Honey Butter Chicken

Honey Butter Chicken is one of those comforting dishes that can brighten your weeknight dinners and impress your guests. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe when I was looking for something sweet and savory to serve during a casual family gathering. The combination of juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich, buttery honey garlic sauce is simply irresistible. It’s easy to whip up on a busy evening while still feeling special enough for a celebration. If you’re seeking a dish that offers both comfort and flavor, you’re in for a treat with this one!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are so many compelling reasons to give this Honey Butter Chicken a try. First and foremost, it’s a quick recipe that takes just a short time to prepare, meaning you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen after a long day. This dish is incredibly budget-friendly—using just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s packed with flavor and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s kid-approved! The sweetness of honey combined with the savory garlic makes it a hit for all ages.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution, meal prep idea, or something that feels special, this dish ticks all the boxes.

"Absolutely delicious! My kids went back for seconds, and it was so simple to make!”

Step-by-Step Overview

Making Honey Butter Chicken is a straightforward, enjoyable process that flows seamlessly from start to finish. You’ll begin by preparing the chicken, moving on to searing it until crispy, and then crafting a luscious honey garlic sauce. Finally, you’ll toss everything together and garnish for a beautiful presentation. It sounds simple because it is—perfect for both novice cooks and experienced home chefs looking to impress.

What You’ll Need

Gather these items to prepare your Honey Butter Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless skinless, cut into 2” pieces)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp flour (gluten-free if desired)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 3 garlic cloves (sliced thinly)
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 tbsp cold unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• Finely chopped parsley (for garnish)

If you have dietary restrictions, consider swapping the flour for a gluten-free option while ensuring an equivalent measurement.

Directions to Follow

1. Cut the chicken thighs into two-inch pieces.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until they are lightly coated.
3. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 8 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
5. Lower the heat and add the cold butter, stirring in the honey, soy sauce (or tamari), and rice vinegar. Mix until well combined and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and toss until it is thoroughly coated in the sauce.
7. Garnish with finely chopped parsley and serve hot.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Honey Butter Chicken is versatile, so there are plenty of enjoyable ways to serve it! Plate this dish with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Vegetables like steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad would also complement this meal beautifully. For a more casual dining experience, consider serving it in a wrap or sandwich style. Pair it with a light white wine or a fizzy lemonade for a refreshing twist.

How to Store and Reheat

Leftovers can be just as tasty! To store your Honey Butter Chicken, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. If you need to reheat, microwave individual portions until warmed through, or gently warm in a skillet over low heat to maintain that delightful sauce.

Tips to Make It Perfect

• Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; it helps create that perfect crispiness.
• For a bit of extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the soy sauce and rice vinegar for about 30 minutes before cooking.
• Keep the heat low when adding the cold butter to avoid splatter.

Recipe Variations

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are some delicious twists you might consider:

• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a kick.
• Herbaceous joy: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added freshness.
• Honey alternatives: You can substitute the honey with maple syrup for a different, but equally wonderful flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to prepare Honey Butter Chicken?

Preparation and cooking time combined takes about 30 minutes—making it a fantastic quick-meal option!

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind chicken breasts may require slightly less cooking time for optimal juiciness.

What can I serve with Honey Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs excellently with rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa for a healthy twist.

Print