This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is sweet, juicy, and oh-so-tasty! It’s made with tender chicken glazed in a simple honey butter mix that brings out all the flavors.
You won’t believe how quick this is to whip up! I love serving it with rice or veggies for a complete meal—perfect for busy weeknights! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Whether you choose chicken thighs or breasts, both work well. I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts are leaner. You can also use leftover cooked chicken to save time.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try coconut oil. It adds a hint of tropical flavor that pairs nicely with honey.
Honey: Local honey not only tastes great but also has health benefits. If you need an alternative, use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the dish with its aroma. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used—about 1 teaspoon should do, but fresh is always better!
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, begin by cutting it into even, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Heat your skillet thoroughly before adding the chicken; a hot skillet creates a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken undisturbed for the first few minutes to get a golden crust. Then, turn it occasionally until fully cooked.
Keep an eye on the chicken; overcooking can lead to dryness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect results. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Honey Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for a touch of umami)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick meal that can be ready in just under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. This adds flavor to your chicken right from the beginning!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Honey Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to burn it.
4. Adding Honey and Soy Sauce:
Now, it’s time to sweeten things up! Stir in the honey and, if you’re using it, the soy sauce. Let this mixture cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combining Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken back to the skillet. Toss it well in the honey butter sauce to coat it evenly. Cook everything together for another minute to make sure the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld nicely.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Take the skillet off the heat and garnish your dish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch. Serve it hot alongside steamed rice or your favorite vegetables!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Honey Butter Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Honey Butter Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely first! The best method is to refrigerate overnight or use the cold water method: place the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for about 1-2 hours until thawed. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. If you prefer a sugar option, brown sugar dissolved in a bit of water will also work well, albeit with a different flavor profile.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply omit the soy sauce or replace it with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This way, you can still enjoy the umami flavor without any gluten.
