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–+ servings
recipe image of a realistic top down mise en place shot showing chicken thighs or breasts honey lime juice lime zest soy sauce garlic olive oil or sesame oil ginger chili powder red pepper flakes sriracha cilantro sesame seeds arranged on a white marble kitchen counter with healthy clear glass bowls and rustic brown wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight
Benjamin

Tangy Honey Lime Chicken

This tangy honey lime chicken recipe offers a perfect balance of zesty citrus and golden sweetness, transforming a simple weeknight dinner into a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup high quality honey
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder for a subtle kick
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
  • to taste salt for seasoning chicken
  • to taste pepper for seasoning chicken
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet,
  • Mixing bowl
  • - Whisk
  • paper towels.

Method
 

Prepare the Marinade
  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chili powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This creates a flavorful marinade that doubles as a glaze.
Season the Chicken
  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper to taste. This helps the marinade adhere and enhances flavor.
Sear the Meat
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
Glaze the Chicken
  1. Once the chicken is nearly done, pour the honey lime mixture directly into the skillet. Let it simmer and bubble for about 2 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken to create a sticky coating.
Rest and Serve
  1. Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for 3 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with extra lime wedges if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 40gFat: 10g

Notes

Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to maintain juiciness. Pair with jasmine rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
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