Name: Best Honey Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 1 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tbsp canola oil (or vegetable oil); 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/3 cup honey; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Optional Garnish: Sliced green onions or sesame seeds

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can wow your family and friends, you’ve stepped into the right place! The Best Honey Butter Chicken Recipe – Crispy & Sweet Chicken is your go-to solution for satisfying your cravings for something crispy, sweet, and full of flavor. With this straightforward recipe, you can whip up this delightful dish in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

This recipe strikes the right balance between sweet and savory, featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a crisp, seasoned crust and smothered in a luscious honey butter sauce. The beauty of Honey Butter Chicken lies not just in its tempting taste but also in its incredible simplicity. Anyone, regardless of their cooking experience, can bring this dish to life. It’s a meal that speaks of comfort yet holds the finesse to be presented on a dinner table with pride.

Whether you want to serve it on a bed of rice, mix it into a salad, or savor it as a standalone treat, it’s versatile enough to please any palate. The crispy texture of the chicken combined with the sweetness of the sauce creates a harmony that makes every bite an enjoyable experience. In the upcoming sections, we’re going to delve deeper into the alluring aspects of this dish, along with its preparation and serving suggestions. Get ready to make a meal that everyone will rave about!

Why You’ll Love This Best Honey Butter Chicken Recipe

Quick to prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes!
Flavor explosion: The perfect mix of sweet and savory.
Crispy & tender: The chicken is perfectly cooked with a delightful crunch.
Versatile: Great over rice, in salads, or enjoyed on its own.
Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing for your Honey Butter Chicken starts with ensuring your kitchen workspace is organized and ready to go. Gather all the ingredients, including chicken breast, flour, seasonings, honey, butter, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Having everything within reach will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Next, you’ll want to have the right tools on hand to ensure success. A large mixing bowl is essential for coating the chicken, while a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan will be perfect for frying. Make sure to use a spatula to easily turn over the chicken pieces without breaking them apart. A thermometer could be handy if you want to ensure your chicken reaches a perfect internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp canola oil (or vegetable oil)
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Garnish: Sliced green onions or sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Coat the Chicken

Begin by preparing the chicken cubes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will provide a beautiful, flavorful crust for your chicken. Once the spices are well blended, add your chicken pieces to the bowl. Gently toss until each piece is evenly coated with the flour mixture. Don’t forget to shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping!

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat your cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the canola oil and butter until they’re hot and bubbling. Carefully add the coated chicken to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring the pieces do not touch each other for even cooking. Fry the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and return the skillet to the stove. Melt the remaining unsalted butter in the skillet. Once melted, add in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens to a smooth consistency that resembles caramel. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the fried chicken back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly with the honey butter sauce. Allow the chicken to simmer in this delightful mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting it absorb all the sweetness and depth of flavor. Once everything is well combined, remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with optional sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork for a protein twist.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful veggie boost.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like paprika, or even a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick!

Cooking Notes

For the crispiest chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet while frying.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken – you can test it by dropping a small piece of the chicken to check if it sizzles.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
Pair with steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner plate.

Tips

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the appropriate internal temperature without overcooking.
Let the sauce simmer for a little longer if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 850mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

While it’s best to use fresh chicken breasts for optimal flavor and texture, you can thaw frozen chicken completely before following this recipe. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

What can I serve with Honey Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or a fresh green salad. It can also be served in wraps or as part of a rice bowl.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Best Honey Butter Chicken Recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that the whole family will love. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe has you covered with its ease and deliciousness. You can show off your cooking skills without investing hours in the kitchen. Remember to experiment with different variations and serve it with your favorite sides. Why not give it a try today? Your kitchen will soon echo with praises for your culinary prowess! Don’t forget to leave a comment below to share your thoughts or variations!