Quick and Juicy Honey Lime Chicken Dinner

Looking for a recipe that’s fast, flavorful, and fancy enough to impress? Look no further than Honey Lime Chicken! With its perfect balance of tangy lime, sweet honey, and savory garlic, this dish is your weeknight dinner hero. And here’s the kicker—you’ll only need under an hour to whip up this golden, juicy masterpiece! Whether paired with fluffy white rice or roasted vegetables, this chicken is a surefire way to elevate your mealtime game. Let’s get cooking and make this delicious dish your new favorite recipe!

How to Make a Honey Lime Chicken Dinner Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Marination Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

A plate of Honey Lime Chicken for dinner.

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs with skin and bone
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon honey
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Cooked white rice (or roasted vegetables for serving)

Instructions

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, crushed garlic, and soy sauce. Stir until the honey is completely dissolved, creating a smooth marinade.

2. Place the chicken thighs into the bowl and toss to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Zulay Says: Marinating overnight intensifies the flavors.

3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

4. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the leftover marinade for later) and pat it dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down, and sear for 7 minutes without disturbing them. This allows the skin to get golden brown and crispy.

5. Flip the chicken thighs over and sear the other side for an additional 4 minutes. Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken.

A plate of Honey Lime Chicken for lunch.

6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). The marinade will bubble and caramelize, adding even more flavor.

7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with fluffy white rice, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Don’t forget to drizzle the pan juices over your plate for extra flavor!

Honey Lime Chicken Tips and Variations

The longer you marinate the chicken, the deeper the flavors. Overnight marination works wonders!
Don’t skip the sear. Searing locks in the juices and gives the chicken a beautiful golden crust.
Check the temperature regularly. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Honey Lime Chicken Variations

For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
You can toss in fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Swap the protein. This marinade works just as well with chicken breasts, drumsticks, or even pork chops.
Grill it. Fire up the grill instead of using the skillet for a smoky twist.

A plate of Honey Lime Chicken with potatoes.

Health Benefits of Honey Lime Chicken

Lean Protein: Chicken thighs provide high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.
Immunity Boost: Garlic and lime juice are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, aiding in immune support.
Natural Sweetness: Honey is a healthier alternative to processed sugars, providing just a touch of sweetness.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve with a low-carb side like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.

Make Honey Lime Chicken Today!

Honey Lime Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser that balances simplicity and bold flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The tangy, sweet, and savory notes will have everyone reaching for seconds. And with its quick preparation and versatile serving options, it’s a dish you’ll come back to time and again.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large Ovenproof Skillet: For seamless stovetop-to-oven cooking.
Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Citrus Juicer: To get every drop of juice from your lime.
Garlic Press: Makes crushing garlic quick and easy.

Find these tools and more at Zulay Kitchen for all your culinary needs.

Share the Love!

Love this recipe? Share it on social media, tag @zulaykitchen, and use #kitchenhappiness and #honeylimechicken. Your friends and family will thank you for introducing them to this delicious dish. Happy cooking!

Honey Lime Chicken with tomato garnish

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on thighs provide more flavor and juiciness, boneless thighs work well too. Just reduce the oven cooking time by a couple of minutes to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover Honey Lime Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken stock to keep it moist.

Can I freeze marinated chicken?

Yes! Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag, remove excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.