Description
This Stovetop Honey Lime Chicken recipe features juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a tangy mixture of honey, fresh lime juice, and savory spices, then cooked to perfection in a skillet. The quick marinade imparts a delicious balance of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors, while a final glaze made from the reserved marinade adds an extra burst of taste. Ideal for a flavorful weeknight dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with rice or vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional):
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure all pieces are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Heat the Skillet: Warm a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use, and place the breasts in the hot skillet. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Make the Glaze: After the chicken is cooked, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and let it simmer over medium heat for about 2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly into a glossy glaze.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes so it can absorb the flavorful juices.
- Serve: Place the chicken on plates, drizzle with the thickened glaze, and garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- You can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or your favorite vegetables to round out the meal.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
