This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is sweet, crispy, and oh-so-tasty! The chicken is coated in a honey butter glaze that gives it a nice crunch and a delicious kick of flavor.
I love how quickly this dish comes together—perfect for a busy weeknight! Pair it with some rice or veggies, and you’ve got a yummy meal that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using boneless chicken thighs as they stay juicy during cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken breasts work fine too. For a plant-based option, try using tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian twist.
Flour and Cornstarch: The mix of flour and cornstarch helps achieve that perfect crispiness. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just keep an eye on the batter’s consistency!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and gloss to the sauce, but agave or maple syrup can be used if you want a vegan alternative. They will change the flavor slightly but still offer a sweet note!
Vegetable Oil: While I suggest vegetable oil for frying, canola or peanut oil also work well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try air frying the chicken instead!
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy chicken is in the batter and frying technique. Here’s how to get that crunch:
- Ensure the batter is thick enough to cling to the chicken. If it seems too runny, add a bit more flour or cornstarch.
- Make sure your oil is hot before adding the chicken. You can test this by dropping a small amount of batter in; it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry the chicken in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady, which helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Let the chicken rest on a paper towel after frying to absorb extra oil, leaving it crispy!
With these tips, you’ll have a delightfully crispy honey butter chicken that everyone will love! Enjoy!
Easy Honey Butter Chicken with Crispy Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup cold water (or enough to make batter)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Honey Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Optional: pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for mild heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and cooking. With a quick frying process and a simple sauce, you’ll have your crispy honey butter chicken ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually pour in the cold water while stirring until you create a smooth and thick batter that can coat the chicken pieces well.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the batter and ensure that each piece is fully coated. This will create that deliciously crispy exterior when fried.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan or wok, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil for deep frying, so make sure it’s ready before adding the chicken.
4. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil in small batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove the chicken and let them drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Honey Butter Sauce:
In a separate saucepan or skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and optional chili flakes. Stir it all together and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce is well mixed and slightly thickened.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Once your chicken is ready, add it into the saucepan with the honey butter sauce. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with that sweet, buttery glaze.
7. Serve:
Plate your crispy honey butter chicken and serve while hot! It pairs perfectly with steamed rice or a side of vegetables. Enjoy!
This Easy Honey Butter Chicken is not just delicious; it’s a crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Honey Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is to leave it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the honey butter sauce. Ensure all products are certified gluten-free for safety.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, being careful not to overcook the chicken to keep it moist.
Can I Prepare the Honey Butter Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the honey butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to toss it with the fried chicken.
