Honey Butter Chicken Recipe

A quick, sweet, and savory chicken dish made with honey and butter.

This Honey Butter Chicken is simple and tasty. It cooks fast and uses few ingredients. If you like quick chicken meals, you might also enjoy this chicken lo mein recipe as a side.

Why This Recipe Works

The cornstarch and flour make the chicken crisp. Browning the chicken adds flavor. The cold butter melts slowly and makes a smooth, rich sauce. Honey adds sweetness and rice vinegar gives a little tang. The result is sticky, shiny, and full of taste.

Why you should try this recipe

It cooks quickly. The flavors are simple and familiar. You can make it with easy ingredients from the store. Kids and adults usually like the sweet and savory mix. It also pairs well with rice or noodles.

How to make Honey Butter Chicken

Follow the steps below and use a hot pan for a good sear. For a full meal, serve with easy chicken lo mein or steamed rice.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless skinless, cut into 2” pieces)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp flour (you can use Bob’s gluten free 1 to 1)
• 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
• Garnish: finely chopped parsley

Equipments Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until they are lightly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 8 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Ensure each piece is well-seared for that perfect crunch. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Add the Garlic: After the chicken is crispy, add the sliced garlic to the pan. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Honey Butter Sauce: Lower the heat and add the cold butter to the pan. Stir in the water, honey, soy sauce (or tamari), and rice vinegar. Toss the chicken in the sauce until it’s fully coated and the honey butter sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve: Garnish with finely chopped parsley and serve hot.

How to serve Honey Butter Chicken

Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or with a green salad. Sprinkle more parsley for color. Offer extra soy sauce or hot sauce on the side if you like more flavor.

How to store Honey Butter Chicken

Cool the chicken to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the sauce from breaking. Do not freeze with the sauce; freeze plain cooked chicken pieces for up to 2 months and add the sauce after thawing.

Tips & Tricks

• Pat chicken dry before coating to get a better crisp.
• Use a hot pan and do not crowd the skillet. Cook in batches if needed.
• Add sauce off high heat to avoid burning the honey.
• For a sweet-savory balance, taste and adjust honey or vinegar.
• Try a light crunch by broiling 1 minute after saucing (watch closely). For a sweet dinner idea, pair with soft peanut butter cookies for dessert.

Variations & Substitutions

• Use chicken breasts instead of thighs; watch cook time to avoid dryness.
• Swap honey for maple syrup for a different note.
• Use coconut aminos for a gluten-free, lower-sodium option.
• Add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Make it in the oven: sear chicken then finish in a 400°F oven for 8–10 minutes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Thaw fully before cutting and coating. Cook time may change with colder chicken.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Warm gently and toss with hot cooked chicken before serving.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: No. It is sweet and savory. Add chili flakes or hot sauce if you want heat.

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Butter gives the best taste. Margarine will work but the flavor will change.

Conclusion

For another take on this dish, see Honey Butter Chicken | Don’t Go Bacon My Heart for more ideas. You can also watch a video and try slightly different steps at Honey Butter Chicken Recipes with Video ⋆ Real Housemoms.

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