This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is a sweet and savory delight! It’s made with crispy chicken coated in a sticky honey butter sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer chicken thighs for their juiciness, but you can easily use chicken breasts if you like. Just remember that breasts may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them!
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the chicken a nice coating. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, cornstarch is a great substitute. It gives a nice crunch too!
Honey: This is the star of the show. For a different flavor, try maple syrup or agave syrup, but adjust the sweetness to your taste. You could also use a sugar-free alternative if that’s what you prefer.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for better control over saltiness. If you want a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Crispy?
Getting the chicken crispy is all about the frying technique! Start with dry chicken; it helps the coating stick better. When dredging, make sure to shake off any excess flour. This prevents clumping and keeps it from becoming gummy during cooking.
- Heat the oil properly—it should shimmer but not smoke.
- Cook the chicken undisturbed for a few minutes on each side until golden, then flip. This creates a nice crust.
- If you have thicker pieces, consider covering the pan briefly to help them cook through without burning.
Easy Honey Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for cooking, making a total of around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it get crispy! In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper. Next, dredge each piece of chicken lightly in the flour mixture until it’s well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through. Make sure to remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside when done.
3. Make the Honey Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to low and add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Combine Sauce Ingredients:
Next, stir in the honey and soy sauce, mixing everything well to bring it together. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Using a spoon, generously coat the chicken with the honey butter sauce. Cook for another minute so that the chicken can absorb all those delicious flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat, and if you like, garnish your chicken with some chopped parsley or sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Serve the honey butter chicken immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
Enjoy your effortlessly delicious honey butter chicken dinner! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat it dry before dredging to achieve a crispy texture.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you want a different flavor, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup. Just note that the sweetness level may vary, so taste the sauce and adjust accordingly. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute designed for cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the stove over low heat for best results to keep it from drying out. You can add a splash of water or extra sauce to help maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the chicken, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the chicken and drizzle it with the warm sauce for a delicious meal without the hassle!
