There is something magical about the smell of cinnamon on a crisp autumn evening. You probably love that famous restaurant bread spread. Now, you can bring those cozy flavors to your main course. This Honey Cinnamon Butter Chicken is a total game-changer for your family table.
It is 6pm and you are likely tired. Dinner needs to happen fast tonight. This recipe delivers a sweet and savory punch in just thirty minutes. Your kitchen will smell like a warm hug. It is the perfect way to end a busy day.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is the ultimate solution for picky eaters. The sweet honey and warm cinnamon create a kid-approved glaze. It uses simple pantry staples you already have. You do not need a long grocery list for this meal.
It feels like a special treat but fits a budget-friendly lifestyle. You get restaurant-quality flavor without the high price tag. This recipe is perfect for busy fall weeknights. It is fast, delicious, and incredibly satisfying for everyone.
Simple Method
Making this dish is surprisingly easy and very doable. You will start by searing the chicken to get a golden crust. While it cooks, you whip up the flavored butter. The magic happens when you baste the meat at the end. Even beginners can master this pan-seared technique with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together to create a complex and savory-sweet profile.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6oz each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Directions
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a proper sear.
- In a small mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, honey, cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until smooth and aerated.
- Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with the remaining salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Reduce the heat to low. Add 3 tablespoons of the prepared honey cinnamon butter to the pan.
- Baste the chicken continuously with the melting butter for 1 to 2 minutes until the meat is thoroughly glazed.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let rest for 3 minutes.
- Serve warm with an additional dollop of the fresh honey cinnamon butter on top of each breast.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this chicken warm with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes. The extra butter tastes amazing drizzled over roasted carrots. You can also pair it with warm yeast rolls. This recreates the full restaurant experience right at home. It is a soul-warming meal for any night.
How to Store Leftovers
Place any extra chicken in an airtight container quickly. It stays fresh in the fridge for three to four days. You can reheat it gently in a skillet. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. This meal is great for easy weekday lunches the next day. The butter will firm up but melts beautifully again.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not skip drying the chicken with paper towels first.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the breast meat.
- Keep the heat low when adding the butter to prevent burning.
- Make the butter a day early to save even more time.
- For a fall twist, serve with roasted sweet potatoes.
- Always let the meat rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Add a pinch of cayenne if you want a tiny kick.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the chicken for thick-cut pork chops for a change.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper flavor.
- Try this recipe with chicken thighs for extra moisture.
- Add a handful of pecans to the butter for crunch.
Common Questions
Can I make the butter ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the butter several days in advance. Just store it in the fridge and soften it before using. This makes holiday entertaining much easier.
Is this recipe too sweet for dinner?
The salt and garlic powder balance the honey and cinnamon perfectly. It creates a savory-sweet glaze rather than a dessert flavor. Your family will love the balance.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
Any large heavy-bottomed pan will work just fine for this. Just ensure it is hot before adding the chicken. You want that beautiful golden sear.
I hope this cozy Honey Cinnamon Butter Chicken brightens your fall evenings. Give it a try and let every sweet bite warm you up. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Texas Roadhouse Inspired Honey Cinnamon Butter Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless , skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6oz each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup hone y
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a proper sear.
- In a small mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, honey, cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until smooth and aerated.
- Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with the remaining salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Reduce the heat to low. Add 3 tablespoons of the prepared honey cinnamon butter to the pan.
- Baste the chicken continuously with the melting butter for 1 to 2 minutes until the meat is thoroughly glazed.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let rest for 3 minutes.
- Serve warm with an additional dollop of the fresh honey cinnamon butter on top of each breast.
