Honey Lime Glazed Chicken Thighs
This Honey Lime Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with the perfect balance of sweetness, citrusy tang, and a touch of spice. The caramelized honey glaze combined with fresh lime makes this dish irresistible. It’s great for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Honey Lime Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
For Garnish:
- Fresh lime slices
- Chopped cilantro or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
For Stovetop & Oven Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
For Stovetop Only:
- Cook chicken over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Step 3: Make the Honey Lime Glaze
- In a small saucepan, whisk together honey, soy sauce, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, red pepper flakes, and Dijon mustard.
- Simmer over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Glaze the Chicken
- Brush or spoon the glaze over the cooked chicken thighs.
- Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes in the pan to caramelize the glaze.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
- Garnish with fresh lime slices and chopped cilantro.
- Serve with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
✔ Pat the chicken dry – This helps get a crispy sear.
✔ Adjust spice level – Add more or less red pepper flakes based on your preference.
✔ Use fresh lime juice – It makes a big difference in flavor!
✔ Thicken the glaze – If you want a thicker glaze, let it simmer for an extra minute.
✔ Meal prep friendly – Store extra chicken and glaze separately for reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values based on bone-in chicken thighs with glaze)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 450mg
Health Benefits
✅ High in Protein – Supports muscle growth and keeps you full.
✅ Rich in Antioxidants – Lime juice and garlic help fight inflammation.
✅ Balanced Flavor – A perfect mix of sweet, savory, and tangy.
✅ Boosts Immunity – Honey and lime provide immune-supporting nutrients.
✅ Heart-Healthy – Olive oil and lean protein promote heart health.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes! Adjust cooking time since breasts cook faster (about 18-20 minutes in the oven).
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this dish in the air fryer?
A: Absolutely! Cook chicken thighs at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: What can I serve with this?
A: Try jasmine rice, roasted sweet potatoes, or a fresh cucumber salad.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes! Marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for extra flavor.
This Honey Lime Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. The sweet and tangy glaze makes every bite delicious, and it’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests!