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Delicious Honey Garlic Butter Chicken glistening with a savory, sweet sauce.

Irresistible Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

This Honey Garlic Butter Chicken recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. Tender chicken thighs are coated in a luscious honey garlic butter sauce, creating an unforgettable and satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish
  • Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • paper towels
  • Spatula or tongs

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the garlic. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: In another small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the simmering sauce and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Finish the Dish: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the sauce and stir until melted and the sauce is glossy. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
  7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened further.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using), sesame seeds, and chopped green onions. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes. You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but be careful not to overcook them. Serve with steamed broccoli or other vegetables for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.