Sticky Honey Butter Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This Sticky Honey Butter Chicken is a quick and delicious dish ready in just 20 minutes. Crispy chicken pieces coated in a glossy, sweet, and savory sauce make a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless skinless, cut into 2” pieces)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp flour (you can use Bob’s gluten free 1 to 1)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 3 garlic cloves (sliced thinly)
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp cold unsalted butter
• Garnish with finely chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until they are lightly coated.
2. Step 2: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 8 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Make sure each piece is well-seared for that perfect crunch. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Lower the heat, then add the cold butter to the pan. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to make the sauce.
5. Step 5: To achieve a glossy sauce, add the cold butter at the end. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it slightly.
6. Step 6: Return the chicken to the pan and toss it in the sauce until well coated.
7. Step 7: Garnish with finely chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Serve over steamed rice or with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Make sure the butter is cold before adding to get a silky, glossy sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the sauce’s texture, or microwave covered for 1-2 minutes. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster and could be less juicy. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid drying out.

What can I substitute for avocado oil?

You can use any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or light olive oil.

Sticky Honey Butter Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 119 reviews

Sticky Honey Butter Chicken is a quick and delicious dish featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a crispy, golden crust and tossed in a luscious honey butter sauce with a hint of garlic. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American Fusion
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Coating

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp flour (Bob’s gluten free 1-to-1 flour can be used)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Sauce and Cooking

• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten free option)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp cold unsalted butter
• Finely chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until each piece is lightly and evenly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking for about 8 minutes on each side. Continue until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the sliced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant but not burned.
4. Make the Honey Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add cold unsalted butter to the skillet. Stir to melt the butter and then add honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir well to combine all ingredients into a glossy sauce. To thin the sauce if needed, add a splash of water and stir.
5. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat them evenly with the sticky honey butter sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish the dish with finely chopped parsley and serve hot for best flavor.

Notes

• Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten free.
• Adding cold butter at the end gives the sauce a rich, glossy finish.
• For a thinner sauce, add a splash of water while stirring the sauce.
• You can substitute avocado oil with any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil.
• Ensure the chicken pieces are cooked thoroughly and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Keywords: Sticky Honey Butter Chicken, Quick Chicken Recipe, Honey Butter Sauce, Crispy Chicken Thighs, 20 Minute Dinner, Gluten Free Chicken