Name: Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 56 min
Total time: 1 h 11 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 5 chicken thighs; salt; ½ cup honey; ¼ cup lemon juice; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar; 2 tsp garlic; 6 garlic cloves; Lemon slices and zest; sliced green onions

This honey lemon garlic chicken recipe combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors to create a mouthwatering dish. The caramelized skin and tender meat make it perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Rice wine vinegar may not be a staple in every kitchen. Make sure to pick it up when shopping, as it adds a subtle tanginess to the dish that can't be replaced by regular vinegar.

Ingredients for Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

Chicken thighs: Rich and flavorful cuts of chicken that become tender when cooked.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.

Honey: Adds a sweet and sticky glaze to the chicken.

Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami depth to the sauce.

Rice wine vinegar: Brings a mild acidity that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Garlic: Minced for a robust, aromatic addition to the sauce.

Garlic cloves: Whole for a more mellow, roasted garlic flavor.

Lemon slices: Used as a garnish to add a bright, fresh touch.

Lemon zest: Adds an intense citrus aroma and flavor.

Green onions: Sliced for a fresh, crisp garnish.

One reader, Deena Mccann says:

This honey lemon garlic chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors blend perfectly, creating a deliciously sticky and crispy skin. The lemon zest adds a refreshing touch, and the garlic cloves infuse the dish beautifully. A must-try for any chicken lover!

Deena Mccann

Cooking Techniques for Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

How to sear chicken: Heat an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin side down first until golden for about 5 minutes, then turn and repeat on the other side.

How to reduce sauce: Pour the remaining sauce into a small pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer while occasionally stirring. Lift the pot off the heat when the sauce bubbles up to the rim, and repeat the process until the sauce has slightly reduced and thickened. This will take about 6 minutes.

How To Make Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

Serve this honey lemon garlic chicken for a delightful dinner. Crispy chicken skin covered in sweet, citrusy sticky sauce that everyone will love.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 56 minutes

Total: 1 hour 11 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5chicken thighsbone in, skin on
saltto taste
½cuphoney
¼cuplemon juicefresh squeezed or juice of 1 lemon
1tbspsoy sauce
1tbsprice wine vinegar
2tspgarlicminced
6garlic clovespeeled
Lemon slices and zestto garnish
Sliced green onionsto garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 360 degrees F.
Place chicken thighs in a large shallow dish and season with salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing jug, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, vinegar, and minced garlic. Pour about 1/4 cup of the sauce over the chicken (or just enough to lightly coat each thigh) and rotate each thigh to coat evenly in the sauce.
Heat an oven-proof skillet over medium high heat. Sear the chicken skin side down first until golden for about 5 minutes. Turn and repeat on the other side. Drain most of the excess oil from the pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon for added flavor.
Arrange chicken skin-side up in the pan. Add the whole garlic cloves between the chicken. Pour half of the remaining sauce over each thigh (about 1 to 2 tablespoons per thigh) and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. The skin should be crispy and sticky.
While the chicken is baking, pour the remaining sauce into a small pot (or saucepan), and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat down to low and allow to simmer while occasionally stirring. Lift the pot off of the heat when the sauce bubbles up to the rim of your pot, and repeat the process until the sauce has sightly reduced and thickened. This will take about 6 minutes.
Serve with the remaining sauce, lemon zest and slices, and sliced green onions (optional).

Nutrition

Calories: 541.54kcal
Fat: 32.13g
Saturated Fat: 8.74g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.40g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.71g
Carbohydrates: 30.98g
Fiber: 0.23g
Sugar: 28.21g
Protein: 32.59g
Cholesterol: 189.14mg
Sodium: 581.37mg
Calcium: 26.21mg
Potassium: 456.87mg
Iron: 1.59mg
Vitamin A: 44.39µg
Vitamin C: 6.36mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Making Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

To ensure the chicken skin becomes extra crispy, make sure to thoroughly pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning with salt. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing the skin to sear properly and achieve that golden, crispy texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

Marinate in advance: Prepare the chicken thighs and marinate them the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients to ensure it's ready when you need it.

Simmer sauce while baking: Simmer the sauce while the chicken is baking to streamline the process.

