Sticky and tender, Honey Butter Garlic Chicken is the perfect dish for any occasion. With its mouthwatering combination of garlic, soy, and honey, this quick recipe comes together in just 20 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this flavorful chicken will impress everyone at the table.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- For the Sauce:
- To Serve:
- How to Make Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter
- Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
- Step 6: Serve
- How to Serve Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
- Over Boiled Rice
- With Steamed Vegetables
- In Tacos
- On a Salad
- With Noodles
- As a Sandwich
- How to Perfect Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
- Best Side Dishes for Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
- Reheating Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Honey Butter Garlic Chicken?
- What sides pair well with Honey Butter Garlic Chicken?
- How can I make Honey Butter Garlic Chicken gluten-free?
- How long does Honey Butter Garlic Chicken last in the fridge?
- Can I customize the spice level of this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish allows you to prepare a delicious meal in only 20 minutes.
- Flavorful Sauce: The mix of honey and garlic creates a rich sauce that enhances the chicken’s taste.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize it by swapping ingredients like chicken thighs for breasts or using different vinegars.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner without losing flavor; it reheats well!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory notes in each bite.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is crucial. Here are the essential items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large frying pan or skillet: This allows for even cooking of the chicken while accommodating all ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for tossing chicken with seasonings, ensuring every piece is coated evenly.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula makes flipping the chicken easy without breaking it apart.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 8 chicken thighs (skinless and boneless)
- 2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 110 g (1/3 cup) honey
- 80 ml (1/3 cup) chicken stock
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
To Serve:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- Boiled rice
How to Make Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a bowl. Toss them with cornflour, salt, and pepper until fully coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over high heat.
1. Add chicken thighs to the pan.
2. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown.
3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter
Add butter to the pan; let it melt. Stir in minced garlic while reducing heat to medium to prevent burning.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine honey, chicken stock, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir until combined. Pour this sauce into the pan with cooked chicken.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Turn up heat to bring sauce to a boil. Reduce to simmer; cook for another 4-5 minutes until sauce thickens and coats chicken. Ensure chicken is cooked through with no pink remaining.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish your delicious Honey Butter Garlic Chicken with fresh parsley and chili flakes. Serve hot over boiled rice for a complete meal!
Enjoy this easy recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your dining table!
How to Serve Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
Honey Butter Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Over Boiled Rice
- Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy boiled rice. The rice will soak up the delicious honey garlic sauce, making every bite flavorful.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Pair the chicken with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans. The crunchiness of the vegetables complements the tender chicken perfectly.
In Tacos
- Shred the cooked chicken and serve it in soft tortillas. Add toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime for a tasty twist.
On a Salad
- Toss diced Honey Butter Garlic Chicken over mixed greens. Drizzle with your favorite dressing for a refreshing meal option.
With Noodles
- Serve the chicken alongside stir-fried noodles. The combination of flavors will take you on an Asian culinary adventure.
As a Sandwich
- Use the chicken in a sandwich or wrap, adding lettuce and tomatoes for extra freshness and crunch.

How to Perfect Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
To ensure your Honey Butter Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Monitor Sauce Thickness: Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers; it should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, making it more tender.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey if you prefer a less sweet flavor profile.
- Experiment with Spices: Add spices like ginger or chili powder for an extra kick if desired.
Best Side Dishes for Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
Complementing your Honey Butter Garlic Chicken with delightful side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some fantastic options:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice pairs beautifully with this rich dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and balance to the meal.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing adds freshness and texture that contrasts well with the chicken.
- Fried Rice: Incorporate day-old rice with veggies and eggs for a tasty fried rice side that meshes wonderfully with the main dish.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds elegance and vibrant color to your plate.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a crisp contrast to the savory chicken flavors.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add depth of flavor and nutrition to round out your dinner.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries give a sweet-salty combo that’s irresistible next to honey butter garlic chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Honey Butter Garlic Chicken, beginners may encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Not coating the chicken properly: Failing to thoroughly coat the chicken thighs with cornflour can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure each piece is well covered for optimal texture.
- Cooking at too high a temperature: While high heat is great for searing, cooking the chicken too fast can burn the garlic. Start on high heat, then reduce when adding garlic and butter.
- Skipping the simmering step: Neglecting to let the sauce simmer will prevent it from thickening. This step is crucial for achieving that sticky glaze that makes this dish special.
- Using old or low-quality ingredients: Fresh garlic and good-quality honey make a significant difference in flavor. Always use fresh ingredients to enhance your dish.
- Not checking for doneness: Failing to ensure that the chicken is cooked through can lead to food safety issues. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover with foil and reheat for about 12-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pan. Add a splash of water or stock to prevent sticking and keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Honey Butter Garlic Chicken?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used as an alternative. Slice them into strips or flatten them for even cooking.
What sides pair well with Honey Butter Garlic Chicken?
This dish goes well with boiled rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I make Honey Butter Garlic Chicken gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, replace soy sauce with tamari and ensure your stock and rice vinegar are gluten-free.
How long does Honey Butter Garlic Chicken last in the fridge?
In an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
Can I customize the spice level of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your spice preference or add other spices like black pepper or paprika.
Final Thoughts
Honey Butter Garlic Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch!
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Honey Butter Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Honey Butter Garlic Chicken, a dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, sticky sauce made from honey and garlic. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. Each bite bursts with sweet and savory goodness, impressing both kids and adults alike. Whether served over fluffy rice or paired with vibrant vegetables, this meal promises to satisfy your cravings and elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
- 8 skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 110 g (1/3 cup) honey
- 80 ml (1/3 cup) chicken stock
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- Boiled rice
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss chicken thighs with cornflour, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium; add butter and garlic to the skillet until the garlic is fragrant.
- In a separate bowl, mix honey, chicken stock, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Pour into the skillet with the chicken.
- Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and chili flakes over boiled rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (150g)
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 120mg