Honey Butter Chicken Skillet is one of those simple chicken recipes that feels special but takes almost no effort. On busy nights here in Carmel, when the ocean air turns cool and everyone is hungry at once, this is the pan I reach for. Juicy chicken, golden edges, and a sweet buttery glaze come together in one skillet. It is cozy, quick, and made with everyday ingredients. If you have 30 minutes, you can have this on the table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe checks all the boxes for a busy family dinner.
- Quick dinner idea: Everything cooks in one pan and is ready fast.
- Simple ingredients: You likely have butter, honey, and chicken at home.
- Family friendly flavor: Sweet and savory, even picky eaters love it.
- Great for boneless skinless chicken thigh recipes or chicken breasts.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: They stay juicy and tender in the skillet.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out the flavor.
- Garlic: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
- Butter: Creates a rich base for the glaze.
- Honey: Gives the chicken its sweet, sticky finish.
- Soy sauce: Balances the sweetness with a little savory touch.
- Fresh parsley: Optional, but adds a fresh pop at the end.
Step by Step Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil, then place the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat. Add butter and let it melt gently. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Pour in the honey and soy sauce. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. It will start to thicken slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the honey butter sauce over the top. Let it cook together for another 3 to 5 minutes, until the chicken is coated and glossy.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Helpful Tips and Variations
- You can swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer easy chicken breast recipes. Just be careful not to overcook them.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright finish.
- If you like a little heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- This pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables for healthy dinner recipes.
- For another sweet and savory favorite, try my honey garlic chicken with orange glaze.
- If you love bold flavors, you might also enjoy this easy Santa Fe chicken skillet.
- Need something cozy and creamy, my creamy crack chicken thighs are always a hit.
- For a lighter pasta night, try this quick chicken and vegetable risoni.
- And when you have more time, this whole roast chicken with unique flavor makes Sunday feel special.
Serving and Storage
Serve this honey butter chicken skillet over fluffy white rice or buttery noodles. Spoon extra sauce on top so nothing goes to waste. A simple green salad on the side makes it feel complete.
Honey Butter Chicken Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil, then place the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Lower the heat. Add butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the honey and soy sauce. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until coated and glossy.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of water if the sauce gets too thick.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this honey butter chicken skillet?
Yes, you can. Chicken breasts work well and are great for easy chicken breast recipes. Just slice them evenly so they cook at the same rate. Cook until they reach 165 degrees inside. Be careful not to overcook, since breasts can dry out faster than thighs. Spoon plenty of sauce over the top to keep them juicy.
Is this recipe good for healthy dinner recipes?
This can fit into many healthy dinner recipes with a few small changes. You can use less butter or swap part of it for olive oil. Serve it with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice. The honey adds sweetness, but you can reduce it slightly if you like. It is all about balance and simple portions.
Can I make this ahead for quick dinner ideas?
Yes, this is one of my favorite quick dinner ideas for meal prep. Cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them together in the fridge. When ready to eat, warm it slowly on the stove so the sauce stays smooth. It tastes just as comforting the next day.
What sides go best with honey butter chicken?
Rice, mashed potatoes, or even buttered pasta are perfect for soaking up the sauce. Roasted broccoli or green beans add color and freshness. If you want to keep things simple for lazy dinners, just add a slice of warm bread and call it done. The sauce really does the heavy lifting.
Final Thoughts from Ama
Some nights call for fancy meals. Other nights call for a skillet and a little faith. This honey butter chicken skillet is for those real, busy evenings when you want something warm and homemade without the stress. Even if the sauce bubbles a little too much or the edges get extra golden, it will still taste wonderful. Set it on the table, gather your people, and enjoy every sweet, buttery bite.