Honey Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both sweet and savory with a hint of spice, this Honey Butter Chicken recipe is just what you need. It’s the perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich honey butter sauce that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Butter Chicken Recipe

This Honey Butter Chicken recipe is incredibly versatile and packed with flavor. The crispy, seasoned chicken paired with a velvety honey butter sauce creates a delightful balance that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s easily adaptable—whether you want to make it spicier, sweeter, or even gluten-free, this recipe has got you covered.

Ingredients for Honey Butter Chicken

To make this mouthwatering Honey Butter Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breasts, diced – about 450 grams; boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour – approximately 60 grams; for coating the chicken, ensuring a crisp exterior.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – adds a robust flavor to the chicken.
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper – just a touch of heat to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
• ½ tsp onion powder – enhances the savory depth of the dish.
• 1 tsp salt – to season the chicken.
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper – for a subtle spice.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter – for frying the chicken; unsalted butter lets you control the seasoning.
• 1 tbsp canola oil – or any vegetable oil, which helps in achieving that golden-brown crust.
• 1 tbsp green onions, sliced – for garnishing and adding a fresh, mild onion flavor.

For the Honey Butter Sauce:

• 5 tbsps butter – about 70 grams, room temperature; creates a rich, smooth sauce.
• ½ cup honey – 120 ml; the star ingredient that adds natural sweetness.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce – 15 ml; adds umami and balances the sweetness.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – 15 ml; provides a slight tang to cut through the richness.
• ¼ tsp salt – to taste; enhances all the flavors.
• ⅛ tsp ground black pepper – just a pinch; for a subtle kick.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan – essential for even cooking and achieving a perfect sear on the chicken.
• Mixing bowls – one large for dredging the chicken and another for preparing the sauce.
• Tongs or spatula – for turning the chicken pieces while cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure the correct balance of ingredients.
• Serving platter – for presenting the dish.

How to Make Honey Butter Chicken

1. Coat and Cook the Chicken

Start by preparing the seasoned flour mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour with ½ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, ½ tsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and ¼ tsp ground black pepper. Toss the diced 1 lb chicken breasts into this mixture, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.

Next, heat 1 tbsp of unsalted butter and 1 tbsp of canola oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, arrange the coated chicken pieces in the skillet in a single layer. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

2. Prepare the Honey Butter Sauce

Without cleaning the skillet (those browned bits add flavor), reduce the heat to low. Add 5 tbsps of butter to the pan. Once melted, stir in ½ cup of honey, 1 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar, ¼ tsp of salt, and ⅛ tsp of ground black pepper. Continue stirring the sauce over low heat until it reaches a smooth, caramel-like consistency, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, making sure each piece is coated generously with the honey butter sauce. Stir to combine, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce’s flavors. Once coated, turn off the heat and let the chicken cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

3. Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve this Honey Butter Chicken with steamed white rice or fluffy mashed potatoes. The mildness of the rice complements the rich and flavorful chicken, while sautéed green beans or a simple salad adds a nice crunch and a fresh contrast to the dish. Garnish with sliced green onions for a burst of color and a mild, fresh onion flavor that ties the whole dish together.

Expert Tips for Perfect Honey Butter Chicken

• Even Coating: Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoned flour mixture. This not only helps achieve a crispy crust but also ensures the chicken is well-seasoned.
• Temperature Control: Keep an eye on the heat while frying the chicken. If the pan is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before it cooks through. If it’s too low, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Sauce Consistency: The honey butter sauce should be thick enough to coat the chicken but not too thick that it becomes sticky. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil’s temperature, leading to soggy chicken instead of a crisp exterior.
• Using Cold Butter: Ensure the butter for the sauce is at room temperature. Cold butter takes longer to melt and can lead to a greasy sauce.
• Not Letting the Sauce Thicken: Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer until it reaches a smooth, caramel-like consistency. This ensures the sauce clings to the chicken and enhances the flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicier Version: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper in the flour mixture or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey butter sauce.
• Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the soy sauce is also gluten-free.
• Honey Substitutes: If you’re out of honey, maple syrup can be a good alternative, though it will slightly change the flavor profile.

Storing and Reheating Honey Butter Chicken

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce. Cover and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, though they might take a bit longer to cook.

Can I make the honey butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to use, gently reheat it in a skillet before adding the chicken.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is generally kid-friendly. You can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper if you’re concerned about the spice level.

Can I freeze Honey Butter Chicken?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken coated in sauce. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

This Honey Butter Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience! If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes.

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