Honey Butter Chicken

Sweet, sticky, and bursting with flavor, this Honey Butter Chicken is an easy weeknight dinner that will be on the table in under 30 minutes! Perfect for family meals or casual gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken with a delightful honey butter glaze that everyone will love. It’s not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to pair with various sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of honey, butter, and spices creates a savory-sweet experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in wraps, or alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
• Easy Cleanup: One pan is all you need, minimizing the mess in your kitchen after cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand can make preparing Honey Butter Chicken a breeze. Gather these essential items before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and allows for easy flipping of chicken pieces.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in your honey butter sauce.
• Tongs: These make it simple to turn chicken pieces without losing any of that delicious glaze.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting surface is essential for safely chopping your chicken.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ tsp garlic powder
– ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
– ½ tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– ¼ tsp ground black pepper
– 1 lb chicken breasts, (cut into 1 inch pieces)
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tbsp canola oil, (or any light oil)
– 1 tbsp green onions, (sliced)
– 5 tbsps butter, (room temperature)
– ½ cup honey
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– ¼ tsp salt
– ⅛ tsp ground black pepper

How to Make Honey Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken. In a bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until evenly coated.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the canola oil and unsalted butter. Once melted and hot, carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the skillet.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken for about 6–8 minutes until golden brown. Use tongs to flip them halfway through so they cook evenly. Once fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Add room temperature butter to melt. Stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Gently toss it in the honey butter sauce until everything is well coated. Allow it to cook together for an additional 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious Honey Butter Chicken with your favorite side dishes!

How to Serve Honey Butter Chicken

Honey Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, there are plenty of serving suggestions to explore.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the Honey Butter Chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the sweet sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. This adds color and nutrition to your plate.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create delicious Honey Butter Chicken tacos. Top them with fresh salsa, avocado, or shredded lettuce for a fun twist.

As a Salad Topping

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to a mixed green salad. Drizzle with extra honey butter sauce for a tasty dressing.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The buttery flavor of both dishes complements each other nicely.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Honey Butter Chicken

To make your Honey Butter Chicken truly outstanding, consider these simple tips.

• Choose the right chicken: Opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking and tender bites.
• Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain moisture.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding your favorite spices to customize the flavor profile further.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy this dish fresh off the stove for the best taste and texture.
• Garnish nicely: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top before serving for added freshness and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Butter Chicken

When planning a meal around Honey Butter Chicken, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover honey butter sauce.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with rich flavors and adds a seasonal touch.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies provides a nutritious contrast to the hearty chicken.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: This side offers earthy flavors that complement the sweetness of the dish.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness works harmoniously with Honey Butter Chicken’s flavors.
7. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad refreshes your palate after each delicious bite.
8. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese makes for a comforting side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Honey Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that can be made quickly. However, it’s easy to make mistakes along the way.

• Incorrect Flour Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can affect the coating. Always measure accurately for the best results.
• Overcooking Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for a golden-brown color and check doneness with a meat thermometer.
• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can cut down on flavor. Even a short 15-minute soak in the marinade yields better taste!
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t skip on salt and spices; they enhance the overall flavor of Honey Butter Chicken.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature butter mixes better with honey. Cold butter can lead to clumps; let it sit out for a bit before mixing.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Honey Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Butter Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for optimal freshness.
• It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Honey Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Honey Butter Chicken.

What is Honey Butter Chicken?

Honey Butter Chicken is a sweet and savory dish made with tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful honey butter sauce.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking throughout.

How do I customize my Honey Butter Chicken?

Feel free to add spices like paprika or herbs like thyme for extra flavor. You could also toss in vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli.

Is Honey Butter Chicken healthy?

While it’s delicious, moderation is key! This dish does contain sugar and butter, so enjoy it as an occasional treat within a balanced diet.

What should I serve with Honey Butter Chicken?

Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Final Thoughts

Honey Butter Chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful. Its sweetness combined with savory notes makes it universally appealing. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite spices or side dishes. Give it a try tonight!