Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Breasts

Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Breasts are a flavorful blend of sweet, savory, and smoky. Marinated in a rich mixture of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of spice, the chicken is grilled to juicy perfection and finished with a glossy glaze that caramelizes beautifully over the flame. This dish is simple, delicious, and ideal for backyard barbecues or weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with a subtle garlicky kick. It requires minimal ingredients and yields juicy, tender chicken every time. The honey garlic glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a sticky, flavorful crust. It’s versatile enough for both casual meals and special occasions, and pairs well with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
• Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Place chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours).
Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
Remove chicken from marinade, reserving excess. Grill chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
While grilling, baste chicken with reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking.
Remove from grill, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes (plus 1+ hour to marinate)

Variations

– Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor
– Add grated ginger to the marinade for a zesty note
– Substitute maple syrup for honey for a slightly different sweetness
– Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version
– Grill pineapple slices alongside for a tropical pairing

Storage / Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave until just warmed through.
To freeze, let cooked chicken cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use this marinade for other proteins?

Yes, it works well with pork, shrimp, or tofu.

Is it okay to marinate overnight?

Yes, but no longer than 8 hours to avoid overly soft texture from the acidic marinade.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature is 165°F.

Do I need to boil the marinade before basting?

If you plan to baste with marinade that touched raw chicken, bring it to a boil first to kill bacteria.

What sides go best with this dish?

Try steamed rice, grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp salad.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, use 1 teaspoon garlic powder in place of 4 cloves of fresh garlic.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Clean and oil the grill grates before cooking, and avoid flipping the chicken too early.

What’s the best way to ensure juicy chicken?

Don’t overcook—use a meat thermometer and remove at exactly 165°F. Let it rest before slicing.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s mildly sweet and savory, appealing to children and adults alike.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale the marinade and use a large dish or two bags for even coating.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Breasts are a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers every time. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, this grilled chicken is juicy, caramelized, and irresistibly aromatic. It’s a great choice for summer dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Let me know when you’re ready for the next recipe.

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