This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is a real treat! The chicken is coated in a sweet, sticky glaze that makes every bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s simple to whip up any night of the week!
I love that this dish is both sweet and savory. It pairs perfectly with rice or veggies, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little finger-lickin’ chicken? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier result, but breasts work well too. If you need a lighter option, you can use chicken tenders.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt. If you’re cooking for someone who’s lactose intolerant, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine instead.
Honey: Honey is key for that sweet glaze! If you’re vegan or avoiding sugar, try maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute. They will offer a similar sweetness.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Alternatively, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or even liquid aminos for a similar flavor!
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, lemon juice works great too!
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking the chicken to perfection can be challenging, but here are some simple tips:
- Pat dry: Make sure to pat your chicken dry before cooking. This helps it get a nice golden color and crispy edges.
- Temperature: Keep your skillet on medium heat. Too hot and the outside will burn before the inside cooks through; too low and it won’t sear correctly.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check that it’s no longer pink inside.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let your chicken rest a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken every time!
Easy Honey Butter Chicken with Sweet Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter, for frying
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for a slight tang)
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions, sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have this delicious honey butter chicken ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the chicken get a nice golden color when cooked. Then, season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil or 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Honey Butter Glaze:
Using the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Then, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring frequently until it thickens up a bit.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat it well with the sweet honey butter glaze. Heat everything together for another 1-2 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and nicely glazed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is combined and hot, remove from heat. If you’d like, garnish your honey butter chicken with some chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a touch of freshness and crunch. Serve it hot alongside steamed rice or your favorite sides.
This recipe is not only quick but also packs a delicious punch with its sweet and buttery flavors. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ About Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely beforehand. The best way to thaw chicken is in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. Just keep in mind that the flavor will slightly differ, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover honey butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the glaze has thickened too much.
Can This Recipe be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and make the glaze ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge and combine just before serving. Reheat the chicken in the skillet with the glaze until warmed through for the best results!
