Name: One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 tablespoon Butter; 2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (sliced in half); 1/4 cup Flour (for dredging); 4 cloves Fresh Garlic (sliced or minced); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce; 2 tablespoons Seasoned Rice Vinegar; 1/3 cup Honey; Salt & Black Pepper (to taste); 2 Green Onions (thinly sliced, for garnish)

Looking for a quick and delicious meal that satisfies your taste buds? Look no further than this One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken! This dish is not only easy to prepare, taking just 20 minutes, but it also bursts with flavor thanks to its delightful combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Who wouldn’t want a sticky, sweet, and savory chicken dish that comes together in a single pan?

This savory dish allows the natural flavors of the chicken to shine while the honey-garlic sauce envelops each piece with a mouthwatering glaze. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it over rice, pair it with sautéed vegetables, or even enjoy it fresh with a crisp salad. The possibilities are endless, and whatever you choose, you will appreciate how quick and satisfying this meal can be.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken

This One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken is a standout recipe for several reasons:

Speedy Cooking: With a total time of just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time spent washing dishes.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and garlic in the sauce creates a deliciously sticky glaze that elevates the chicken.
Versatility: It pairs well with rice, salads, and vegetables, making it adaptable to your dietary preferences.
Healthier Option: Using fresh ingredients ensures you’re feeding your family wholesome food without unnecessary additives.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, preparation is key to making this One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken a success. Start with a clean workspace; it not only improves efficiency but also makes the cooking experience more enjoyable. Gather your tools: a large skillet or frying pan, a cutting board, a sharp knife, and measuring spoons. A spatula or tongs will also be helpful for flipping the chicken and stirring the sauce.

Ensure you have all your ingredients prepped and within reach. This includes seasoning the chicken beforehand by patting it dry, sprinkling it with salt and pepper, and dredging it lightly in flour. This way, your workflow will be seamless, and you’ll avoid scrambling to find something mid-cooking.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 tablespoon Butter
2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (sliced in half)
1/4 cup Flour (for dredging)
4 cloves Fresh Garlic (sliced or minced)
1/4 cup Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons Seasoned Rice Vinegar
1/3 cup Honey
Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
2 Green Onions (thinly sliced, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Season Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken. Season each piece generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors and then dredge them in flour, making sure to shake off any excess. This light coating will help create a deliciously crisp exterior once cooked.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a deep golden-brown color to develop – this will bring out the flavors beautifully. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, letting it rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Garlic & Deglaze

Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and stir it for a minute to release all its aromatic goodness, but be vigilant—garlic can burn quickly. Next, pour in the soy sauce and seasoned rice vinegar. Use a spatula to scrape up the delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan; this adds depth and flavor to your sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Now, pour the honey into the skillet, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 4-5 minutes or until it thickens slightly. This will create that wonderfully sticky coating you’re looking for. If the sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to splash in a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over it to ensure every piece is well-coated. Let the chicken heat through for just a minute, absorbing all those fantastic flavors. Once everything is warm and delightful, it’s ready to serve!

Variations

Protein: Feel free to swap chicken breasts for boneless skinless chicken thighs. Thighs have a richer flavor and moistness, making them an excellent alternative.
Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots that can be sautéed along with the chicken for a more filling dish.
Spices: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or fresh herbs like cilantro for a pop of freshness.

Cooking Notes

For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken pieces in soy sauce and honey for 30 minutes before cooking.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week; reheat gently.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over fluffy steamed rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up that luscious sauce.
Pair with a colorful sautéed vegetable medley, or enjoy with a crisp green salad.

Tips

Cut the chicken to similar sizes to ensure even cooking throughout.
For a bit of crunch, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 700mg

FAQs

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute shrimp or tofu for a different protein option that will absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha sauce to the sauce while it simmers.

Can I meal prep this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook it in advance and store it in meal prep containers for easy take-along lunches.

What should I serve with this chicken?

This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, and a side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect solution for a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner. Whether you’re short on time or just looking for a fuss-free meal that delivers on flavor, you’ll find this recipe hard to resist. Its sticky-sweet sauce and succulent chicken create a delightful taste experience that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your version or any additional ingredients you explored in the comments. Happy cooking!