Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken is a deliciously tangy and slightly sweet dish that blends the zesty brightness of lemon, the warmth of cracked black pepper, and the rich depth of honey. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, making it an ideal option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The juicy, golden-brown chicken is coated in a flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully when cooked, leaving you with a mouthwatering main course that pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a meal that’s bursting with bold flavor and restaurant-quality taste.
Ingredients
– 500 grams of chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt to taste
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
– Fresh parsley or spring onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cleaning the chicken pieces thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel. If using chicken breasts, you may slice them into halves horizontally for even cooking. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the seasoning. - Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the juice of one lemon, lemon zest, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and paprika. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully blended. This tangy-sweet marinade will give the chicken its signature flavor. - Marinate the Chicken
Pour the marinade over the seasoned chicken in a shallow bowl or a ziplock bag. Make sure the chicken is fully coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For deeper flavor, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours. - Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken pieces into the pan. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary. - Cook Through and Glaze
After searing, reduce the heat to medium. Pour the remaining marinade into the pan and let it simmer with the chicken. As it cooks, the sauce will begin to thicken and form a glaze. Baste the chicken with the sauce occasionally. Cook for another 6-8 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). - Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked and coated in a sticky glaze, transfer it to a serving plate. Spoon any remaining sauce from the pan over the top for extra flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or spring onions for a burst of freshness. - Pairing Suggestions
Serve the Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken with steamed jasmine rice, mashed potatoes, or grilled vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with a citrusy quinoa salad or buttered noodles.
This Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe is the kind of dish that tastes like it took hours to make, but is actually simple and quick. Its vibrant, layered flavor profile makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting dinner for guests, this dish is sure to impress every time.