Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Flavorful Dinner Recipe

Name: Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1.33 cup pure honey; 0.25 cup fresh lemon juice; 5 cloves garlic, minced finely; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil; to taste Salt and freshly cracked black pepper; for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped; for garnish Lemon slices

by Evelyn on November 12, 2024

Looking for a dinner that bursts with flavor? Try my Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken! This easy recipe combines sweet honey, zesty lemon, and savory garlic to create a dish your family will love. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step, from selecting the right chicken to perfect cooking methods. Plus, I’ll share tips to keep your chicken juicy and delicious. Get ready to impress at dinner time!

$- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1/3 cup pure honey - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons) - 5 cloves of garlic, minced finely - 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste These ingredients form the base of our dish. The chicken brings protein, while honey and lemon give a sweet and tangy flavor. Garlic adds depth and aroma. Soy sauce adds umami, and Dijon mustard gives a slight kick. Olive oil helps with cooking and adds richness. - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Lemon slices (for garnish) Garnishes make your dish pop. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Lemon slices brighten the plate and enhance flavors. They also offer a visual appeal that invites you to dig in. Accurate measuring is key for great results. Use a liquid measuring cup for honey and lemon juice. For dry ingredients, like salt and pepper, use measuring spoons. Always level off your measuring cups and spoons for precision. This ensures your marinade tastes just right. If you want a little more or less flavor, adjust to your taste. Cooking should be fun and personal! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need honey, lemon juice, garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. In a medium bowl, mix them well. Use a whisk to blend everything together. This mix creates a sweet and tangy flavor that makes the chicken shine. Don't forget to add a pinch of salt and black pepper for taste. Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. If you can, let it marinate for 1 to 2 hours. This step helps the chicken absorb all the great flavors. You have two great options for cooking: grilling or baking. If you choose to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Remember to baste with the leftover marinade for extra flavor during the last few minutes. If you prefer to bake, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat. Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step helps keep the juices locked in. Serve the chicken with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a nice finish. Enjoy your meal! Marinating chicken is key to great taste. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, aim for 1-2 hours. The honey, lemon, and garlic soak into the meat. This makes each bite full of flavor. If you can, prep the marinade the night before. Let it work its magic overnight for a deeper taste. Cooking chicken perfectly is easy with the right timing. For grilling, cook each side for 6-7 minutes. If baking, aim for 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The safe temperature is 165°F (75°C). Rest the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy and tender. To keep chicken moist, don't overcook it. Use the marinade to baste while cooking. This adds flavor and moisture. Also, let the chicken rest after cooking. Cutting it too soon can let the juices escape. Lastly, consider using a meat thermometer. This helps you cook to the right temperature every time. Pro Tips Marinate Longer for Depth: For a more robust flavor, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours, or even overnight if time permits. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor or spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite. {{image_4}} You can boost your Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken by adding veggies. Bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots work well. Chop them into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in the marinade with the chicken. This adds color, flavor, and nutrition to your meal. You can roast or grill the veggies alongside the chicken. They will soak up the tasty marinade too! If you prefer other proteins, use shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and takes on flavor quickly. Just marinate it for 15-20 minutes. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm tofu. Press it to remove excess water, then cube it. Marinate the tofu just like the chicken. Both swaps keep the dish tasty and fun. Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade. Start with a pinch and taste as you go. You can also use fresh jalapeños for a fresh kick. If you prefer mild flavors, stick to the basic recipe. This lets you make the dish just how you like it! After enjoying your Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This will keep the chicken fresh and safe. Allow the chicken to cool before sealing. It’s best to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. Proper storage helps prevent spoilage and keeps flavors intact. To reheat your chicken, use the oven for even cooking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps moisture in and prevents drying. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. If you want to save your Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. This way, you can enjoy your chicken for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. The cooking time will change. Bone-in chicken often needs more time to cook through. Make sure to adjust the cooking time to 30-40 minutes in the oven. On the grill, cook for about 8-10 minutes per side. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you lack fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice. Use the same amount as in the recipe. The flavor might differ slightly, but it will still taste good. You can also try lime juice as a substitute. Both options give a tangy taste that works well with honey and garlic. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The meat should be white and juices should run clear. If it’s pink or looks raw, cook it longer. This blog covered key steps for a tasty chicken dish. We discussed essential ingredients, marinade preparation, and the best cooking methods, like grilling or baking. I shared tips to keep your chicken juicy and variations to suit your taste. You learned how to store leftovers and answered common questions. Follow these steps, and you’ll create delicious meals. Cooking can be fun, simple, and satisfying with practice. Enjoy your culinary adventure!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, lemon, and garlic creates a deliciously balanced flavor that is both sweet and savory.
Healthy Option: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps this dish light and healthy, packed with protein.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you grill or bake, this recipe adapts easily to your cooking preferences, ensuring great results every time.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade Essentials

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1/3 cup pure honey

– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

– 5 cloves of garlic, minced finely

– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

– 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

These ingredients form the base of our dish. The chicken brings protein, while honey and lemon give a sweet and tangy flavor. Garlic adds depth and aroma. Soy sauce adds umami, and Dijon mustard gives a slight kick. Olive oil helps with cooking and adds richness.

