Honey Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms: A Sweet-Savory Skillet Favorite
Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a sticky honey garlic glaze—ready in minutes and packed with flavor
Introduction: A Weeknight Wonder
When you need dinner on the table fast but still want something satisfying and flavorful, this Honey Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms is a go-to recipe. It’s simple, quick, and made with everyday ingredients—but the result is restaurant-worthy. The chicken is golden and juicy, the mushrooms add depth, and the honey garlic glaze ties it all together with a sweet-savory finish.
Whether you serve it over fluffy rice, toss it with noodles, or spoon it into lettuce wraps, this dish is endlessly adaptable and always delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or even meal prep.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so flavorful and easy:
Protein:
- Chicken breasts (2, sliced thin)
Lean and quick-cooking—slicing thin ensures fast, even browning.
Optional: Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Vegetables:
- Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced)
Earthy and meaty—white button or cremini work great.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to allow mushrooms to brown.
Aromatics:
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Bold and fragrant—essential for the sauce.
Optional: Add ginger for extra zing.
Sauce:
- Honey (2 tbsp)
Adds sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze. - Soy sauce (2 tbsp)
Adds umami and saltiness—use low-sodium if preferred.
Optional: Add a splash of rice vinegar or sesame oil for depth.
Fats:
- Olive oil (1 tbsp)
For pan-frying the chicken. - Butter (1 tbsp)
Adds richness and helps carry the garlic flavor.
Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the sauce.
Tip: Season chicken just before cooking to avoid drawing out moisture.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs or spatula
- Serving dish
Optional: Use a cast iron skillet for extra browning.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Slice chicken breasts thinly across the grain.
Season with salt and pepper.
Tip: Pat chicken dry for better browning.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken slices in a single layer.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
Remove and set aside.
Optional: Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms
Add butter to the same skillet.
Once melted, add minced garlic.
Sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add sliced mushrooms.
Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and browned.
Tip: Let mushrooms sit undisturbed for a minute to develop colors
Step 4: Make the Glaze
Return chicken to the pan.
Stir in honey and soy sauce.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes, until everything is coated and the sauce is slightly thickened.
Optional: Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) for a thicker glaze.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot over:
- Steamed rice
- Garlic noodles
- Mashed potatoes
- Cauliflower rice
Garnish with:
- Chopped parsley
- Sesame seeds
- Chili flakes
Presentation Tip: Serve in a shallow bowl with sauce drizzled over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Meal prep
- Casual entertaining
- Quick lunch bowls
Pair with:
- Stir-fried veggies
- Asian slaw
- Cucumber salad
- Miso soup
Yields:
- 2–3 servings
Tip: Double the recipe for leftovers or family-style meals.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:
Spicy Kick
Add sriracha or chili paste to the glaze.
Citrus Twist
Add lemon or orange zest for brightness.
Veggie Boost
Add broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers.
Vegan Version
Use tofu or tempeh and plant-based butter.
Garlic Lover
Roast garlic cloves and mash into the sauce.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Cook chicken and mushrooms up to 2 days in advance. Reheat with sauce.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently.
Tip: Store sauce separately to preserve texture
Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 3)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~14g
- Fat: ~18g
- Sugar: ~10g
- Sodium: ~480mg
- Fiber: ~1g
This dish is:
- Quick and flavorful
- Sweet and savory
- Easy to customize
- Perfect for any night
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a flavor-packed skillet meal that feels comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, it’s a recipe that delivers every time.