Go Back
Crispy honey butter chicken with glossy glaze

Honey Butter Chicken

Crispy, golden chicken coated in a luscious honey butter glaze—sweet, savory, and utterly addictive. A perfect balance of crunch and caramelized goodness that’s weeknight-friendly and better than takeout.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Wire Rack
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

Chicken & Coating

  • 2 pieces chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • 1 cup buttermilk or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar
  • 1 tsp hot sauce adds flavor, not heat
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch
  • 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese grated, for umami boost

Honey Butter Glaze

  • 3 tbsp butter European preferred for richness
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • cup honey local preferred for depth
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions
 

  • Place chicken breasts between parchment paper and pound to even thickness using a rolling pin or bottle.
  • Set up a dredging station with three bowls: flour mixed with smoked paprika and cayenne, buttermilk mixed with hot sauce, and panko mixed with Parmesan.
  • Dip each chicken breast into the flour, then buttermilk, then panko. Press firmly to ensure an even coating.
  • Heat oil in a large skillet to 350°F. Fry chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  • Transfer skillet to a 375°F oven and bake for 15 minutes to finish cooking.
  • In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • Stir in honey and soy sauce, simmering for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking, then drizzle with honey butter glaze before serving.

Notes

For a spicy kick, add 1 tsp gochujang to the glaze. Leftover glaze makes a great stir-fry sauce.
Keyword Crispy Chicken, Easy Dinner, Honey Butter