This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is a winner! It’s juicy chicken coated in a sweet and buttery sauce that makes your taste buds dance. Pair it with rice or veggies for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite for their juiciness. You can also use chicken breasts if that’s what you have. For a twist, try using drumsticks or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Honey: Regular honey works perfectly here. If you want a different flavor, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar. Just know that different sweeteners may change the taste slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. If you prefer a lighter option, you could use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Soy Sauce: It’s optional, but a splash adds depth to the flavor. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos or skip it altogether for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and Tender?
To get tender chicken, start by seasoning it well. This helps to lock in flavor. Searing the chicken in butter before baking is also key; it adds flavor and helps keep moisture inside. Here’s how:
- Preheat and season: Always start with a preheated oven, and season your chicken with salt and pepper generously.
- Melt butter and sauté garlic: This infuses flavor right into the chicken quickly. Just be sure not to burn the garlic!
- Bake until cooked: Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C) ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
Pairing this dish with rice or steamed vegetables will balance the sweetness nicely. Enjoy!
Easy Honey Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for a slight savory depth)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for balance)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35 minutes in total, including 10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for baking. It’s quick and easy enough for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the chicken. This ensures even cooking and helps seal in the juices!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken thighs or breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step really enhances the flavor!
3. Make the Honey Butter Sauce:
In an oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:
Stir in the honey, soy sauce (if using), and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Mix everything together until well combined and bubbly. This sauce is what makes the chicken sweet and buttery!
5. Add Chicken to the Skillet:
Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet, making sure to spoon some of the delicious sauce over each piece. This helps the chicken soak up all that wonderful flavor!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures your chicken is juicy and fully cooked.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, spoon more sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely touch. Serve your honey butter chicken warm, and enjoy it with rice or steamed veggies!
This dish is not only delicious but also super easy to make—perfect for any night of the week! Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as breasts may cook a bit faster than thighs. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you want a different flavor, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the taste but will still give you that sweet flavor you love!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey butter sauce and season the chicken in advance. Store the chicken and sauce separately in the fridge, then bake it just before serving for the best results!
