This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken thighs are cooked in a sweet and buttery honey sauce that makes every bite delightful. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist that sweet glaze? I could pour it on everything! I love serving this dish with rice and steamed veggies—it’s such a simple and yummy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer using chicken thighs because they’re juicy and flavorful. However, you can use chicken breasts if that’s what you have. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep them tender!
Honey: The star of the dish! I love using local honey for its unique flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup can work, although the taste will change a bit.
Butter: For a rich flavor, I always use unsalted butter. If you need to dairy-free, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use garlic powder—about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Soy Sauce: This is optional, but it adds a nice depth. For a gluten-free option, coconut aminos is a great substitute!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken Evenly?
Cooking chicken evenly is key to getting a delicious result. First, make sure to pat the chicken dry; this helps it brown nicely. Season both sides well! Then, preheat your skillet for even cooking.
- Cook on medium heat; this prevents burning while ensuring it’s cooked through.
- Keep an eye on the color—golden brown is what you want.
- Use a meat thermometer; it’s safe to pull chicken when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
Easy Honey Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (to balance sweetness)
- Fresh parsley or chopped green onions, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 20 minutes total—about 10 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking. Quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely! Sprinkle both sides with salt and black pepper to season. Don’t be shy—seasoning is key to tasty chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once it’s melted and bubbly, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Make the Honey Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to low and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. After it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to bring out its flavor. Next, stir in the honey, soy sauce (if you’re using it), and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. It should look glossy and delicious!
4. Add the Chicken Back:
Return the chicken to the skillet, turning it so each piece is coated in that irresistible honey butter sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes just to warm through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color. Serve it hot alongside rice or your favorite steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious honey butter chicken dinner! It’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out. Aim for about 5-6 minutes per side, or check with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup can work, though it will alter the flavor slightly. You can also try using brown sugar combined with a little water for a similar sweetness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to recoat the chicken in the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! For a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or drizzle some sriracha over the chicken while cooking. Just adjust according to your spice preference!
