Looking for a delicious and easy chicken recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than these Honey Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs! Packed with flavor and simple to make, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The combination of sweet honey, zesty lemon, and savory garlic creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing.
- With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredient Notes:
- Skinless boneless chicken thighs: These are used for their juicy and tender texture, but you can also use chicken breasts if preferred.
- Olive oil: Provides a rich and savory base for the marinade.
- Honey: Adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the chicken.
- Minced garlic: Adds a bold and aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Lemon juice: Provides a bright and tangy element.
- Cracked black pepper: Adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor.
- Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Minced parsley: Optional for garnish and added freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, cracked black pepper, and kosher salt.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Garnish with minced parsley before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- To make this dish spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- For a smokier flavor, cook the chicken thighs on a charcoal grill.
- Squeeze extra lemon juice over the chicken before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal safety and juiciness.
Serving Suggestions:
These Honey Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs pair perfectly with a side of fluffy rice, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, place the chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave until heated through, being careful not to overcook and dry out the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs in this recipe.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add extra cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes to increase the heat.
- Can I grill these chicken thighs instead of cooking them on the stovetop? Absolutely, grilling will add a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.
Conclusion:
Try out these Honey Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs for a flavorful and easy meal that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy the delicious flavors of this dish!
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Honey Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25-30 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Honey Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a delicious honey garlic lemon pepper sauce, then baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cracked black pepper
- 2 ¼ tsp kosher salt, or to taste
- Minced parsley to serve, optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Bake: Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve: Sprinkle with minced parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
- You can grill the chicken thighs instead of baking them for a smoky flavor.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg