This lemon honey glazed chicken has been my saving grace on countless busy weeknights. The sweet and tangy glaze creates a beautiful caramelized coating that makes even picky eaters ask for seconds, and it comes together in just 30 minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken
I always start with quality chicken breasts that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. My go-to is organic chicken when possible, but any fresh boneless, skinless breasts work beautifully. The glaze is where the magic happens, and I’ve perfected this ratio to get that sweet-tangy balance just right.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey (I recommend local wildflower honey for the best flavor)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (In my experience, fresh zest makes all the difference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary – I usually use fresh for maximum flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend having all your ingredients prepped and measured before you start cooking, as this recipe moves quickly once you begin. This approach ensures you can focus on getting that perfect golden crust and glossy glaze without scrambling.
Step 1: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side without moving them, until they develop a golden crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, and lemon zest to the same skillet. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture bubbles gently and coats the back of a spoon. Pro tip: Don’t let the garlic burn or it will taste bitter.
Step 4: Stir in the fresh thyme and rosemary, then add the butter. Continue stirring until the butter melts completely and creates a smooth, glossy glaze. If your glaze seems too thin, simmer for another 30 seconds.
Step 5: Return the rested chicken to the skillet and turn each piece to coat thoroughly with the glaze. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chicken to build up that beautiful coating.
Step 6: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while the glaze is still warm and glossy.
Perfect Pairings for Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken
This bright, flavorful dish pairs beautifully with sides that complement its sweet and tangy profile while adding textural contrast.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The earthy, slightly bitter notes of roasted asparagus cut through the sweetness of the honey glaze while adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: A light, fluffy rice pilaf with fresh herbs soaks up the extra glaze beautifully and provides a neutral base that lets the chicken’s flavors shine without competing for attention.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes: Crispy-edged potatoes seasoned with rosemary and garlic echo the herbaceous notes in the chicken while adding heartiness that makes this a complete, satisfying meal.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with a light lemon vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast and adds nutritional balance, making this perfect for lighter spring and summer dinners.
Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies: The mild, slightly sweet flavor of roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully with the lemon glaze, and adds fiber and vitamins to round out your family’s nutritional needs.
One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Sweet Potatoes: For a heartier pairing, sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness that complements the honey glaze while adding complex carbohydrates and beta-carotene.
Storage & Serving Tips
Store leftover lemon honey glazed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The glaze may thicken when chilled, but it will loosen up beautifully when reheated. Look for any off odors or slimy texture before consuming leftovers.
For best results, I recommend reheating in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the glaze. You can also reheat in the microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals to prevent the chicken from drying out. Add a teaspoon of water before microwaving to maintain moisture.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Try slicing leftover chicken over Mediterranean Chicken Gyros, tucking it into wraps with fresh greens, or serving it cold for meal prep lunches. The flavors actually develop even more after a day in the fridge, making it perfect for Chicken Caesar Sandwich variations.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay even more tender. Adjust cooking time to 6-8 minutes per side and ensure they reach 165°F internal temperature.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs work perfectly fine in this recipe. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh, so 1 teaspoon dried thyme and 1 teaspoon dried rosemary.
How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
Keep the heat at medium-low when making the glaze and stir constantly. If it starts to caramelize too quickly, remove the pan from heat briefly and add a splash of water.
Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side without moving them, until they develop a golden crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, and lemon zest to the same skillet. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture bubbles gently and coats the back of a spoon.
- Stir in the fresh thyme and rosemary, then add the butter. Continue stirring until the butter melts completely and creates a smooth, glossy glaze. If your glaze seems too thin, simmer for another 30 seconds.
- Return the rested chicken to the skillet and turn each piece to coat thoroughly with the glaze. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chicken.
- Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
