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Honey Lemon Chicken

Honey Lemon Chicken
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Honey Lemon Chicken is a quick and easy dish that combines succulent chicken with a zesty lemon and sweet honey glaze. This recipe balances bright citrus flavors with natural sweetness and savory depth, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Using simple, fresh ingredients, it delivers a versatile and family-friendly meal that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1–2 lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for cooking)

Seasoning

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Additions

  • Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for spicy variation)
  • Additional vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli (for vegetable boost)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. This helps achieve a nice sear and locks in moisture for juicy meat.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside, keeping the pan juices.
  3. Make the Honey Lemon Sauce: Using the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, and soy sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
  4. Combine and Glaze: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and spoon the honey lemon sauce over each piece. Cook together for 2-3 more minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors and develops a shiny glaze.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for the best flavor—bottled lemon juice cannot replicate the brightness of fresh.
  • Do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy; chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Adjust honey quantity to your preference if you like a sweeter or more tangy glaze.
  • Allow cooked chicken to rest a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
  • Use a nonstick or well-seasoned pan to prevent sticking and promote even browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey Lemon Chicken, quick chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, gluten free chicken, honey lemon glaze, family friendly chicken

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/honey-lemon-chicken/