A quick, comforting dinner doesn’t have to mean bland or boring. I make this honey glazed chicken skillet when I want something easy, flavorful, and done in under 30 minutes. The combination of golden-seared chicken breasts and a sticky-sweet glaze made from honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of vinegar makes this dish shine. Best of all, it all comes together in one pan—less cleanup, more flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it checks all the boxes: simple, fast, and incredibly delicious. The sweet and savory glaze balances perfectly with tender, juicy chicken breasts, and the whole dish is ready in just about 25 minutes. Whether I serve it over fluffy rice, steamed veggies, or just on its own, it always hits the spot. Plus, it’s gluten-free and high-protein—ideal for a healthier dinner option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup honey
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
I start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Then I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
I sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
I lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
Next, I add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
I pour in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes, stirring everything together.
I let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Then I return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the glaze over the top, and let it cook for another 2 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Finally, I garnish it with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings and comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 310 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs when I want an even juicier result.
For a citrusy twist, I add a splash of orange juice or zest to the glaze.
I’ve made it spicy by upping the red pepper flakes or adding a drizzle of sriracha.
When I want a lower-sugar version, I reduce the honey slightly or replace some with a sugar-free substitute.
If I need to stretch the meal, I slice the chicken and toss it with stir-fried veggies for a quick honey garlic stir-fry.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the chicken and glaze in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. The microwave works too—I cover it and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the glaze texture can change after thawing.
Related Recipes:
- Honey Glazed Salmon
- Honey Glazed Apple & Sweet Potato Casserole
- Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
I check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the center should be white, not pink.
Can I make this with bone-in chicken?
Yes, but I increase the cooking time and make sure to sear the chicken well. I often finish it in the oven at 375°F for about 10–15 minutes if I use thicker cuts.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes—as long as I use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Regular soy sauce contains wheat, so it’s important to check the label.
What sides go well with honey glazed chicken?
I usually pair it with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a crisp salad. The glaze also goes great with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. I sometimes make the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge. The chicken can also be cooked ahead and reheated in the glaze right before serving.
Conclusion
This honey glazed chicken skillet is a staple in my dinner rotation for a reason—it’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With just one pan and a handful of pantry staples, I can whip up a meal that feels both special and effortless. Whether I’m cooking for my family or meal prepping for the week, this dish always delivers.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Honey Glazed Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This quick and flavorful honey glazed chicken skillet is made with golden-seared chicken breasts and a sweet-savory glaze of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar. Ready in under 30 minutes and cooked in one pan, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and gluten-free.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup honey
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon glaze over the top. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
Add orange juice or zest for a citrusy variation.
Increase red pepper flakes or add sriracha for extra heat.
For a lower-sugar version, reduce honey or use a sugar-free substitute.
Slice chicken and add stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water.
Ensure soy sauce is gluten-free if following a gluten-free diet.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
