Can I make honey butter chicken ahead of time?

Yes, honey butter chicken can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2–3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container once it cools.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Chicken breasts are commonly used for a leaner and milder flavor, but boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great too. Thighs offer a juicier texture and richer taste.

Is honey butter chicken spicy?

It has a mild kick from the cayenne pepper, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can omit or adjust the cayenne to control the heat level based on your preference.

What can I serve with honey butter chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, sautéed green beans, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. It’s also delicious with roasted vegetables or fresh biscuits.

Honey Butter Chicken

Name: Honey Butter Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp canola oil (or any light oil); 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce); 1/4 cup honey; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp apple cider vinegar; Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Description

Sweet, savory, and perfectly crisp, this easy honey butter chicken is the ideal quick weeknight dinner for beginners—ready in 30 minutes or less with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp canola oil (or any light oil)
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce)
1/4 cup honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Coat the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated, shaking off any excess flour.
Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon each of butter and canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the floured chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear on each side for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Make the Honey Butter Sauce: Reduce the skillet to low heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly into a smooth, caramel-like glaze.
Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat thoroughly in the sauce. Let it simmer together for a minute or two before removing from heat. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving dish and garnish with green onions if desired. Serve immediately with rice or your favorite side dish.

Notes

To check if chicken is cooked, ensure it’s golden on the outside and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature should reach 165°F). For extra crispy results, avoid crowding the pan and cook in batches if needed. You can substitute maple syrup for honey or use tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 503
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 1225mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 118mg