Honey Glazed Chicken

Honey Glazed Chicken

There’s something truly special about the first time you take a bite of Honey Glazed Chicken. Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table on Sunday evenings, and this dish was often the star. The aroma of the chicken cooking in a sweet and savory sauce filled our home, creating an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness. I remember my siblings and I eagerly waiting for that first bite, as the crispy skin contrasted beautifully with the rich glaze. It’s a dish that brings back fond memories of laughter and love, and it never fails to impress guests when I prepare it for them today. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Honey Glazed Chicken always finds a way to make the moment memorable.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
320 kcal
Protein:
28 g
Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free
Fat:
14 g
Tools Used:
Cast Iron Skillet

What You’ll Enjoy About This Honey Glazed Chicken

A Sweet and Savory Combination

The balance of flavors in Honey Glazed Chicken is simply irresistible. The sweetness of the honey perfectly complements the savory notes of the soy sauce and garlic, creating a glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds. When you pour that luscious sauce over the chicken, it caramelizes beautifully, giving you a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Easy to Prepare

One of the reasons I love Honey Glazed Chicken is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a gourmet meal that feels much more elaborate than it is. It’s great for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Just a little prep and you’re on your way to a fantastic dinner!

Versatile for Any Occasion

This dish has a wonderful versatility that allows it to shine at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue, an elegant dinner party, or simply enjoying a quiet family meal, Honey Glazed Chicken fits right in. You can even serve it over rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal that satisfies.

Healthy Ingredients

The ingredients in Honey Glazed Chicken are not only delicious but also wholesome. With lean chicken, honey, and fresh garlic, this dish presents an opportunity to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising on health. I love knowing that I’m feeding my family nutritious options while still delighting their taste buds.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to save time during the week, Honey Glazed Chicken is fantastic for meal prep. You can make a big batch, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when needed. It’s just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect choice for lunches or quick dinners.

Ingredient List for Honey Glazed Chicken

Honey Glazed Chicken

The key to a successful Honey Glazed Chicken is in its ingredients. Each component works harmoniously to create a dish that delights the palate. The sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with the savory elements of soy sauce and garlic, while the addition of ginger adds a fresh, zingy note. Together, they create a glaze that infuses the chicken with flavor and moisture, ensuring every bite is a pleasure.

  • All-Purpose Flour: This ingredient creates a light coating for the chicken, helping to achieve a crispy texture when pan-fried.
  • Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances the flavors of the chicken and the glaze.
  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, they are lean and cook quickly, making them perfect for this recipe.
  • Vegetable Oil: Used for frying the chicken, it helps achieve that golden-brown exterior.
  • Honey: The star ingredient, it provides sweetness to balance the savory elements of the sauce.
  • Orange Juice: Adds a citrusy brightness that complements the honey and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Rice Vinegar: This adds acidity, which helps cut through the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
  • Soy Sauce: Provides depth and umami, enriching the overall profile of the dish.
  • Cornstarch: This is used to thicken the glaze, giving it that sticky, luscious quality.
  • Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way in providing a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds robust flavor that elevates the glaze.
  • Fresh Ginger: Adds a zesty kick that brightens the dish.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but they provide a delightful hint of heat that contrasts with the sweetness.
  • Chopped Green Onion: Used as a garnish, they add freshness and color to the finished dish.
  • Sesame Seeds: A final touch for texture and visual appeal.

Preparation Steps for Honey Glazed Chicken

Honey Glazed Chicken

Preparing Honey Glazed Chicken is a straightforward process that rewards you with a mouthwatering meal. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and the glaze can caramelize properly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together â…“ cup of all-purpose flour, â…› teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a seasoned flour mixture.
  3. Take the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and dredge them in the flour mixture, coating each piece thoroughly. This will help create a crispy crust when you fry them.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the honey sauce: ½ cup honey, ¼ cup orange juice, ¼ cup rice vinegar, ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), and 1 (1-inch piece) fresh ginger (minced). Set this aside for later use.
  5. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat ¼ cup vegetable oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.
  6. Once heated, add the dredged chicken pieces to the skillet, frying them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. If needed, fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the chicken to steam instead of fry.
  7. After browning, pour the honey sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Use tongs to carefully coat each piece in the sauce, letting it seep into every nook and cranny.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and allow it to cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  9. Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring each bite is juicy.
  10. Before serving, sprinkle the top with chopped green onion and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy the delicious flavors of Honey Glazed Chicken!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Choosing the right chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken if possible, as they often have better flavor and texture.
  • Preheating your skillet: Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that crispy, golden crust.
  • Resting the chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps keep it moist and tender.
  • Watch the glaze: Keep an eye on the honey glaze while it’s cooking; you don’t want it to burn!

