It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. This Honey Butter Garlic Chicken is your new secret weapon for those busy winter nights.
There is something so warming about a sweet and savory glaze. It coats every tender bite of chicken perfectly. Your kitchen will smell amazing as the garlic hits the melted butter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner because it uses simple pantry staples. You likely have everything in your kitchen right now. It is incredibly budget-friendly too.
The best part is how kid-approved this meal is. The honey adds a gentle sweetness that picky eaters enjoy. It is ready in 25 minutes from start to finish.
Simple Method
You will love how this comes together in one skillet. First, you give the chicken a light dusting of flour. This creates a golden, crispy crust that holds onto the sauce.
The sauce happens right in the same pan. There is no need for extra bowls or mess. Even a beginner cook can master this easy skillet technique with confidence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Fresh ingredients make a big difference in this simple dish.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Step-by-Step Directions
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Reduce heat to medium and move chicken to the sides of the pan.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the center of the pan; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
- Toss the chicken in the sauce and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this chicken warm over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice soaks up all that extra golden sauce. It is also delicious with a side of steamed broccoli.
For a cozy winter dinner, try it with mashed potatoes. Set the table and gather the family for a stress-free meal. Everyone will be asking for seconds of this one.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Store them in an airtight container to keep the chicken moist. This is a great option for meal prep lunches.
To reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Add a tiny splash of water to loosen the glaze. It will taste just as fresh as the first night.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not crowd the skillet so the chicken browns properly.
- Shake off excess flour for a lighter, crispier coating.
- Use fresh garlic instead of the jarred kind for better flavor.
- Cut your chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- For a winter twist, serve with roasted root vegetables.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
- Always use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap the chicken breasts for tender chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Use gluten-free flour to make this dish allergy-friendly.
- In the spring, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different earthy sweetness.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but you must thaw it completely first. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This ensures the flour sticks properly and creates a crust.
Is this recipe too sweet for dinner?
The soy sauce and apple cider vinegar balance the honey perfectly. It creates a complex savory profile rather than just being sugary. You can reduce the honey slightly if you prefer.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be golden brown on the outside. When you cut a piece, the inside should be white and opaque. Using a meat thermometer, it should reach 165°F.
I hope this sweet and savory chicken makes your busy weeknights a little easier. It is a warm, comforting hug in a bowl that your family will love. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon sal t
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup all -purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- 1/3 cup hone y
- 1 tablespoon low -sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Reduce heat to medium and move chicken to the sides of the pan.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the center of the pan; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
- Toss the chicken in the sauce and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.
