Description
A simple, pantry-staple honey garlic chicken marinade that creates juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. It balances sweet honey with savory soy sauce and bright acidity for a restaurant-quality result.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup raw honey (clover or wildflower recommended)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 4 to 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, black pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. If honey is cold, microwave for 15 seconds to help dissolve.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels. If using breasts, pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag or container. Pour marinade over chicken, seal, and massage to coat. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
- Remove chicken from fridge and let sit for 10 minutes to take the chill off. Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Place chicken in the pan. Do not move for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Boil remaining marinade in a small saucepan for 2 minutes to thicken into a glaze, then brush over cooked chicken.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
Do not marinate for more than 24 hours as the acid can break down the meat. Always cook over medium heat to prevent the honey from burning. Let chicken rest before slicing. Boil leftover marinade before using as a sauce to kill bacteria. For baking, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One chicken breast w
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 24
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Protein: 35
Keywords: honey garlic chicken, chicken marinade, meal prep, easy dinner, healthy chicken, gluten-free option, dairy-free