Sweet and Savory Honey Butter Chicken
Sweet and Savory Honey Butter Chicken is a delectable dish that beautifully balances juicy, tender chicken with a rich, glossy honey butter glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe features simple ingredients and straightforward steps to deliver a comforting yet exciting flavor experience that pairs well with a variety of sides.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Sauce Reduction
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Garnish (optional)
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to create a flavorful crust.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of butter. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, sealing in the juices.
- Make the Honey Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the butter, minced garlic, honey, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir constantly to combine the ingredients into a smooth, glossy sauce.
- Glaze and Cook Through: Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the honey butter sauce over the top repeatedly. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and beautifully glazed.
- Finish and Garnish: If desired, squeeze a touch of lemon juice over the chicken and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for added brightness and color.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Use room temperature chicken to help it cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Add honey slowly and adjust sweetness gradually to balance the flavors.
- Keep heat at medium to low when making the sauce to prevent burning the butter or garlic.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in moisture before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or thigh with sauce
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: honey butter chicken, sweet and savory chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, gluten free chicken