This Easy Honey Butter Chicken recipe is a sweet and savory treat that’s sure to please! Crispy chicken is covered in a sticky honey butter sauce, making every bite full of flavor.
Honestly, who can resist that tasty combo of honey and butter? I love serving it with rice or biscuits for a fun meal! It’s quick to whip up, making dinner a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, but you can use breasts if you prefer leaner meat. For a lighter meal, consider using tofu or a plant-based chicken substitute.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling salt levels. If you want to cut back on dairy, coconut oil or a good quality margarine can work well too.
Honey: While honey gives the best flavor, agave syrup or maple syrup can be good alternatives if you’re vegan or prefer a different sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder is a decent substitute—just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Golden?
Cooking chicken perfectly is crucial for this dish! Follow these steps to ensure the chicken is cooked well and stays juicy:
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear, which locks in moisture. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Once the chicken is in the pan, avoid flipping it too soon. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes without moving it to develop that golden color.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut a piece in half to see if it’s cooked through.
Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Honey Butter Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, totaling about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once you have your chicken ready, sprinkle some salt and pepper over it. This simple seasoning will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot skillet. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side for larger pieces. If your pieces are smaller, it may take about 6-8 minutes total. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Honey Butter Sauce:
Using the same skillet (and all those yummy bits left behind), turn the heat down to medium. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add the Sweetness:
Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and optional dried thyme. Allow this mixture to cook for 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce a bit, allowing it to coat your chicken beautifully.
5. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Toss the chicken gently in the honey butter sauce so each piece is nicely covered. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to warm everything through and let those flavors blend together.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the chicken is all coated and heated, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for that pop of color and flavor before serving!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious Easy Honey Butter Chicken is ready to eat! Serve it hot with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite sides. Enjoy every sweet and savory bite!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs for a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them, as breasts can dry out more quickly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the honey and soy sauce mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator for extra flavor. Just cook it right before serving for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the chicken.
