Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors? Look no further than this mouthwatering Honey Lemon Baked Chicken! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a succulent meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also impressively delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to discover the secret to juicy, flavorful chicken that’s baked to perfection—your dinner table is about to become the highlight of the evening!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a ceramic baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin and better seasoning absorption. This helps remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure even coverage for balanced flavor.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic until well combined. The mixture should create a smooth, golden glaze.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish, skin-side up, arranging them without overcrowding to allow even cooking.
- Pour the honey-lemon mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each thigh is well coated. Use a brush to spread the glaze if needed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
- Every 15 minutes, baste the chicken with the pan juices to keep it moist and enhance the caramelization of the honey glaze.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender meat.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. The herbs will add a fresh, bright note to the dish.
- Serve hot with your choice of side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
Tips
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Before seasoning, make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin and ensures that the seasoning adheres better.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! A generous seasoning will enhance the flavors of the chicken and complement the sweet honey and tart lemon beautifully.
- Mix the Glaze Well: When combining the honey, lemon juice, and garlic, whisk until the mixture is smooth. This ensures an even distribution of flavors across the chicken.
- Baste for Extra Flavor: For the best results, baste the chicken with the pan juices every 15 minutes. This not only keeps the chicken moist but also enhances the caramelization of the honey glaze.
- Let it Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for 5-7 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
- Pair Wisely: Serve your Honey Lemon Baked Chicken with sides that complement its flavors, such as roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 140mg
