Soy Butter Chicken
Equipment
Ingredients
Chicken & Marinade
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into ½-inch chunks, see note 1
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce, see note 2
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, see note 2
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp butter
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Scallions
- Steamed greens
Instructions
- Slice chicken thighs into ½-inch chunks.
- In a bowl, combine chicken with light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey. Marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat a lightly oiled pan and sear chicken for about 3 minutes per side.
- Add butter and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring until chicken is coated and slightly glossy.
- Serve chicken over fresh rice. Optionally add steamed greens and garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Why I Love Soy Butter Chicken
Soy Butter Chicken is one of those deceptively simple recipes that delivers serious flavor. The combination of salty soy sauce, aromatic garlic and ginger, and creamy butter creates a glaze that clings to every piece of golden chicken. It’s sweet, savory, and rich in umami. In my opinion, it’s a perfect blend of flavors that’s comforting and can’t be replicated by any restaurant. Whether you’re craving something hearty after a long day or just want to elevate your chicken game, this dish is a go-to!
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
If you’re short on time but want something home-cooked and delicious, Soy Butter Chicken has your back. The marinade takes just minutes, and the cook time is even faster. It all comes together in one pan with no fancy ingredients or complicated steps. I personally like to serve it over rice with a side of steamed greens for a balanced, flavorful dinner ready in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for meal prep, easy to scale, and customizable based on what’s in your fridge.
What You’ll Need To Make Soy Butter Chicken
Chicken & Marinade
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into ½-inch chunks
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp butter
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Scallions
- Steamed greens
How to Make Soy Butter Chicken
Cut chicken thighs into ½-inch chunks and combine with light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey. Marinate for 15 minutes.
Heat a lightly oiled pan and sear chicken for about 3 minutes per side until golden.
Add butter and stir for 2 minutes until chicken is glossy and coated in the glaze.
Serve over rice and optionally top with sesame seeds, scallions, or steamed greens.
Tips and Variations
• Use chicken breast if preferred, but be careful not to overcook. The high fat content in chicken thighs make them stay juicier.
• If Soy Butter Chicken is too bland, toss in a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Make it meal-prep friendly, portion over rice with steamed greens for a balanced lunch.
• Swap the protein for tofu or salmon for a vegetarian/pescatarian friendly twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in an air fryer?
You can! Cook the marinated chicken in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, then toss it with melted butter in a pan or bowl.
Is it too salty with both dark and light soy sauce?
Not at all! Light soy adds saltiness while dark soy brings color and depth. Combined with honey and butter, it balances out perfectly.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but real butter adds a richer flavor that pairs better with the soy sauce base.
How long can leftovers keep?
Up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely! Just keep the butter ratio balanced to avoid it turning oily.
Try These Next
Try my Garlic Soy Glazed Chicken for a similar flavor but with more garlic flavor 🙂
Make Crispy Teriyaki Chicken if you want something with more texture.
Check out Kung Pao Chicken for a spicier stir-fry with peanuts and dried chilies.
