Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken

Tender chicken glazed in a bright, zesty lemon-honey sauce that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy. This easy, flavorful recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want something that tastes gourmet with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners
• Delicious flavor balance: Sweet honey, tangy lemon, and savory garlic create a bold, balanced glaze
• Versatile: Works with chicken breasts, thighs, or even wings
• Family-friendly: Mild, yet flavorful—great for both kids and adults

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Honey
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Water (for slurry, if using cornstarch)
• Fresh parsley or thyme (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Prep chicken. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Sear chicken. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make glaze. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, and soy sauce. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
4. Optional thickening. Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry and add to the pan if a thicker glaze is desired. Simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Glaze chicken. Return chicken to the pan, spoon glaze over the top, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
6. Serve. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15–20 minutes
• Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Use boneless thighs for juicier meat
• Add red pepper flakes for heat
• Substitute maple syrup for honey
• Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze
• Grill the chicken and brush with glaze during the final minutes

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals, spooning glaze over the chicken to keep it moist

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are flavorful and juicy and work great in this recipe.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.

3. Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then pour glaze over before serving.

4. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store it in the fridge and warm it before glazing the chicken.

5. What sides pair well with this dish?

Rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad go beautifully.

6. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?

Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans cook well in the glaze.

7. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

8. Is cornstarch necessary for the glaze?

No, it’s optional. The glaze will be slightly thinner without it.

9. Can I make this dish spicy?

Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a little heat.

10. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines the brightness of citrus with the richness of honey for a glaze that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a go-to recipe that you’ll come back to again and again—perfect for quick dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

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