Description
This classic stovetop honey lime chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavors in just 25 minutes. The perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy lime creates an irresistible glaze that coats tender, juicy chicken breasts. This foolproof recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor every time.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/3 cup honey (preferably raw or local)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2–3 limes)
- 2 tablespoons lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Prepare the chicken: Pound chicken breasts to even thickness (about 3/4 inch) using a meat mallet for uniform cooking.
- Marinate: Place chicken in a dish and pour 2/3 of the honey lime marinade over it. Reserve remaining marinade for finishing. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and chicken is golden brown.
- Create the glaze: Pour reserved marinade into the same pan and cook 2-3 minutes until thickened and bubbly, stirring frequently.
- Rest and serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices. Slice and drizzle with the pan glaze. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Pro Tips:
• Let chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking for maximum tenderness
• Don’t skip the marinating time – even 15 minutes makes a difference
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature
• If glaze becomes too thick, add 1 tablespoon of chicken broth
Storage: Leftovers keep 3-4 days refrigerated. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to prevent drying.
Variations: Add 1-2 tablespoons sriracha for heat, or substitute maple syrup for honey for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: honey lime chicken, easy chicken recipe, stovetop chicken, quick dinner, Asian-inspired chicken, weeknight meals, gluten-free chicken, healthy chicken recipe