Variations to Try

Honey Glazed Chicken

If you’re looking to mix things up with Honey Glazed Chicken, here are some fun variations to consider:

  • Add a kick: Incorporate some chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for an added spicy flavor.
  • Fruit twist: Experiment with different fruit juices like pineapple or lemon to give the glaze a unique twist.
  • Herbaceous touch: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic flavor profile.
  • Grilled version: Instead of baking, try grilling the chicken for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the honey glaze.
  • Vegetable pairing: Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal.
  • Rice options: Try serving over jasmine or coconut rice for a lovely pairing with the sweet glaze.

How to Serve Honey Glazed Chicken

Serving Honey Glazed Chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas:

  • Pair with rice: Serve it over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious glaze.
  • Roasted vegetables: Complement the chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side.
  • Fresh salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette will balance the sweetness of the dish.
  • Perfect for lunch: Enjoy the leftovers as a flavorful addition to your lunchbox, served cold or reheated.
  • Special occasions: This dish is wonderful for gatherings, holiday dinners, or a cozy family meal.
  • Garnish well: Don’t forget to sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using chicken thighs instead of breasts can add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Thighs have a higher fat content, which keeps them juicy during cooking. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure that you check for doneness using a meat thermometer.

Honey Glazed Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides! Consider serving it over rice, like jasmine or basmati, to soak up the delicious glaze. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also make great accompaniments, balancing the richness of the dish. You could even add some roasted potatoes for a hearty meal!

Yes, you can prepare the glaze for Honey Glazed Chicken ahead of time! Mix all the glaze ingredients together and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure everything is well combined.

Definitely! Grilling Honey Glazed Chicken adds a delightful smoky flavor. Just marinate the chicken in the glaze before grilling. Make sure to keep an eye on it, as the sugar in the honey can caramelize quickly on the grill. Flip frequently and cook until the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature!

Conclusion

Honey Glazed Chicken stands out for its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a dish that everyone loves. This recipe not only offers a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious meal but also brings warmth and joy to any table. I encourage you to give it a try; you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create a gourmet experience right at home!

Honey Glazed Chicken

Honey Glazed Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Honey Glazed Chicken is a sweet and savory delight perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken is coated in a luscious honey glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how it always impresses your guests!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • â…“ cup All-Purpose Flour
  • â…› teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • ¼ cup Vegetable Oil
  • ½ cup Honey
  • ¼ cup Orange Juice
  • ¼ cup Rice Vinegar
  • ¼ cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons Sesame Oil
  • 3 cloves Garlic
  • 1 1-inch piece Fresh Ginger
  • ½ teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional
  • to taste Chopped Green Onion For garnish
  • to taste Sesame Seeds For garnish

Equipment

  • cast-iron skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and the glaze can caramelize properly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together â…“ cup of all-purpose flour, â…› teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a seasoned flour mixture.
  3. Take the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and dredge them in the flour mixture, coating each piece thoroughly. This will help create a crispy crust when you fry them.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the honey sauce: ½ cup honey, ¼ cup orange juice, ¼ cup rice vinegar, ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), and 1 (1-inch piece) fresh ginger (minced). Set this aside for later use.
  5. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat ¼ cup vegetable oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.
  6. Once heated, add the dredged chicken pieces to the skillet, frying them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. If needed, fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the chicken to steam instead of fry.
  7. After browning, pour the honey sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Use tongs to carefully coat each piece in the sauce, letting it seep into every nook and cranny.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and allow it to cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  9. Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring each bite is juicy.
  10. Before serving, sprinkle the top with chopped green onion and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy the delicious flavors of Honey Glazed Chicken!

Notes

  • Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
  • Pairing: Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
  • Meal prep: This is a great recipe to make ahead of time, as the flavors only deepen after refrigeration.
  • Serving suggestions: Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

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