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Sweet Honey Butter Chicken

Sweet Honey Butter Chicken
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Sweet Honey Butter Chicken is a deliciously rich and tender dish featuring juicy chicken thighs or breasts coated in a luscious honey butter glaze. The perfect balance of natural sweetness from honey and creamy butter, enhanced with garlic and lemon juice, creates a comforting and flavorful meal ideal for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in for juicier results or boneless for convenience)

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Herbs and Garnishes

  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Lemon zest (for garnish)
  • Toasted sesame seeds or chopped almonds (for added texture)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy sear. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides for flavorful results.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt half the butter. Sear the chicken skin-side down (if using thighs with skin) until golden brown and crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes until nearly cooked through.
  3. Make the Honey Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter, minced garlic, and honey to the pan. Stir constantly as the butter melts and blends with honey and garlic, creating a rich glaze.
  4. Finish Cooking: Return the chicken to the pan and coat it thoroughly with the honey butter sauce. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and optional herbs. Let the chicken cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, spoon the glossy sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Patience matters: Dry chicken skin before searing to get the crispiest texture possible.
  • Control the heat: Keep the pan at medium to prevent the honey from burning and turning bitter.
  • Use fresh garlic: It packs more flavor and aroma than pre-minced options.
  • Rest the chicken: Let it rest a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices locked in.
  • Adjust sweetness carefully: Add honey gradually, tasting as you go, to avoid overpowering the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey Butter Chicken, Sweet Chicken, Quick Dinner, Family Meal, Easy Chicken Recipe, Gluten Free Chicken

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/sweet-honey-butter-chicken/