great for a balanced diet.
Honestly, this chicken breast recipe is more than just a meal. it's a hug on a plate. it's a reliable friend in the kitchen.
So, go on. give it a whirl. you might just surprise yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I keep my chicken breasts from drying out? Nobody likes shoe leather chicken!
That's the million dollar question, isn't it? The key is to not overcook them! Patting the chicken dry before searing helps get a nice crust and seals in moisture. Also, use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) internally, but don't go over.
Resting the chicken for a few minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a more tender result. It's like letting a good cuppa tea steep - patience is key!
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for these honey garlic glazed chicken breast recipes?
Absolutely, but thawing is essential. For best results and food safety, thaw chicken breasts completely in the refrigerator overnight. If you're in a real pinch, you can thaw them in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Just remember that using thawed chicken might slightly alter the cooking time, so keep an eye on that internal temperature you don't want a culinary cliffhanger!
What can I serve with this honey garlic chicken? It sounds great, but I'm drawing a blank on sides!
Think along the lines of an East meets-West dinner party. Steamed rice or quinoa are classic choices. For a healthy twist, try roasted broccoli, stir fried vegetables, or a simple side salad. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and some chopped green onions add a pop of colour and flavour.
Basically, anything that soaks up that delicious glaze is a winner!
How long does the honey garlic chicken last in the fridge? Can I meal prep this?
Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for meal prepping! Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the chicken moist. It's basically the gift that keeps on giving (until the fridge runs dry, that is)!
I'm watching my sodium intake. Are there ways to make this chicken breast recipe healthier?
Definitely! Use low-sodium soy sauce to significantly reduce the sodium content. You can also reduce the amount of honey slightly or substitute it with a sugar-free alternative. Serve with plenty of vegetables and whole grains to round out the meal and boost its nutritional value.
It's all about finding that balance between flavour and healthy choices, innit?
Can I bake this chicken breast instead of pan-frying it?
You sure can! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Follow the recipe instructions for prepping the chicken and making the glaze. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the glaze over them.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is a great option if you want a hands off cooking method.
Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken A Weeknight Winner
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 280 calories |
|---|---|
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbs | 20g |