This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is sweet and tasty, featuring juicy chicken pieces coated in a buttery honey sauce. It’s perfect for a quick family dinner!
I love how this dish is simple to whip up in no time. Just mix the honey with butter, toss in the chicken, and bake! Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll be happy everyone loves it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite for this dish because they’re juicy and flavorful. You can use breasts if you prefer a leaner option, just be cautious not to overcook them.
Honey: This adds a delightful sweetness. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, pure maple syrup or agave nectar works beautifully too. Just adjust the quantity to taste.
Butter: I usually go for unsalted butter for better control of the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can be a great substitute without losing richness.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami depth. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos, which works just as well in flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste but if you don’t have any, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use about 1/4 teaspoon.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
To keep your chicken flavorful and moist, focus on the cooking technique. Start by searing the chicken for a nice golden crust. Here’s how:
- Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet until hot but not smoking. This helps to lock in the juices.
- Season both sides of the chicken well.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side. Don’t move the chicken around; let it develop that golden color!
- Transfer it quickly to the oven to finish cooking. This method promotes an evenly cooked chicken with a tender bite.
Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C). Happy cooking!
Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for slight tang)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple honey butter chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes to bake, making the total time around 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken will cook evenly once it goes in the oven.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the oven is heating, take the chicken pieces and generously season them with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor to the chicken!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, until they are golden brown. Don’t skip this step, as it locks in the flavors!
4. Make the Honey Butter Sauce:
While the chicken is searing, take a small bowl and whisk together the melted butter, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar (if you’re using it). This will create a deliciously sweet and savory sauce.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Once the chicken is browned, pour the honey butter sauce over the chicken in the skillet, making sure to coat all the pieces well.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. You can check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve and Garnish:
When the chicken is ready, take it out of the oven and spoon some extra sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the honey butter chicken hot with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone!
Enjoy your easy and delicious honey butter chicken!
FAQ for Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken first! To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftover Honey Butter Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Proteins?
Absolutely! This honey butter sauce works well with pork chops or shrimp too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; shrimp cook quickly, usually in about 5-7 minutes, while pork may take slightly longer than chicken.
What Should I Serve with Honey Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
