Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken: The Ultimate Chicken Recipe
Introduction to Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken
Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the sweetness of honey. This easy-to-follow recipe brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table, making it a favorite for family meals or entertaining guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and satisfying. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful dish!
A Personal Story Behind My Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter over delicious meals. One of my favorite memories is when my grandmother introduced us to her special lemon honey chicken recipe. The aroma that filled the kitchen was irresistible, and the sweet, sticky glaze was a hit with everyone. I’ve taken her recipe and added my own twist, making it a staple in my own home. Now, I’m excited to share this cherished dish with you!
What Makes This Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out due to its unique blend of flavors and simple preparation. The combination of honey and lemon creates a glaze that is both sweet and tart, complementing the juicy chicken perfectly. Plus, it’s quick to make, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The use of cornstarch adds a delightful crunch to the chicken, while the garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic flavor. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience!
The Full Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup honey
- 2/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This will help achieve a nice brown crust on the chicken.
- In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside. This glaze will bring the dish together.
- Cut the chicken breasts into strips, ensuring they are of even size for uniform cooking.
- In a medium bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, and black pepper. Coat the chicken strips with this mixture. This step gives the chicken its crispy texture.
- Place the coated chicken strips in the skillet and cook over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Add butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Pour the honey glaze mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- While the glaze is cooking, spoon it continuously over the chicken to ensure each piece is well-coated and flavorful.
- Serve the sweet and sticky honey garlic chicken over steamed rice, and don’t forget to drizzle some extra glaze over the top for that extra flavor!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, but you can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter meal. For a fun twist, try adding some sliced bell peppers or snap peas to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and added nutrition. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe and will give you a juicier result.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and glaze ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and cook when ready to serve.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 380
- Servings: 4
Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken
Equipment
- Large Skillet For cooking the chicken and glaze.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 breasts chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup honey
- 2 thirds cup soy sauce
- 1 half cup lemon juice
- 1 fourth cup rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts into strips, ensuring they are of even size for uniform cooking.
- In a medium bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, and black pepper. Coat the chicken strips with this mixture.
- Place the coated chicken strips in the skillet and cook over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Add butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Pour the honey glaze mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- While the glaze is cooking, spoon it continuously over the chicken to ensure each piece is well-coated and flavorful.
- Serve the sweet and sticky honey garlic chicken over steamed rice, and don’t forget to drizzle some extra glaze over the top for that extra flavor!