Honey Garlic Soy Sauce Chicken

This honey garlic soy sauce chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful option for busy evenings. Featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, glossy sauce made with honey, garlic, and soy sauce, this dish pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, it uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. With its balance of savory and slightly sweet notes, this recipe is ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts
• Pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Flour, for dredging
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or stock
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets. Season both sides with pepper and garlic powder. Lightly coat each piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   Remove the skillet from heat and add the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Return the skillet to the heat and let the mixture bubble for about a minute.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 1 teaspoon of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the skillet, allowing the sauce to thicken.
5. Combine and Cook:
   Return the chicken to the skillet, including any juices that collected on the plate. Cook for another 5 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the chicken. Reduce the heat slightly if the sauce is bubbling too vigorously. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
6. Serve:
   Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and drizzle with the glossy honey garlic soy sauce. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavor: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a harmonious blend of sweetness and umami.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients: Requires basic pantry staples and fresh chicken, making it both affordable and accessible.

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Tips

• Pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor instead of pre-minced.
• Let the chicken rest briefly after searing to retain its juiciness.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for dredging and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, but for best results, reheat the chicken in the sauce on the stovetop to preserve its texture.

Q: Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium?
A: Yes, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid an overly salty dish.

Q: What if I don’t have chicken broth?
A: Substitute with vegetable broth or even water for a milder flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• Rice or Noodles: Pair with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles to soak up the sauce.
• Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich sauce beautifully.