Additional Garnishes

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Lemon slices (for garnish)

Garnishes make your dish pop. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Lemon slices brighten the plate and enhance flavors. They also offer a visual appeal that invites you to dig in.

Measuring Tips for Accuracy

Accurate measuring is key for great results. Use a liquid measuring cup for honey and lemon juice. For dry ingredients, like salt and pepper, use measuring spoons. Always level off your measuring cups and spoons for precision. This ensures your marinade tastes just right. If you want a little more or less flavor, adjust to your taste. Cooking should be fun and personal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Marinade

Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need honey, lemon juice, garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. In a medium bowl, mix them well. Use a whisk to blend everything together. This mix creates a sweet and tangy flavor that makes the chicken shine. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and black pepper for taste.

Marinating the Chicken

Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. If you can, let it marinate for 1 to 2 hours. This step helps the chicken absorb all the great flavors.

Cooking Methods: Grilling vs. Baking

You have two great options for cooking: grilling or baking. If you choose to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Remember to baste with the leftover marinade for extra flavor during the last few minutes.

If you prefer to bake, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat.

Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step helps keep the juices locked in. Serve the chicken with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a nice finish. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor with Marinade Time

Marinating chicken is key to great taste. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, aim for 1-2 hours. The honey, lemon, and garlic soak into the meat. This makes each bite full of flavor. If you can, prep the marinade the night before. Let it work its magic overnight for a deeper taste.

Perfect Cooking Times for Juicy Chicken

Cooking chicken perfectly is easy with the right timing. For grilling, cook each side for 6-7 minutes. If baking, aim for 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The safe temperature is 165°F (75°C). Rest the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy and tender.

How to Avoid Dry Chicken Breasts

To keep chicken moist, don’t overcook it. Use the marinade to baste while cooking. This adds flavor and moisture. Also, let the chicken rest after cooking. Cutting it too soon can let the juices escape. Lastly, consider using a meat thermometer. This helps you cook to the right temperature every time.

Pro Tips

Marinate Longer for Depth: For a more robust flavor, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours, or even overnight if time permits. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor or spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Rest Before Slicing: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.

Variations

Adding Vegetables for a Complete Meal

You can boost your Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken by adding veggies. Bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots work well. Chop them into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in the marinade with the chicken. This adds color, flavor, and nutrition to your meal. You can roast or grill the veggies alongside the chicken. They will soak up the tasty marinade too!

Alternative Protein Options

If you prefer other proteins, use shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and takes on flavor quickly. Just marinate it for 15-20 minutes. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm tofu. Press it to remove excess water, then cube it. Marinate the tofu just like the chicken. Both swaps keep the dish tasty and fun.

Spice Level Adjustments

Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade. Start with a pinch and taste as you go. You can also use fresh jalapeños for a fresh kick. If you prefer mild flavors, stick to the basic recipe. This lets you make the dish just how you like it!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers Safely

After enjoying your Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This will keep the chicken fresh and safe. Allow the chicken to cool before sealing. It’s best to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. Proper storage helps prevent spoilage and keeps flavors intact.

Reheating Tips for Best Results

To reheat your chicken, use the oven for even cooking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps moisture in and prevents drying. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

Freezing for Future Meals

If you want to save your Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. This way, you can enjoy your chicken for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. The cooking time will change. Bone-in chicken often needs more time to cook through. Make sure to adjust the cooking time to 30-40 minutes in the oven. On the grill, cook for about 8-10 minutes per side. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

If you lack fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice. Use the same amount as in the recipe. The flavor might differ slightly, but it will still taste good. You can also try lime juice as a substitute. Both options give a tangy taste that works well with honey and garlic.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The meat should be white and juices should run clear. If it’s pink or looks raw, cook it longer.

This blog covered key steps for a tasty chicken dish. We discussed essential ingredients, marinade preparation, and the best cooking methods, like grilling or baking. I shared tips to keep your chicken juicy and variations to suit your taste. You learned how to store leftovers and answered common questions. Follow these steps, and you’ll create delicious meals. Cooking can be fun, simple, and satisfying with practice. Enjoy your culinary adventur

Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Delight

A flavorful chicken dish marinated in honey, lemon, and garlic, perfect for grilling or baking.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1.33 cup pure honey
0.25 cup fresh lemon juice
5 cloves garlic, minced finely
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
to taste Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped
for garnish Lemon slices

Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the honey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper. Whisk the mixture until all ingredients are well blended, creating a flavorful marinade.
Transfer the chicken breasts to a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is generously coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though marinating for 1-2 hours will yield a more intense flavor.
Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal cooking.
After marination, remove the chicken from the bag or dish, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting during cooking.
Grilling Method: Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, basting with the reserved marinade during the final minutes of cooking for added flavor.
Oven Method: Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (75°C), basting with the marinade halfway through cooking.
Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing; this helps retain the juices.
To serve, plate the chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices to add a vibrant touch and a burst of freshness.

Notes

Marinating for 1-2 hours enhances the flavor.

Keyword chicken, grilled, honey, lemon, marinated