This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is a sweet and savory delight! Juicy chicken is cooked to perfection and glazed with a sticky honey butter sauce that will have your taste buds singing.
I love how quick and simple this dish is to whip up on busy nights. Plus, the kids will devour it. Who doesn’t love a little sweetness with their chicken? 🍯🐔
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, chicken breasts work just fine too; just be careful not to overcook them to keep them tender.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and allows you to control the salt in the dish. You can use salted butter if that’s what you have, but reduce the added salt accordingly.
Honey: This is what gives the dish its sweet touch. If you want a lower sugar option, try using agave nectar or maple syrup as a substitute. It’s not quite the same but still delicious!
Soy Sauce: This optional ingredient adds a nice umami flavor. If you’re avoiding soy, you can use coconut aminos or skip it altogether for a sweeter dish.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken to perfection is crucial. Here’s how to do it without a hitch:
- Always bring your chicken to room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. You want an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t rush—let it cook on medium heat. This helps to get a nice golden crust.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy as the juices redistribute.
With these tips, you’ll ensure your Easy Honey Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time!
Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes. Quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, take your chicken and sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken while cooking.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable or olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You can check that it’s done if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). After it’s cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Honey Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt, and then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Create the Glaze:
Next, stir in the honey and soy sauce if you’re using it. Mix everything together well and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, just enough to thicken slightly.
5. Glaze the Chicken:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Turn the pieces in the honey butter sauce until they are evenly coated and let them cook together for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your honey butter chicken with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch. Serve it warm, and enjoy with steamed rice or your favorite side veggies!
This dish is not just easy to make, it’s also packed with flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ about Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw it completely first! It’s best to thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also thaw it quickly by placing the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute, agave nectar or maple syrup work well in this recipe and give a similar sweetness. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the honey butter sauce. You could also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who want an extra kick!
