Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich, sweet, and buttery sauce. Honey Butter Chicken is a dish that’s not just easy to whip up but also a crowd-pleaser at any table. Whether you’re looking to impress during a weeknight dinner or want to put an effortless spin on a weekend family feast, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, it combines the savory richness of garlic with the luscious sweetness of honey, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
Honey Butter Chicken stands out because it’s quick, affordable, and utterly satisfying. The golden, crispy chicken paired with a silky sauce makes it irresistible, especially to kids who often turn their noses up at dinner. This dish can transform a mundane meal into a delightful experience, making it perfect for both busy weekdays and special occasions.
"I made this dish for my kids, and they couldn’t get enough! It was so simple, yet tasted like something from a restaurant. Definitely a keeper!"
How to make Honey Butter Chicken
Step-by-step overview
This recipe comes together in just a few straightforward steps. You’ll be coating chicken thighs, frying them until crispy, and then creating a rich honey-butter sauce that brings everything together. It’s not just about cooking; it’s about enjoying the process and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Honey Butter Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2” pieces
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 tbsp cold unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- Fresh parsley for garnish, finely chopped
Feel free to swap the avocado oil with olive oil if that’s what you have on hand. This recipe is quite forgiving, and substitutions can lead to equally delicious outcomes.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss in the chicken pieces until well coated.
- Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 8 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Add the sliced garlic to the hot skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Lower the heat and add the cold butter, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the skillet. Stir until well combined and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until completely coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
How to serve Honey Butter Chicken
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your Honey Butter Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside roasted vegetables to soak up that incredible sauce. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of sriracha can add a spicy kick that perfectly complements the sweet sauce.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but be cautious to avoid overheating, which can dry out the chicken. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
For the crispiest chicken, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken pieces—but avoid overcrowding to keep that golden crust. Also, using cold butter in the sauce prevents it from separating and helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Lastly, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to coat the chicken evenly.
Variations
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to explore different flavor profiles! Try adding a splash of citrus—like lemon or orange juice—into the sauce for a zesty kick. If you’re a fan of spice, tossing in some crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Another idea is to replace the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Common questions
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for Honey Butter Chicken?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes. It’s a quick meal that can be ready in just under 35 minutes.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs; just note that they might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them.
How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?
Coating the chicken in cornstarch before cooking helps to lock in moisture, so don’t skip that step. Cooking it until golden brown also helps in achieving a juicy interior.
With these insights and tips, your Honey Butter Chicken is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
PrintHoney Butter Chicken
Tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich, sweet, and buttery sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2” pieces
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 tbsp cold unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- Fresh parsley for garnish, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss in the chicken pieces until well coated.
- Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 8 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Add the sliced garlic to the hot skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Lower the heat and add the cold butter, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the skillet. Stir until well combined and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until completely coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For the crispiest chicken, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken pieces. Using cold butter in the sauce prevents it from separating.