Description
Honey Garlic Chicken with Asparagus
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp honey
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Season the chicken: Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Remove from skillet and set aside.
Prepare the honey garlic sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Stir and simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Cook the asparagus: Add the asparagus to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Serve: Plate the chicken with asparagus, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 290 kcal per serving
#HoneyGarlicChicken #AsparagusLove #HealthyDinner #EasyWeeknightMeals #ChickenRecipes
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof meal. First, pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel; this ensures a proper sear. Season generously. When searing the chicken, resist the urge to move it for the first few minutes to develop a golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F. For the sauce, keep the heat at medium-low after adding the garlic to prevent burning. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant before adding the honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let it bubble gently to thicken slightly. Add the asparagus, rolling it in the sauce to coat evenly. Cook just until bright green and tender-crisp.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with several sides. For a classic combination, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, pair it with zucchini noodles. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the savory-sweet flavors perfectly. Garnish with not only fresh parsley but also sesame seeds or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
How-to Summary
In short: Season and sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove. In the same pan, make a quick sauce with garlic, honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Add asparagus to the sauce and cook until tender. Return chicken to the pan, coat with sauce, warm through, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Bone-in or boneless thighs work well. Adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
How do I properly trim asparagus? Hold one spear at each end and bend it; it will snap naturally at the point where the tough woody part ends. Use that spear as a guide to trim the rest of the bunch with a knife.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can whisk the sauce ingredients (honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice) together and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir this into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional minute.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce? For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Coconut aminos are a great soy-free alternative, though they are slightly sweeter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken, as this steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust. Do not burn the garlic when making the sauce; cook it just until fragrant. Overcooking the asparagus will make it mushy; aim for a tender-crisp texture. Finally, ensure your honey is fresh and runny for easy mixing into the sauce.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. It masterfully combines savory, sweet, and fresh elements in one pan, resulting in minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Perfect for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests, this recipe is sure to become a reliable favorite in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results!