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Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Breast - Easy, Juicy, and Flavor-Packed

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 oz each)
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional but brightens the dish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
  2. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, vinegar, Dijon, paprika, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  3. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they’re very thick, pound them to an even thickness (about 3/4–1 inch) so they cook evenly. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Coat and arrange: Place the chicken in the baking dish. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the top, turning the chicken to coat. Spoon a little sauce under each piece so the bottoms get flavor too.
  5. Bake: Bake for 16–22 minutes, depending on thickness. Start checking at 16 minutes. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Baste for shine: Halfway through baking, spoon sauce from the pan over the chicken. Do it again when it comes out of the oven for extra gloss and flavor.
  7. Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle so the meat stays tender.
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley or green onions. Add a squeeze of lemon if you like. Serve with rice, quinoa, steamed greens, or roasted vegetables.