Are you ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds? This Honey Lime Glazed Chicken is not just a recipe – it's a culinary adventure that combines the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in one incredibly easy dish. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend kitchen warrior, this Mexican-inspired recipe promises to elevate your meal game with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even seasoning and better browning.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, and olive oil until well combined to create the glaze.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat, adding a small amount of additional olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, cooking for 6-7 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Flip the chicken breasts and pour half of the honey-lime glaze over the chicken, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
- Cook for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, drizzle the remaining glaze over the chicken to create a rich, sticky coating.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh lime zest or chopped cilantro if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry: This is the secret to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust that locks in all the delicious flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Don't rush the caramelization: Allow the glaze to slowly caramelize, creating those irresistible sticky and slightly crispy edges.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is incredibly moist and flavorful.
- Fresh is best: Use freshly squeezed lime juice and consider adding some lime zest for an extra burst of citrusy brightness.
- Customize your garnish: While optional, fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of lime zest can add a beautiful finishing touch to the dish.Pro tip: This recipe is incredibly versatile – try it with chicken thighs or even as a glaze for grilled fish for a delightful variation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 232kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 73mg
