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Sweet Honey Butter Chicken

Sweet Honey Butter Chicken

Sweet Honey Butter Chicken is a quick and easy dish featuring tender boneless chicken cooked to juicy perfection and glazed with a luscious honey butter sauce that is sweet, buttery, and slightly savory. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses simple pantry staples to deliver a comforting and flavorful meal that appeals to all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce for spice
  • Toasted nuts (almonds or pecans) for crunch

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper to help develop a flavorful crust and lock in moisture.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a bit of butter or oil. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice or vinegar. Simmer gently to combine flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
  4. Combine and Glaze: Return the chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over each piece, and let simmer together for 2-3 minutes to infuse flavor and create a glossy glaze.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finish with optional fresh herbs for color and flavor. Serve hot directly from the pan for best taste.

Notes

  • Use room temperature chicken to ensure even cooking and prevent dryness.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to allow each piece to brown properly.
  • Simmer the sauce gently and stir frequently to control thickness and avoid burning.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor instead of pre-minced.
  • Let chicken rest a minute after cooking to lock in the juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet honey butter chicken, quick chicken recipe, honey butter sauce, easy weeknight dinner, gluten free chicken