Honey Butter Chicken Dinner

Sweet Honey Butter Chicken is pure comfort food with golden bites of chicken covered in a sticky buttery glaze you will want to pour over everything. It is one of those fast dinners that saves the day after a long day and leaves everyone at the table grinning.

My family first tried this when I needed something quick during a busy school week. Now it is on regular rotation every time we crave something cozy but do not want to wait hours for it.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: helps get each chicken piece crispy on the outside
• Garlic powder and onion powder: build a deep background flavor you taste in every bite
• Cayenne pepper: adds just a gentle heat skip or increase to your own spice preference
• Salt and ground black pepper: balance the sweet sauce and season the chicken through
• Chicken breasts: cut into even one inch pieces for tender juicy nuggets make sure to use boneless skinless for best results
• Unsalted butter: essential for both frying and building the rich honey butter sauce always choose high quality for richness
• Canola oil or any light oil: prevents burning and helps crisp the chicken
• Green onions: for fresh flavor and a pop of color on the final dish
• Honey: thickens the sauce and brings a deep natural sweetness use a good local honey if possible
• Soy sauce: for a touch of umami flavor that keeps the sauce from tasting one dimensional
• Apple cider vinegar: brightens everything and keeps the sauce from being too sweet

Ingredient Tips

To select quality ingredients always check for fresh chicken free of excess moisture and choose honey that is golden and aromatic not overly processed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Coating:

Cut the chicken into even one inch pieces and pat dry for maximum crispiness In a large bowl thoroughly mix the flour garlic powder onion powder cayenne pepper salt and ground black pepper Add the chicken pieces toss until evenly coated every surface should be covered

Sear the Chicken:

Heat one tablespoon unsalted butter with the oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat Shake excess flour from each piece and arrange the chicken in a single layer with a little space between each Fry for two to three minutes on each side until both are golden brown and crisp Remove and set aside on a plate

Build the Sauce:

Lower the heat to low and melt the remaining five tablespoons butter in the skillet Scrape up any brown bits left by the chicken Pour in the honey soy sauce apple cider vinegar a pinch of salt and black pepper Stir continuously as it melts and thickens keep it on low so the sauce does not burn and stir until it is caramel like and glossy

Coat the Chicken:

Add the fried chicken pieces back into the pan Toss gently to coat each piece so every nugget is glazed in the honey butter sauce Warm together for one more minute then turn off the heat

Serve and Garnish:

Let the chicken rest for five minutes so the sauce sets Serve on a platter with steamed rice and vegetables Scatter sliced green onions over the top and serve immediately

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My favorite ingredient in this dish is the honey Its sticky sweetness transforms simple chicken into something crave worthy Every time I make this my kids argue over who can scrape the last bits of sauce from the pan which always makes me smile at dinner

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days The sauce thickens after chilling so reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen it up Microwaving can make the chicken less crispy but it works in a pinch

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be swapped for breast just cut them the same size for even cooking If you prefer a gluten free version use a one to one gluten free flour or cornstarch instead of all purpose flour Orange blossom honey gives a floral twist while white wine vinegar can sub for apple cider vinegar in a pinch

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Serving Suggestions

Pile the honey butter chicken on fluffy white rice or fragrant jasmine rice Steamed green beans broccoli or snap peas pair perfectly for a balanced plate Leftover chicken makes an amazing filling in wraps or atop a crisp salad

Cultural Context

This dish takes inspiration from the classic American love for honey butter and crispy fried chicken You will find spicy honey glazed chicken in Southern kitchens and Asian American variations often feature soy sauce for that sweet savory combination that makes you keep coming back for more

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I get the chicken extra crispy?

For crispier chicken, fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and shake off excess flour before adding to the pan.

→ What sides pair well with honey butter chicken?

This dish goes well with steamed white rice, sautéed green beans, or even a fresh green salad.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully, offering even more juicy and rich flavor.

→ Is there a substitute for apple cider vinegar?

Rice vinegar or white wine vinegar offer a similar tang; use the same amount for a balanced sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.