Introduction
Are you looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea that will leave your taste buds singing with joy? Look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to make honey garlic chicken that’s not only incredibly tasty but also ready in just 15 minutes. This mouthwatering recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the savory goodness of garlic, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will have your family asking for seconds. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a moment to gather all the ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts without skin
- Salt
- Ground black pepper
- All-purpose flour
- 2.8 tablespoons (40 grams) of butter
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Spring onion
- 1.4 tablespoons (20 grams) of butter
- 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar
- 5 tablespoons of honey
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Preparing the Chicken
- Prep the Chicken: Start by getting your fresh chicken breasts and patting them dry. This step is essential to ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
- Cut and Season: Cut diagonal lines around halfway through the chicken breasts. Then, turn the chicken in the opposite direction and cut the same diagonal lines, resulting in square cuts that are halfway through the chicken. Season the chicken with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper. Massage the seasoning into the meat to ensure it absorbs the flavors.
- Coat with Flour: In a plate or bowl, put some all-purpose flour and use it to coat your chicken breasts thoroughly. Make sure to cover all sides evenly.
Cooking the Honey Garlic Chicken
- Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over low to medium heat and add 40 grams of butter. Allow it to melt until it starts sizzling.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and let them fry for about 4-5 minutes on one side. You’ll want to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Prepare the Garlic: While the chicken is cooking, crush and mince the garlic cloves. Set them aside for later.
- Flip and Add Butter: Flip the chicken breasts and fry the other side for an additional 4 minutes. As you do this, add another 20 grams of butter to the skillet and let it melt.
- Create the Flavor Base: Now, it’s time to infuse the dish with that delightful garlic aroma. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and allow it to cook until fragrant.
- The Sweet and Savory Sauce: Pour in the light soy sauce and give everything a good mix. Once combined, add the vinegar and honey to create a delectable sauce. Continue to mix well and let it reduce slightly.
- Continued Flipping: Keep flipping the chicken during this process to ensure it absorbs all the amazing flavors from the sauce.
- Add Spring Onions: Finally, add the chopped spring onions to the skillet and turn off the heat. The residual heat will continue to cook the onions just enough to release their flavors.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the honey garlic chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before plating. This step helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Conclusion
And there you have it – a mouthwatering honey garlic chicken dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes! The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and tender chicken makes this recipe a winner for any weeknight dinner. Surprise your family with this quick and delicious meal; they won’t believe it only took you 15 minutes to prepare!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can! Boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and offer a slightly different flavor and texture.
- What side dishes pair well with honey garlic chicken?
- Some great side dish options include steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad.
- Is it possible to make this dish spicy?
- Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the honey garlic sauce.
- Can I prepare the chicken in advance and reheat it later?
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- What other proteins can I use for this recipe?
- This honey garlic sauce is versatile and pairs well with shrimp, pork, or tofu, so feel free to experiment with your favorite protein!
So, there you have it! A quick and easy recipe for honey garlic chicken that will have you enjoying a delicious dinner in no time. Get cooking and savor the amazing flavors of this delightful dish!