One-pan method: Use an oven-proof skillet to sear and bake the chicken in the same pan, reducing cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are leaner and will cook faster, but they can still absorb the flavors well.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and consistency, though it has a slightly different flavor profile.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it is slightly more tart.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar salty and umami flavor.
rice wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can add a slight fruitiness to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the dish well.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic cloves, though it is less pungent and aromatic.
lemon slices and zest - Substitute with orange slices and zest: Orange slices and zest offer a sweeter citrus flavor that can add a unique twist to the dish.
sliced green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

Presentation Ideas for Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken thighs individually on large, elegant plates to highlight their golden, crispy skin. This allows each piece to be the star of the dish.
Use decoration: Garnish with thin lemon slices and a sprinkle of lemon zest around the plate to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Add height: Place the chicken thigh on a small mound of sautéed greens or mashed potatoes to give the dish height and visual interest.
Drizzle sauce artistically: Use a small spoon or squeeze bottle to drizzle the reduced honey lemon garlic sauce in a decorative pattern around the plate, ensuring each bite of chicken has a touch of the flavorful glaze.
Incorporate texture: Add a few crispy garlic cloves around the plate for an extra layer of texture and a burst of roasted garlic flavor.
Finish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely sliced green onions over the top of the chicken to add a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the dish's flavors.
Use a clean, white plate: A pristine white plate will make the colors of the chicken, lemon, and green onions stand out, creating a visually appealing presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

Oven: Used to bake the chicken at a consistent temperature of 360 degrees Fahrenheit.
Large shallow dish: Used to season and marinate the chicken thighs with salt and sauce.
Large mixing jug: Used to whisk together the honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, vinegar, and minced garlic.
Oven-proof skillet: Used to sear the chicken thighs on the stovetop before transferring them to the oven.
Tongs: Used to rotate and handle the chicken thighs while searing and arranging them in the skillet.
Small pot (or saucepan): Used to reduce and thicken the remaining sauce while the chicken is baking.
Whisk: Used to mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the honey, lemon juice, and other liquid ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and minced garlic.
Knife: Used to mince the garlic and slice the green onions.
Cutting board: Used as a surface for mincing garlic and slicing green onions.
Zester: Used to zest the lemon for additional flavor.
Serving platter: Used to serve the finished honey lemon garlic chicken with garnishes.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

Let the honey lemon garlic chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or zip-lock bag. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to soggy skin and spoilage.
Store the leftover chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the chicken fresh for longer.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap or foil and reheat the chicken in the oven as described above.
For best results, consume the frozen honey lemon garlic chicken within 2-3 months. After that, the quality and flavor of the chicken may start to deteriorate.
If you have leftover sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use it as a dipping sauce or brush it onto the chicken before reheating for extra flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover honey lemon garlic chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the chicken while preventing it from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can quickly dry out in the microwave.
If you want to add a bit of extra flavor and crispiness to your leftover chicken, you can reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it is heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a more flavorful option, you can shred the leftover chicken and use it in a variety of dishes. Try adding it to a salad, soup, or stir-fry for a quick and easy meal. The honey lemon garlic flavors will add a delicious twist to any dish.
If you have a lot of leftover sauce, you can use it to baste the chicken while reheating. This will help to keep the chicken moist and add an extra layer of flavor. You can also use the leftover sauce as a dipping sauce for the reheated chicken.

Interesting Fact About Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

A random fact about this recipe is that the combination of honey, lemon, and garlic not only adds a delightful flavor but also provides numerous health benefits. Honey is known for its antibacterial properties, lemon is rich in vitamin C, and garlic has been shown to boost the immune system.

Budget-Friendly: Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This honey lemon garlic chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken thighs, honey, lemon juice, and garlic are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of soy sauce and rice wine vinegar adds a touch of complexity without breaking the bank. For a household of four, the approximate cost would be around $15-$20, making it an economical yet flavorful meal. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe Healthy?

The honey lemon garlic chicken recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it does have some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. The recipe includes a significant amount of honey, which is high in sugar and calories. Additionally, the chicken thighs are a fattier cut of meat, and the skin is left on, which further increases the fat content. The soy sauce also adds sodium to the dish.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as garlic and lemon, which offer various health benefits. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, while lemon provides vitamin C and aids in digestion.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs to reduce the fat content
Reduce the amount of honey used in the sauce, or replace some of it with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia
Use low-sodium soy sauce to decrease the overall sodium content
Increase the amount of garlic and lemon to boost the nutritional value
Serve the chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add more nutrients and fiber to the meal

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of honey lemon garlic chicken while also making it a healthier option. Remember, moderation is key, and this dish can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on This Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

