Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

BY

|

Update : May 6, 2026

Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken dish garnished with fresh herbs

Why Make This Recipe

Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken is a delicious dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. It’s perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. The combination of honey and lemon creates a tangy glaze that pairs well with the juicy chicken. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t take much time, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

How to Make Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

To prepare this tasty dish, you’ll need to follow a few simple steps.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken thighs, skin on and boneless
  • Salt and pepper, to season
  • Cornstarch
  • 3 tbsp of butter
  • 5 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp of soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp of mirin
  • 2 tbsp of honey
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 tbsp of lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp of paprika
  • 1/2 tsp of chili flakes
  • 1/2 tsp of black pepper
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Chives for garnish

Directions

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Lightly coat the chicken in cornstarch.
  2. Heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and cook for about 7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  3. In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the soy sauce, mirin, honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, chili flakes, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens.
  4. Place the chicken back into the pan and spoon the sauce over it. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  5. Serve the Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken over steamed rice and drizzle extra sauce on top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chives.

How to Serve Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

You can serve Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a complete meal. The extra sauce can be drizzled on top for added flavor. Feel free to add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal.

How to Store Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

To store any leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Tips to Make Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken

  • Make sure to keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks to prevent burning.
  • You can adjust the amount of honey and lemon to match your taste preferences.
  • If you want a little extra heat, feel free to add more chili flakes.

Variation

If you want to try something different, you can substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breasts. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to the pan while cooking to make it a one-pan meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require a shorter cooking time.

2. Is there a substitute for mirin?
Yes, you can use a mix of rice vinegar and a little sugar as a substitute for mirin.

3. Can I freeze Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it. Make sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months.

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


  • Author: jena
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A sweet and savory chicken dish with a tangy glaze, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 chicken thighs, skin on and boneless
  • Salt and pepper, to season
  • Cornstarch
  • 3 tbsp of butter
  • 5 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp of soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp of mirin
  • 2 tbsp of honey
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 tbsp of lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp of paprika
  • 1/2 tsp of chili flakes
  • 1/2 tsp of black pepper
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Chives for garnish

Instructions

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Lightly coat the chicken in cornstarch.
  2. Heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and cook for about 7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  3. In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the soy sauce, mirin, honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, chili flakes, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens.
  5. Place the chicken back into the pan and spoon the sauce over it. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  6. Serve the Honey Lemon Garlic Chicken over steamed rice and drizzle extra sauce on top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chives.

Notes

Adjust the amount of honey and lemon to your taste. Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: chicken, honey lemon, garlic chicken, Asian cuisine, easy dinner

Keep your apron on!!! the party’s not over yet!

Delicious blueberry quesadilla with melted cheese and fresh blueberries.
Salads & Bowls

Blueberry Breakfast Quesadilla

Why Make This Recipe Blueberry Breakfast Quesadilla is a delightful and easy way to start your day. Not only is it quick to prepare, but
Jena Ellison
May 12, 2026
Plated Mexican Eggs Benedict with poached eggs, tortillas, and colorful toppings.
Plates & Stacks

Mexican Eggs Benedict

This Mexican Eggs Benedict is a delicious twist on a classic breakfast dish. By incorporating spicy chorizo, creamy avocado, and a chipotle hollandaise sauce, this
Jack Ellison
May 12, 2026
Delicious golden sopaipillas served with honey and powdered sugar
Sweets & Treats

Sopaipillas

Sopaipillas are delightful, fluffy deep-fried pastries that are popular in many Latin American countries. These treats are often served as a side or dessert, and
Jena Ellison
May 12, 2026

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating