Honey Lime Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with the honey adding a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tartness of fresh lime juice. The chicken thighs turn out incredibly juicy, thanks to the quick sear followed by simmering in the honey-lime mixture. Not only is it full of flavor, but the recipe is simple and quick, requiring only 10 minutes of prep and around 30 minutes of cook time. It’s an easy, yet impressive, dish that will make you feel like a top chef in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 7 chicken thighs (about 7 or 8 chicken thighs, depending on the size of your skillet)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 green onions, chopped

• 1 lime, sliced (for garnish only)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine lime juice, honey, and soy sauce.

2. Salt the chicken thighs with ½ teaspoon of salt (or more if preferred) thoroughly, ensuring it's applied all over, including under the skin.

3. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a 12-inch skillet. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken skin becomes nicely browned (make sure the skin is deeply browned, not just pale, for the best presentation).

4. Turn the chicken thighs so that the skin side is facing up and pour the lime-honey mixture over the chicken. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for an additional 14 to 18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 180°F.

5. Once the chicken is done, transfer it to plates. Drizzle the pan juices over the chicken and top with chopped green onions. Garnish with lime slices and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Honey Lime Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the honey-lime mixture for a spicy kick.

• Grilled Version: Instead of pan-roasting, marinate the chicken thighs in the honey-lime mixture for 30 minutes and then grill them for a smoky flavor.

• Honey Lime Chicken with Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions to the pan along with the chicken to make a one-pan meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. Cover and heat for 5 to 7 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay juicier. If you use chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the marinade and season the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, then cook it when you're ready.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice will provide the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used as a substitute in a pinch.

Is there a substitute for honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a slightly different sweetness profile.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid, or add a small cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts or even drumsticks, but the cooking time will vary.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 180°F. The chicken should be tender and juicy when done.

Can I make this recipe with a different citrus?

You can use lemon or orange juice instead of lime for a different citrus flavor.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

If you’re looking for a soy-free option, you can substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

These Honey Lime Chicken Thighs are a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe in your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you enjoy it with some roasted vegetables or a simple side salad, it's guaranteed to please!

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Honey Lime Chicken Thighs

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Pan-roasted honey lime chicken thighs are a quick and delicious dish that combines sweet honey and tangy lime for a flavorful glaze that complements juicy, tender chicken.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

4 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon soy sauce

7 chicken thighs (about 7 or 8, depending on skillet size)

½ teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 green onions, chopped

1 lime, sliced (for garnish only)

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine lime juice, honey, and soy sauce.
2. Salt the chicken thighs with ½ teaspoon of salt (or more if preferred), ensuring it's applied all over, including under the skin.
3. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a 12-inch skillet. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken skin becomes nicely browned.
4. Turn the chicken thighs so that the skin side is facing up and pour the lime-honey mixture over the chicken. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for an additional 14 to 18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 180°F.
5. Once the chicken is done, transfer it to plates. Drizzle the pan juices over the chicken and top with chopped green onions. Garnish with lime slices and serve.

Notes

• You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the honey-lime mixture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If using chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
• Fresh lime juice provides the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg