Name: Sticky Honey Butter Chicken in 20 Minutes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into 2” pieces; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp flour (can use gluten-free 1 to 1 flour); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 3 garlic cloves, sliced thinly; 1 tbsp avocado oil; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp cold unsalted butter; Finely chopped parsley, for garnish

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Introduction

Sticky Honey Butter Chicken is a quick and delicious dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Crispy chicken thighs are coated in a glossy, sweet, and savory honey butter sauce for a perfect weeknight meal.

A dish with two layers is shown in a white bowl on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is white rice, loose and fluffy with a soft texture. On top, there is a second layer of dark brown, glossy grilled chicken pieces coated in a thick sauce, showing a slightly charred texture with a few golden garlic slices mixed in. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled over the chicken and rice, adding a touch of color. In the background, some green leaves are slightly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs (boneless skinless, cut into 2” pieces)
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp flour (you can use Bob’s gluten free 1 to 1)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
3 garlic cloves (sliced thinly)
1 tbsp avocado oil
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp cold unsalted butter
Garnish with finely chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until lightly coated.
Step 2: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 8 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Add the sliced garlic to the same pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Lower the heat and add the cold unsalted butter. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to make the sauce. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of water as needed.
Step 5: Return the chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the sticky honey butter sauce.
Step 6: Garnish with finely chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but adjust cooking time to avoid drying out.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Substitute avocado oil with vegetable oil or olive oil if preferred.
Serve over steamed rice or with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the sauce’s texture or microwave until heated through.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a bed of fluffy white rice as the bottom layer, topped with several pieces of glazed chicken that are dark brown with a shiny, sticky texture. The chicken is coated in a rich, thick sauce that looks glossy and slightly caramelized. Small bits of browned garlic and green herbs are scattered on and around the chicken, adding texture and a fresh pop of color. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh chicken or fully thaw frozen chicken before cooking to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.

How do I make the sauce less sweet?

Reduce the amount of honey slightly or add a bit more rice vinegar to balance the sweetness with acidity.