Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a mouthwatering dish that's both sweet and savory? This Honey Butter Chicken recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little flair to their cooking routine. With tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich honey butter sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about making this delectable dish, including ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, and tips to avoid common cooking pitfalls. Don’t miss out on this culinary experience—read on and get ready to make your new favorite dinner!

What is Honey Butter Chicken?
Honey Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the rich sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of chicken, butter, and a hint of spice. The chicken is first seasoned and lightly coated with flour, then pan-fried until golden brown. It's then tossed in a luscious sauce made from butter, honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar, creating a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients List for Honey Butter Chicken
Before you start cooking, it's essential to gather all your ingredients. Here's what you'll need to make this delicious Honey Butter Chicken:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, diced: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. Dice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: This helps create a light coating on the chicken, giving it a crispy exterior.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the honey butter sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Provides a hint of heat to balance the sweetness of the honey.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth of flavor to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Used for frying the chicken; butter adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon canola oil, or any vegetable oil: Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds a crisp texture to the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon green onions, sliced: For garnish, adding a fresh, mild onion flavor.
For the Honey Butter Sauce:
- 5 tbsps butter, room temperature: The base of the sauce, providing a rich, creamy texture.
- ½ cup honey: The star of the sauce, adding sweetness and a beautiful glaze.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor that balances the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Provides a slight tang, enhancing the sauce's complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Seasons the sauce, making sure it's perfectly balanced.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that cuts through the sweetness.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about cooking is that you can tailor recipes to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try with this Honey Butter Chicken recipe:
- Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great substitute. They are juicier and have a richer flavor. Simply follow the same steps, but adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. You can also use cornstarch as a coating for an even crispier texture.
- Spicy Honey Butter Chicken: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey butter sauce for an extra kick.
- Honey Garlic Butter Sauce: If you're a garlic lover, add 2-3 minced garlic cloves to the sauce for a garlicky twist on the classic honey butter flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian version of this dish. The honey butter sauce pairs wonderfully with both tofu and cauliflower.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Honey Butter Chicken masterpiece:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Mix the Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts to the bowl and toss them in the seasoned flour mixture until each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter and canola oil over medium-high heat. The oil prevents the butter from burning and helps create a nice golden crust on the chicken.
- Pan-Fry the Chicken: Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, add the 5 tablespoons of room temperature butter. Allow it to melt over medium heat.
- Add the Honey: Once the butter has melted, stir in the honey. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate the Soy Sauce and Vinegar: Add the soy sauce and apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Stir the sauce continuously for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Season the Sauce: Add the salt and ground black pepper to the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return the Chicken to the Pan: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the honey butter sauce. Toss the chicken in the sauce until each piece is evenly coated.
- Simmer: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together and the chicken absorbs some of the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top of the chicken for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Serve: Serve the Honey Butter Chicken hot, with your favorite sides such as steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this Honey Butter Chicken recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that could affect the outcome. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This can cause the chicken to steam rather than fry, leading to a less crispy texture. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
- Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before finishing the dish. Depending on your taste, you may want to adjust the salt, pepper, or sweetness of the sauce.
- Cooking at Too High a Temperature: Be careful not to cook the chicken on too high a heat, as this can cause the butter to burn, giving the dish a bitter flavor. Medium to medium-high heat is perfect for achieving a golden crust without burning the butter.
- Skipping the Vinegar: The apple cider vinegar is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the honey. Don’t skip it! It adds a necessary tang that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving and presenting your Honey Butter Chicken in an appealing way can make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes:
How to Serve Honey Butter Chicken
- Over Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with the sweet and savory sauce, providing a comforting, hearty meal.
- Alongside Vegetables: Add a side of roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. The vegetables will add color and a healthy balance to the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Honey Butter Chicken
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: In addition to green onions, you can garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
- Use a Large Serving Platter: Arrange the chicken pieces neatly on a large serving platter, drizzling extra sauce over the top. This makes for an impressive presentation if you’re serving guests.
- Add a Citrus Twist: Serve the chicken with lemon or lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of citrus juice before eating can brighten the dish and add another layer of flavor.
Honey Butter Chicken Recipe Tips
To ensure your Honey Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few additional tips:
- Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before making the sauce. This helps it melt evenly and incorporate smoothly into the sauce.
- Honey Quality: Use good-quality honey for the best flavor. The honey is a prominent flavor in this dish, so choosing a high-quality variety can make a big difference.
- Prep Ahead: You can dice the chicken and prepare the seasoned flour mixture ahead of time. This can make the cooking process quicker and easier, especially on busy weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They are juicier and have a richer flavor, but may require a longer cooking time.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free.
Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
A: To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the flour mixture or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey butter sauce.
Q: What sides go well with Honey Butter Chicken?
A: Steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables are excellent sides for Honey Butter Chicken.
Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the honey butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove before adding the cooked chicken.
Conclusion
Honey Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a harmonious way. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With tender chicken coated in a luscious honey butter sauce, every bite is a perfect blend of sweetness, richness, and spice. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can confidently prepare a meal that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, get into the kitchen, and create a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
PrintHoney Butter Chicken Recipe
Honey Butter Chicken recipe is a delightful dish where diced chicken breasts are coated in seasoned flour and pan-fried to golden perfection. The chicken is then smothered in a rich honey butter sauce made with butter, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of black pepper. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken:
- ½ 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, diced
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp canola oil (or any vegetable oil)
- 1 tbsp green onions, sliced
- Honey Butter Sauce:
- 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
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat diced chicken in the flour mixture.
- Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt 5 tbsps of butter.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Serve over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to taste for more or less spice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 550mg
Leave a Reply