Name: Honey Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup honey; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp light soy sauce

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This Honey Butter Chicken recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, sticky honey butter sauce. It's a quick and satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish combines the sweetness of honey with the richness of butter, creating a mouthwatering glaze that clings to every piece of chicken. It's quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and the ingredients are simple and likely already in my pantry.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too.
All-purpose flour: For coating the chicken and giving it a light, crispy texture.
Olive oil: I prefer extra virgin olive oil, but avocado, canola, or vegetable oil are great alternatives.
Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor; sea salt or flaky salt can be used as substitutes.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the dish.

For the honey butter sauce:

Unsalted butter: I always opt for real butter to achieve the best flavor.
Honey: Provides the sweet component of the sauce.
Fresh garlic: I mince it finely for a robust, aromatic flavor.
Light soy sauce: Adds a savory umami depth that balances the sweetness.

Directions

I start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and patting them dry.
In a bowl, I mix the flour, kosher salt, and black pepper.
I toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until they're well coated.
In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
I add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking them until they're golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
While the chicken cooks, I prepare the sauce by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
I add the honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce to the melted butter, stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
Once the chicken is cooked, I pour the honey butter sauce over the chicken in the skillet, tossing to coat each piece evenly.
I let it simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
I serve the honey butter chicken hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is around 20 minutes, making the total time to prepare this dish approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Kick: I add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the honey butter sauce for some heat.
Citrus Twist: A squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice in the sauce adds a bright, tangy flavor.
Herb Infusion: I sometimes incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the sauce for an aromatic touch.
Nutty Flavor: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top adds a delightful crunch and nutty taste.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or I microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. I ensure they are cut into uniform pieces to cook evenly and avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

What sides pair well with honey butter chicken?

I often serve this dish with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to complement the rich flavors.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the honey butter sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. I reheat it gently before tossing it with the cooked chicken.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. I cook the chicken and store it separately from the sauce. When ready to eat, I reheat both and combine them for a fresh-tasting meal.

Conclusion

Honey Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Its quick preparation and versatile nature make it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Whether I'm cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish never fails to impress.

Honey Butter Chicken

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

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Description

Honey Butter Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich, sweet-savory honey butter sauce. Perfect for a fast weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry.
In a bowl, mix the flour, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until well coated.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce to the melted butter, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
Pour the honey butter sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.