Name: Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces chicken breasts; 1 piece zucchini squash (cut into rounds and then quartered); 1 piece fresh lemon (for zest and juice); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup honey; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon lemon pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons butter

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There’s something magical about the combination of flavors in Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken. I still remember the first time I tasted it at a friend’s dinner party. The sweet and tangy aroma filled the air, making my mouth water with anticipation. As I took my first bite, the juicy chicken melded perfectly with the sticky honey glaze, creating a delightful balance that left me craving more. Ever since that night, I’ve been on a mission to replicate this dish in my kitchen. No matter the occasion, it’s become my go-to recipe for impressing family and friends.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Large Cast Iron Pan

What’s Great About This Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken

Unmatched Flavor Profile

The blend of honey and lemon is a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the honey complements the tartness of the lemon, creating a sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser.

A Quick and Easy Meal

When life gets busy, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. This Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken can be made in no time! With just a few simple ingredients and quick steps, you can serve up a delicious meal that feels like it took all day to prepare.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish fits right in. The elegant presentation combined with the delightful flavors makes it perfect for any occasion, be it a casual family meal or a festive celebration.

Healthy and Wholesome

Aside from being incredibly tasty, this recipe is packed with nutrition. The use of fresh ingredients like zucchini and lemon not only enhances the flavor but also provides essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a wholesome meal you can feel good about serving.

Kid-Friendly Appeal

If you have picky eaters at home, they are bound to love this dish. The sweetness of the honey makes it appealing to kids, while the lemon adds just the right amount of zing. It’s a great way to introduce new flavors to their palate.

Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s nothing like a comforting plate of Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken to bring people together. It evokes warm memories of family dinners and laughter around the table, making it a dish that’s not just about food but about connection.

What’s In This Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken

The ingredients for Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken are simple yet magical. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Fresh chicken, zucchini, and the dynamic duo of honey and lemon come together to create a dish that’s truly special.

2 whole chicken breasts: The star of the dish, juicy and tender when cooked correctly.
1 whole zucchini squash: Adds a lovely texture and a nutritious element.
1 whole fresh lemon: Essential for zest and juice, it brightens the entire dish.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the chicken to golden perfection.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a crispy coating on the chicken.
1/2 cup honey: Provides the sweetness that balances the dish.
2 tablespoons minced garlic: Adds depth and savory flavor.
2 teaspoons soy sauce: Enhances the umami flavor.
1 teaspoon lemon pepper: A seasoning that complements the lemon perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon salt: For seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and color.
2 tablespoons butter: Enriches the sauce and adds flavor.

Step by Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken

Cooking Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish!

Prepare the Skillet: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast iron pan over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers. This is essential for achieving that delicious golden-brown crust on your chicken.
Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix together 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon lemon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides. This step is crucial for a crispy texture.
Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet. Fry for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part for safety.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup honey, the zest and juice of 1 fresh lemon, 2 tablespoons minced garlic, and 2 teaspoons soy sauce. This is where the magic happens! The sauce will be sweet, tangy, and full of flavor. Set it aside for now.
Cook the Zucchini: After removing the chicken, add the quartered zucchini rounds and 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Position them around the chicken and cook over medium heat for about 3 to 4 minutes, until tender. This adds a beautiful color and texture to your dish.
Add the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the chicken and zucchini. Allow it to heat together for about 1 minute. You’ll see the sauce thicken slightly and coat everything beautifully.
Serve: Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the chicken and zucchini hot, garnished with sliced lemon if desired. Enjoy your delicious, home-cooked meal!

Things Worth Knowing

Resting Period: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices, making the meat tender and flavorful.
Thickness Matters: If you find your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider butterflying them for even cooking. This ensures they cook through without burning the coating.
Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey garlic mixture for a couple of hours before cooking.
Zucchini Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for a more colorful and nutritious dish.

Substitutions and Tips

When preparing Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken, consider the following tips for the best results:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet.
Pairing: Serve this dish over rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious honey garlic sauce. It also pairs well with a fresh salad.
Meal Prep: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the chicken and zucchini when ready to serve!
Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding spices like ginger or chili flakes to the sauce for an interesting twist.
Slicing Chicken: For the best presentation, slice the chicken against the grain before serving. This will make it more tender and flavorful.

What Complements This Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken

To enhance your dining experience, consider serving Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken with some delicious side dishes and tips:

Fluffy Rice: A bed of fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up all that flavorful sauce. Jasmine or basmati rice works beautifully.
Steamed Veggies: Add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a nutritious and colorful plate.
Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers, bringing everyone together with its delightful flavors.
Quick Lunch Option: Leftovers make for a quick and satisfying lunch. Just reheat, and you’re good to go!
Seasonal Touch: In summer, consider serving with a side of corn on the cob or fresh tomatoes for a seasonal twist.

FAQ

When it comes to sides, Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or a light salad. You can also consider adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a nutritious balance. These options enhance the dish while allowing the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken to shine.

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the honey garlic mixture for a few hours or overnight can intensify the flavors. This step not only infuses the meat with more taste but also helps keep it moist during cooking, resulting in even more delicious Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken.

The best way to ensure your chicken is safely cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, and it should read at least 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that any harmful bacteria are killed, ensuring that your Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken is both safe and juicy.

Definitely! While the recipe features zucchini, feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Bell peppers, asparagus, or even mushrooms can add variety and color to your dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetables you choose.

Conclusion

The Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken is truly a standout dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. With its perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, it’s hard not to fall in love with every bite. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the wonderful taste for yourself. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken delivers a tantalizing blend of sweet and tangy flavors that are simply irresistible. Juicy chicken coated in a sticky honey glaze makes for an easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress. Try it tonight for a delicious meal your family will love!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 pieces chicken breasts
1 piece zucchini squash cut into rounds and then quartered
1 piece fresh lemon for zest and juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup honey
2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon lemon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons butter

Equipment

Large Cast Iron Pan

Method

Prepare the Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast iron pan over medium-high heat until hot.
Coat the Chicken: Mix together 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon lemon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika in a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
Fry the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the hot oil and fry for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, until well browned.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup honey, the zest and juice of 1 fresh lemon, 2 tablespoons minced garlic, and 2 teaspoons soy sauce. Set this honey garlic sauce aside.
Cook the Zucchini: Add the quartered zucchini rounds and 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet, positioning them around the chicken. Continue to cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes.
Add the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken and zucchini. Let everything heat together for 1 minute.
Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the chicken and zucchini hot, garnished with sliced lemon if desired.