Honey Lemon Grilled Chicken is a flavorful, juicy dish featuring a sweet and tangy marinade made with honey, fresh lemon juice, and savory seasonings. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. The balance of citrus and sweetness enhances the chicken’s natural flavors, making it a light yet satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and Refreshing Flavors – The combination of honey and lemon creates the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
- Juicy and Tender Chicken – The marinade keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Easy and Quick – Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this an effortless dish.
- Great for Grilling or Pan-Searing – Works well on an outdoor grill or stovetop.
- Healthy and Versatile – A lean protein dish that pairs with various sides.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Honey
- Fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Dijon mustard
- Soy sauce
- Salt and black pepper
- Dried oregano (or thyme)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Directions
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Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
-
Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high (about 375-400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
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Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra lemon slices or fresh herbs if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Baked Version: Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes or until fully cooked.
- Pan-Seared Option: Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Herb Infused: Use fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for extra flavor.
- Asian Twist: Add a teaspoon of ginger and replace Dijon mustard with sesame oil.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs stay juicier and work well with this marinade.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours.
Can I make this dish without a grill?
Yes! You can bake it in the oven or cook it in a skillet.
What sides go well with honey lemon grilled chicken?
Rice, roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad are great pairings.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
Can I double the marinade for extra sauce?
Yes, but boil any leftover marinade before using it as a sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free, or use tamari as a substitute.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, marinate the chicken the night before for easy cooking the next day.
What’s the best way to check if the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Honey Lemon Grilled Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With its juicy texture, bright citrusy taste, and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this dish pairs well with various sides, making it a versatile and delicious meal choice. Try it today for a fresh and healthy dinner option!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Juicy, grilled chicken glazed with a tangy honey-lemon sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Mix honey, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate chicken for 30 minutes.
- Grill for 6-8 minutes per side.
- Brush with extra marinade and serve.
Notes
- Use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes if not grilling.
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