Description
Honey Glazed Chicken is a simple, flavorful dinner featuring tender chicken coated in a glossy glaze made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of lemon. The sauce delivers a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making this versatile dish perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Honey Glaze Sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for a thicker glaze)
Garnish (Optional)
- Sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. If using chicken breasts, slice thicker pieces horizontally or gently pound them to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, lemon juice, ginger if using, paprika, and black pepper.
- Heat the skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown.
- Add the glaze: Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the honey sauce into the skillet. Turn the chicken to coat it evenly.
- Simmer the chicken: Simmer for 5–8 minutes, turning occasionally and spooning the glaze over the chicken, until the sauce thickens and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Thicken the glaze (optional): For a thicker glaze, mix the cornstarch with the water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the skillet and simmer for 1–2 minutes until glossy.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the chicken rest for 3 minutes. Slice the chicken if desired and drizzle with the remaining glaze. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Notes
- Choose your chicken: Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier, while chicken breasts provide a leaner option.
- Prevent burning: Honey can burn quickly, so keep the heat moderate and reduce it if the sauce darkens too fast.
- Adjust the sweetness: Add extra lemon juice or a splash of rice vinegar for a tangier glaze.
- Add some heat: Stir in red pepper flakes or a little sriracha for a spicy-sweet variation.
- Serving ideas: Serve with rice, quinoa, roasted broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen the glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner, Chicken
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American
