Pan-Seared Honey Garlic Chicken

Pan-Seared Honey Garlic Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that features tender, golden-seared chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. With a perfectly balanced glaze made from pantry staples, this dish brings restaurant-quality taste to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and convenient – Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Packed with flavor – A delicious balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky notes.

• Minimal ingredients – Made with common pantry staples.

• Versatile – Pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

• Kid-friendly – Mild and sweet flavors make it a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

• ¼ cup honey

• ¼ cup chicken broth

• ½ tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner pieces. Pat dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, chicken broth, lemon juice, garlic, and cornstarch until smooth.

4. Pour the sauce into the same skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

6. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.

• Citrus Boost: Substitute orange juice for lemon juice for a sweeter twist.

• Ginger-Garlic Sauce: Add 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for added depth.

• Vegetarian Alternative: Use tofu or cauliflower in place of chicken and follow the same steps.

• Herb Finish: Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped scallions for extra color and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave at medium power in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs are a great alternative and provide extra juiciness.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

Arrowroot powder or flour can be used to thicken the sauce if cornstarch is unavailable.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce separately and store them. Combine and reheat before serving.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then coat in the heated sauce before serving.

Can I double the sauce for extra coverage?

Absolutely. Doubling the sauce is a great idea if you want extra for rice or noodles.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Lower the heat when sautéing garlic and stir frequently to avoid overcooking.

What kind of honey works best?

Use mild-flavored honey like clover or wildflower. Avoid dark, strong-tasting honey which may overpower the sauce.

What should I serve with this chicken?

This dish goes well with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Honey Garlic Chicken is a fast, flavorful recipe that delivers big taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a quick meal for guests, this dish is sure to become a regular on your table. Its sticky-sweet glaze, savory undertones, and juicy chicken make it a reliable favorite worth repeating.