This honey lemon garlic chicken recipe beautifully balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The combination of honey and lemon juice creates a delightful glaze, while the soy sauce and rice wine vinegar add depth. Searing the chicken before baking ensures a crispy skin, and the whole garlic cloves infuse the dish with aromatic richness. The additional step of reducing the sauce enhances its intensity, making it perfect for drizzling. Garnishing with lemon zest, slices, and green onions adds a fresh, vibrant touch. Overall, this recipe is well-crafted and promises a delicious, satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine a creamy bed of potatoes infused with roasted garlic. The velvety texture complements the crispy and sticky chicken, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. A drizzle of the reduced honey lemon sauce over the mashed potatoes will elevate this side dish to new heights.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Picture Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, with crispy edges and a tender center, mingling with savory bits of bacon. The slight bitterness of the sprouts is beautifully offset by the sweetness of the honey lemon garlic sauce, making each bite a delightful contrast of flavors.

Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Almonds: Envision a vibrant quinoa salad, studded with tart cranberries and crunchy almonds. This side dish adds a refreshing and nutty element to your meal, with the citrusy notes of the lemon zest tying everything together. It's a light yet satisfying complement to the rich chicken.

Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan: Think of tender asparagus spears, lightly charred on the grill and sprinkled with freshly grated Parmesan. The smoky flavor of the asparagus pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy chicken, while the Parmesan adds a touch of umami that enhances the overall dish.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Visualize a refreshing salsa made with juicy mango chunks, creamy avocado, and a hint of lime. This vibrant side dish brings a tropical twist to your meal, with the sweetness of the mango and the creaminess of the avocado providing a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs: Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of garlic and butter with these succulent chicken thighs. Perfectly seared and baked to golden perfection, this dish is a delightful main course that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken: Experience the zesty and aromatic combination of lemon and fresh herbs in this roasted chicken recipe. The crispy skin and juicy meat make it an ideal centerpiece for any dinner table, complemented by a side of mashed potatoes or steamed asparagus.

Honey Soy Glazed Chicken: Savor the sweet and savory blend of honey and soy sauce in this glazed chicken recipe. The sticky, caramelized coating adds a burst of flavor to each bite, making it a crowd-pleaser when served with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Garlic Lemon Shrimp Skewers: Elevate your grilling game with these garlic lemon shrimp skewers. The shrimp are marinated in a zesty garlic lemon mixture, then grilled to perfection, offering a light and refreshing option for seafood lovers. Pair with a quinoa salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Transform your favorite vegetables with the bright and bold flavors of lemon and garlic. Roasted to a tender and caramelized finish, this side dish is a versatile addition to any meal, whether served alongside grilled chicken or a hearty pasta dish.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and a hint of garlic. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, creating a bite-sized delight that's perfect for any gathering. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to the heart of Italy with this classic bruschetta. Crisp toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, all drizzled with a touch of extra virgin olive oil. The combination of juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a refreshing and flavorful bite that pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine.

Desserts:

Lemon Meringue Pie: Imagine a Lemon Meringue Pie that perfectly complements your honey lemon garlic chicken. The tangy lemon curd filling, topped with a fluffy meringue, creates a delightful contrast to the savory main course. The crisp crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the light and airy meringue provides a sweet finish. This dessert not only ties in the citrus theme but also offers a refreshing end to your meal.

Honey Lavender Ice Cream: For a unique twist, consider serving Honey Lavender Ice Cream alongside your chicken dish. The creamy texture of the ice cream, infused with floral lavender notes and the sweetness of honey, creates a harmonious balance with the savory flavors of the chicken. The subtle lavender aroma adds an unexpected yet delightful element, making this dessert a memorable conclusion to your culinary experience.

Why trust this Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe:

This honey lemon garlic chicken recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The honey caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky glaze, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing zest. The garlic infuses the chicken with a rich, aromatic depth. Searing the chicken thighs ensures a crispy skin, and baking them locks in all the juices. The additional sauce reduction enhances the dish, making it irresistibly delicious. Trust this recipe for a delightful meal that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Have you tried this Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe? Share your experience and any tips or modifications in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

You’ll know the chicken is fully cooked when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The skin should also be crispy and sticky.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may cook faster than thighs. Adjust the baking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

What can I serve with honey lemon garlic chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. The sauce is great for drizzling over sides too.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight for even more flavor. Just sear and bake when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.