Honey Butter Chicken (Crispy, Sticky & Sweet in 30 Minutes)

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If you’re craving something crispy, sticky, sweet, and savory all in one bite, this Honey Butter Chicken is your dream dinner come true. With golden pan-fried chicken tossed in a glossy, buttery honey sauce, every piece bursts with indulgent flavor. This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for weeknights, date nights, or when you just want a comfort food dinner that actually excites you.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Asian-inspired Southern fusion
Category: Dinner, Chicken Recipes

Why This Honey Butter Chicken Works

• Sweet and savory combo — rich honey meets umami-packed soy sauce and tangy vinegar.

• Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside — thanks to a seasoned flour coating and quick pan-fry.

• Butter-based sauce — lush, velvety, and caramel-like in texture.

• Quick and easy — done in under 40 minutes.

• Budget-friendly — uses pantry staples and chicken breast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

• ½ tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp canola oil (or any light neutral oil)

• 1 tbsp green onions, sliced (for garnish)

• 5 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature

• ½ cup honey

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• ¼ tsp salt

• ⅛ tsp ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Coat the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly, ensuring each bite is seasoned to perfection.

Step 2: Fry Until Golden

Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
Shake off excess flour and place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the pan.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Sauce

Turn the heat to low. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter.
Whisk in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to a smooth, glossy, caramel-like consistency.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat every piece in that golden honey butter glaze.
Cook for 1–2 more minutes, then turn off the heat and let the chicken sit for 5 minutes so the sauce clings perfectly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or buttery mashed potatoes.
Sprinkle with sliced green onions for color and a fresh bite.

Pro Tips for Perfect Honey Butter Chicken

• Use a cast iron skillet for the best crispy sear and even heat.

• Cut chicken uniformly to ensure even cooking.

• Want extra heat? Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

• Prefer dark meat? Chicken thighs work beautifully and stay juicy.

What to Serve with Honey Butter Chicken

• Steamed jasmine rice – soaks up every drop of sauce.

• Roasted broccoli or garlic green beans for a complete plate.

• Buttermilk biscuits or cornbread for a Southern twist.

• A light cucumber salad balances the richness.

Storage and Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce (separately or together) for up to 2 months.

• To reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I bake instead of pan-fry the chicken?
Yes, though it won’t be as crispy. Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is this recipe spicy?
Only mildly. The cayenne adds warmth but isn’t overpowering. Adjust to taste or omit.

Can I use honey alternatives like maple syrup?
You can, but the flavor and consistency will change. Honey gives that rich, sticky glaze.

Is this gluten-free?
Not as written. Use a gluten-free flour blend and tamari instead of soy sauce for a GF version.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 450

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 32g

• Sugar: 24g

• Sodium: 600mg

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