Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Season the protein. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken chunks with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Note: Ensure every nook and cranny is covered to avoid bald spots on the meat.
- Heat the pan. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Wait until the pan is hot enough that a drop of water dances on the surface.
- The first sear. Add the chicken in a single layer. Do not crowd the pan, or the meat will steam. Sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a deep golden brown crust forms.
- The flip. Use tongs to flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes until nearly cooked through.
- Clear the center. Reduce heat to low. Push the chicken pieces to the sides of the pan, creating a small empty circle in the middle.
- Create the base. Add the butter, honey, and minced garlic to the center.
- Foam and bubble. Stir the butter, honey, and garlic constantly for 1-2 minutes until the butter foams and the honey bubbles.
- The final glaze. Spoon the bubbling glaze over the chicken pieces, tossing gently to coat.
- Finish the sauce. Remove from heat immediately once the sauce thickens and looks glossy. Note: If you cook it too long, the honey will burn and turn bitter.
- Garnish. Sprinkle with dried parsley and serve.