Imagine a dish that transports you to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast with every single bite - a recipe that effortlessly blends sweet, tangy, and savory flavors into one extraordinary meal. This Fresh Figs and Lemon Chicken isn't just another dinner recipe; it's a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary weeknight cooking into a gourmet experience. Prepare to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality dish that looks complex but is surprisingly simple to prepare!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup fresh figs, halved
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Halve the fresh figs and set them aside. Juice the lemon and measure out 2 tablespoons of honey. Make sure the chicken thighs are thawed if previously frozen.
- Season the boneless chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, covering it with foil to keep it warm.
- In the same skillet, add the halved figs, lemon juice, and honey. Stir gently to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the figs to soften and the flavors to meld. The honey will create a lovely glaze.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the figs. Spoon some of the fig and lemon mixture over the chicken. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the chicken thighs warm, topped with the fig and lemon mixture. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of rice or a fresh green salad.
- Enjoy your Fresh Figs and Lemon Chicken, savoring the combination of sweet figs, tangy lemon, and savory chicken!
Tips
- Choose ripe, fresh figs for the best flavor - they should be soft but not mushy, with a deep color and sweet aroma.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness and food safety.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary when cooking the figs.
- If fresh figs are out of season, you can substitute with dried figs that have been rehydrated in warm water.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to help retain its juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- For a complete Mediterranean-style meal, serve with couscous, quinoa, or a light Greek salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 140mg
