Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 13 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 5 servings

Description

A flavorful and easy Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and tangy sauce made from honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, and garlic. This dish is seared to develop a crispy skin and baked to perfection, garnished with fresh lemon slices and green onions for a bright finish.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 5 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 pinch salt (to taste)

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (fresh squeezed or juice of 1 lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
  • 2 heaping tablespoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)

Additional

  • 6 cloves garlic (peeled, whole)
  • 4 lemon slices (and zest, for garnish)
  • 1 handful green onions (sliced, for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C) to prepare for baking the chicken thighs.
  2. Season Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large shallow dish and season generously with salt. Set aside to allow the salt to penetrate the meat.
  3. Make Sauce and Marinate: In a large mixing jug, whisk together honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined. Pour about 1/4 cup of this sauce over the chicken, rotating each piece to ensure even coating.
  4. Sear Chicken: Heat an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5 minutes. Flip and sear the other side briefly. Drain excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
  5. Bake Chicken: Arrange chicken skin-side up in the skillet. Nestle whole garlic cloves between the chicken pieces. Pour half of the remaining sauce evenly over the chicken (1-2 tablespoons per piece). Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes, until cooked through and juices run clear, with crispy, sticky skin.
  6. Reduce Sauce: Meanwhile, pour the remaining sauce into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, lifting the pot off heat if it bubbles over, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 6 minutes.
  7. Serve: Serve the baked chicken thighs with the reduced sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with lemon zest, lemon slices, and sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Use bone-in skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust salt according to your taste preference.
  • Make sure to sear the chicken skin well to get a crispy texture before baking.
  • Keep an eye on the sauce while reducing to prevent burning or overflowing.
  • Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American