Epic 12-Minute Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe (Quick & Easy!)

Looking for the ultimate weeknight lifesaver? This easy honey garlic chicken breast recipe delivers juicy, golden chicken in a sweet and savory sauce — all in just 12 minutes!

If there’s one dish I can count on to impress my family (and save my sanity on busy nights), it’s this honey garlic chicken breast. It’s my go-to quick honey garlic chicken dinner that tastes like something from your favorite restaurant — but comes together faster than takeout.

The magic? A 5-ingredient honey garlic sauce that transforms simple chicken into sticky, glossy perfection. Plus, one little flour trick that helps the sauce cling to every bite.

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

For the chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil)

For the honey garlic sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best!)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup light soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup)

How to Make This Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make 4 thinner cutlets. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Coat with Flour

Lightly dust each piece with flour, shaking off any excess. This gives the chicken a light crust that helps the honey garlic sauce stick beautifully.

Step 3: Sear to Perfection

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken (work in batches if needed). Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden, flip, and cook another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked (165°F internal temp).

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Push the chicken to one side. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Let the sauce bubble and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened and syrupy.

Step 5: Coat & Serve

Turn the chicken in the sauce to coat it well. Let everything simmer together for 1 final minute, then serve hot.

Why This Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Is Perfect for Weeknights

This quick honey garlic chicken dinner is everything you want on a busy night:
Fast: Ready in 12 minutes, start to finish.
Easy: Made with pantry staples — no special trip to the store.
Flavor-packed: The honey garlic sauce is perfectly balanced — sweet, tangy, and savory.
Versatile: Works with pork, beef, shrimp, or tofu too!

The light flour crust on the chicken soaks up every drop of that sticky, golden sauce. Each bite is juicy, flavorful, and completely crave-worthy.

Cook’s Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken

• Always slice chicken breasts in half so they cook evenly.
• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning — moisture prevents a good sear.
• Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
• If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, simmer another minute.
• Want a spicy kick? Add red pepper flakes or a bit of fresh ginger.

What to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

This 12-minute honey garlic chicken breast pairs beautifully with:

• Jasmine rice or cauliflower rice (to soak up that extra sauce)
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Creamy mashed potatoes (that sauce doubles as gravy!)
• Egg noodles or roasted veggies

FAQs About This Quick Honey Garlic Chicken Dinner

Q: Can I make this easy honey garlic chicken breast recipe ahead of time?
A: You can slice and season the chicken ahead. The sauce is so quick that it’s best made fresh.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Definitely! Use a larger skillet or cook in batches so the chicken sears nicely.

Q: What if I only have dark soy sauce?
A: Use half the amount of dark soy sauce and add a splash of water to avoid over-salting.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Warm in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth. The microwave works, but stovetop keeps the chicken tender.

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 4 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Serves: 4

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fat: 8g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Sugar: 16g

This easy honey garlic chicken breast recipe is sure to become your new weeknight favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and 12 minutes, you’ll have a quick honey garlic chicken dinner that’s packed with flavor and sure to satisfy.