This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is sweet, juicy, and super simple to whip up. Just chicken coated in a rich honey butter sauce that will make your taste buds dance!
Honestly, it feels like a restaurant dish but is ready in no time. I love serving it with rice to soak up all that tasty sauce. It’s a winner for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you’re a fan of breasts, you can use those too; just know they may dry out a bit more. For a fun twist, try using chicken tenders!
Honey: This is the star ingredient, bringing sweetness to the dish. If you want a different flavor, maple syrup can replace honey, giving a nice earthy taste. You can use agave syrup if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really adds depth, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Just use about 1/2 teaspoon per clove, but remember that fresh is always better if you can manage it!
Butter: I use unsalted butter to control the saltiness. You can substitute with ghee or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option. The butter adds richness that makes the sauce really special!
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Chicken?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be a little tricky, but here’s how I do it:
- First, make sure your chicken is dry. Pat it with paper towels to get rid of moisture so it can brown nicely.
- Heat your pan well before adding the oil. This helps achieve that golden color. A medium-high heat works best for this.
- Cook the chicken without moving it too much. Let it sear for about 5-6 minutes on one side before flipping. If you try to flip too early, it may stick!
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Following these tips will give you juicy, tender chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for slight tang)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be enjoying this delicious honey butter chicken in just 25 minutes—perfect for a quick yet tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting your chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it crisp up nicely. Next, season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Stir in Honey and Seasonings:
Add the honey and soy sauce to the skillet, along with the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice if you’re using it. Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly. This will create a luscious honey butter sauce that clings to the chicken.
5. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and gently coat it with the honey butter sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well-covered and delicious!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your honey butter chicken with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables to soak up that amazing sauce!
Enjoy your sweet and buttery chicken dinner!
FAQ About Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. The best methods to thaw are overnight in the refrigerator or using a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Once thawed, pat dry and proceed with the recipe as usual!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the amount of honey to 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup. Alternatively, you can add a bit more soy sauce to balance the sweetness and enhance the savory flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the honey butter sauce and cook the chicken in advance, up to a day ahead. Just allow it to cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
What Are the Best Sides to Serve with Honey Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad for a fresh balance to the sweet sauce!
