Description
Easy Honey Lime Chicken is bursting with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors and ready in just 20 minutes! This one-skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Try it for dinner and enjoy bold taste with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3/4 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp chili powder
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
Zest and juice of 2 limes
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Drizzle 1 tbsp of olive oil over them and toss to coat evenly.
- In a large 12-inch stainless steel skillet, warm the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- When the oil begins to shimmer, arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the skillet.
- Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they’re golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Toss the minced garlic into the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—take care not to burn it.
- Add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon.
- Mix in the honey, soy sauce, lime zest and juice, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer gently over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the pan, turning to thoroughly coat it in the glossy glaze. Remove from heat.
- Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro and serve immediately with extra sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
Use a thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
Chicken breasts can be substituted but cook faster.
Adjust spice by reducing chili and red pepper flakes.
Store leftovers in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 412
- Sugar: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Protein: 34g