Honey Garlic Baked Chicken
When it comes to easy yet delicious dinners, Honey Garlic Baked Chicken is a true winner. This dish is packed with bold flavors—sweet honey, savory garlic, and a hint of spice—coming together to create the perfect glaze over juicy, tender chicken. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or even a casual weekend meal.
Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Just whisk, bake, and enjoy!
- Deliciously balanced flavors: The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard creates a mouthwatering glaze.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Healthy choice: Made with lean chicken and simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible honey garlic baked chicken:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy when baked.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances the natural flavor.
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest – Adds a fresh citrusy brightness.
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the chicken stay moist.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – The star of the show!
- 3 tablespoons honey – Adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Brings in a deep, umami richness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle tangy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Provides an earthy depth.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Gives a slight smoky note.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who love a bit of heat.
For Garnish & Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a pop of freshness.
- Lemon slices – Complements the honey garlic sauce beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Honey Garlic Baked Chicken:
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. This prevents the chicken from sticking and ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. This mixture will serve as both the marinade and glaze for the chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and pour the sauce over them, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For extra flavor, baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through baking.
Step 5: Broil for a Caramelized Glaze
For a rich, golden glaze, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 6: Rest, Garnish & Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Honey Garlic Baked Chicken
This dish is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:
- Rice: Serve it over steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair it with oven-roasted carrots, broccoli, or asparagus for a wholesome meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture balances the sweet and savory sauce.
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Baked Chicken
- Use even-sized chicken breasts: This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Baste for extra flavor: Spoon the sauce over the chicken while baking for more depth.
- Broil carefully: Watch closely when broiling to prevent burning.
- Let it rest: Resting helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
Storage & Reheating
Storing Leftovers:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Baked Chicken recipe is a game-changer for quick, flavorful meals. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness in every bite.
Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! 🍽️✨
Would you like to add any additional tips or variations? 😊