This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is a tasty dish that brings together crispy chicken and a sweet, buttery sauce. It’s perfect for dinner and sure to please everyone!
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all that yummy sauce. You won’t want to share! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs add juiciness, but you can easily swap for breasts if preferred. If you’re in a hurry, cut chicken into smaller pieces for quicker cooking!
Honey: The star of the dish! If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider agave nectar or maple syrup. They give a similar sweetness, but may change the flavor slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is what I recommend for this recipe. However, if you’re watching your salt, use a reduced-sodium butter or olive oil for a lighter touch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings great flavor, but garlic powder could work in a pinch. About 1 teaspoon of powdered garlic equals a clove or two!
How Do You Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
For that perfect crispy exterior on your chicken, it’s all about the flour coating and cooking method. Here’s how:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry—this helps the flour stick better.
- Lightly coat the chicken in flour. Too much, and it’ll create a heavy crust that doesn’t crisp up.
- Cook in a hot pan with ample butter to create a nice sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this keeps the heat steady and allows the chicken to fry properly.
Easy Honey Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Honey Butter Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So in just about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Then, dust them lightly with flour. This gives your chicken a lovely, crispy coating when you cook it. Just make sure to shake off any excess flour!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the seasoned chicken. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Then, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice). Let this mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Combine and Glaze:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and make sure to coat it well with the sweet honey butter sauce. Give it an extra 1-2 minutes on the heat so all those flavors blend perfectly!
5. Final Touches:
To add a bit of spice, sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the top if you like a kick. Finish by garnishing your Honey Butter Chicken with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Honey Butter Chicken warm with steamed rice or your favorite side vegetables. Enjoy every bite of this delectable dish with family or friends!
FAQ for Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used in this recipe, but keep in mind they may cook faster than thighs, so adjust cooking time to prevent drying them out. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, agave nectar or maple syrup work great too! They’ll add a different flavor profile, but still provide that sweet element to the dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. This also allows the flavors to meld even more!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water or broth for moisture.
