This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and savory. With juicy chicken cooked in a rich honey butter sauce, it’s sure to make your taste buds dance!
I love how quick this meal comes together. Just sauté the chicken, mix in that buttery goodness, and voilà! Dinner is served—my family can’t get enough of it! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts can work too, but they may be a little drier. For a lighter option, try using turkey breast.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute it with coconut oil or vegan butter, which works well too!
Honey: Honey gives that delightful sweetness. If you’re vegan or allergic, maple syrup is a great substitute. You’ll get a different but tasty flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a punch of flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder works in a pinch; just use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh is best for that savory kick!
How Do I Make the Sauce Perfectly Thick?
Getting the sauce just right is key to a great honey butter chicken! Here’s how you can achieve that thick and delicious texture:
- After melting the butter, let the garlic sauté gently until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Once you add the honey and soy sauce, watch as it thickens. Let it simmer; this allows the flavors to blend.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If it thickens too much, add a dash of water or chicken broth to thin it out slightly.
Following these steps will help you create a rich sauce that perfectly coats your chicken in that delightful honey butter goodness!
Easy Honey Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions for freshness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and delicious dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 10 minutes for cooking, making it a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This helps enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Preparing the Sauce:
Now, in the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt completely, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not burned—just enough to bring out that delicious flavor!
4. Mixing the Sauce:
Next, stir in the honey and soy sauce. Mix everything well and let it simmer gently for about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it; we want the sauce to thicken slightly but still be pourable.
5. Combining Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Toss the chicken pieces in the honey butter sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let it cook together for another 2 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped parsley or green onions on top for a fresh touch. Serve hot with rice or your favorite side dish and enjoy your delightful Easy Honey Butter Chicken!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your simple and tasty dinner!
FAQ About Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place it in the refrigerator overnight or quickly defrost it in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of honey. You can start with 2 tablespoons instead of 3 and adjust to taste as you mix in the sauce!
What Should I Serve with Honey Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
