Honey Lime Chicken

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Get ready to savor the delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors with this Honey Lime Chicken recipe. It's the perfect dish to brighten up any meal with its vibrant taste and simple preparation.

Ingredients for Honey Lime Chicken

The star of this dish is, of course, the chicken thighs. Their natural juiciness pairs perfectly with the marinade, ensuring tender and flavorful bites. The honey adds a sweet, sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the dish its signature tang, cutting through the richness of the chicken. Soy sauce provides a savory depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Don't skimp on the garlic, as its aromatic qualities enrich the marinade. The olive oil helps keep the chicken moist while adding a subtle richness. A dash of ground cumin introduces a warm, earthy note, while ground black pepper and salt bring balance to the dish. Finish with fresh lime slices and a sprinkle of cilantro for a garnish that not only looks appealing but also adds a fresh, herbal touch.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • If you don't have a grill, you can also bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best taste; bottled lime juice just doesn't compare.

Serving Suggestions

This Honey Lime Chicken pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing salad or some grilled vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out more easily, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Honey Lime Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, let's get that marinade going. Grab a medium-sized bowl and whisk together the honey, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, cumin, black pepper, and salt. You want everything well combined, so take your time whisking until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture.

Next, place your chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is nicely coated. If you're using a bag, seal it up tight, and if it's a bowl, cover it well. Pop it in the fridge and let those flavors meld for at least 2 hours—overnight if you can manage.

When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While that's heating up, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the marinade—it did its job!

Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You're looking for a nice golden color and for the juices to run clear. If you have a meat thermometer, you're aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh lime slices and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to really elevate the dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Uses common pantry ingredients you probably already have.
  • Delivers a refreshing burst of flavor with every bite.
  • Marinade does all the heavy lifting, making it a breeze.

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken thighs
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 lime, sliced for garnish
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, cumin, pepper, and salt.
2. Place chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear.
5. Garnish with lime slices and cilantro before serving.

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