A delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the savory goodness of chicken with the bright, citrusy flavors of lemon and the subtle sweetness of honey. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light and refreshing weekend meal. It’s gluten-free friendly and can be easily adapted to suit your dietary preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 Tbsp clarified butter, ghee, or coconut oil
- 6 garlic cloves, crushed
- ½ cup chicken bone broth
- 2 Tbsp raw honey
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tsp gluten-free flour or arrowroot powder
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Season & Sear
Dry the chicken thoroughly with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear and flavorful crust on the chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Melt ghee or coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear. Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Toss the crushed garlic into the skillet and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Deglaze & Thicken
Deglaze the pan by pouring in the chicken broth and scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. These browned bits, also known as fond, are packed with flavor. Stir in the honey, fresh lemon juice and zest, along with gluten-free flour or arrowroot powder. Whisk the mixture until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The sauce should be able to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return chicken to skillet. Spoon sauce over the chicken and simmer for 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld together. Take the pan off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped herbs and lemon slices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Flavorful: It’s packed with lean protein, bright citrus flavors, and natural sweetness from honey.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different herbs, spices, and vegetables.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Uses gluten-free flour or arrowroot powder for thickening the sauce.
- Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with brown rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious honey lemon sauce.
- Pair with a side of steamed vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or broccoli for a complete and balanced meal.
- Add a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the chicken.
Tips:
- Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant taste of fresh lemons.
- Chicken thighs or tofu work well as substitutes for chicken breasts, providing different textures and flavors.
- Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat and a spicy kick.
- Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, honey, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients used)
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 200-250mg per serving
Conclusion
Honey Lemon Chicken is a winner because it’s quick, delicious, and healthy. The combination of zesty lemon, sweet honey, and savory chicken creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.
- Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of gluten-free flour or arrowroot powder?
- Yes, you can use all-purpose flour. However, if you’re looking to keep the recipe gluten-free, stick with gluten-free flour or arrowroot powder.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months. Ensure the chicken is cooled down before storing it in an airtight container.
- How do I reheat the chicken?
- To reheat, warm the chicken with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
- Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
- Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the sauce can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Sauté the vegetables before adding the garlic and chicken broth.
