Go Back
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried) - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - Lemon slices (for garnish) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) To create my honey lemon chicken thighs, I focus on balance. The chicken thighs provide a rich flavor, while honey adds sweetness. Fresh lemon juice gives a bright, zesty punch. I always choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. This cut keeps the meat juicy during cooking. The skin crisps up nicely, adding texture. For the marinade, I mix honey and lemon juice in equal parts. This sweet and tangy blend creates a rich flavor. I also add olive oil for moisture and minced garlic for depth. Fresh rosemary brings an earthy note to the dish. Don't forget the salt and pepper. These enhance the overall taste. Lastly, I garnish my chicken with lemon slices and parsley. This makes the dish look fresh and inviting. You can find the full recipe for honey lemon chicken thighs in the recipe section. Start by whisking together the liquid ingredients in a medium bowl. Combine the honey, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil. Next, add minced garlic, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything blends well. This marinade brings great flavor to the chicken. Marinating time is crucial. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinate for up to 2 hours. This extra time lets the flavors soak into the meat. Always practice safe marination. Use a resealable bag or a dish to hold the chicken and marinade. Store it in the fridge to keep it fresh and safe to eat. Now, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even cooking. While the oven heats, take the marinated chicken thighs out of the fridge. Place them skin-side up in a baking dish. Make sure to reserve the marinade for later use. Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, brush the reserved marinade over the chicken. This adds even more flavor. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you like crispy skin, broiling is the way to go. After baking, turn on the broiler for an extra 2-3 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning. The chicken should get a nice golden color. These simple steps make your honey lemon chicken thighs tasty and appealing. For the full recipe, check out the section above. For the best taste, marinate your chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes. However, if you have time, try marinating for up to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to soak in well. The honey and lemon work together to tenderize the meat. The acid from the lemon breaks down the proteins, making them juicy and tasty. To keep your chicken juicy while cooking, don’t forget to reserve some marinade. Brush it on the chicken halfway through cooking. This adds a nice glaze and flavor boost. If you want extra crispiness, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end. Just watch it closely to avoid burning. Make your dish pop with garnishes. Fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley add color and freshness. Place lemon slices on top of the chicken or around the plate. This simple touch makes your meal look fancy and inviting. When serving, think about sides that complement the chicken. Rice, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad work great. They balance the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken. You can also serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. If you want more ideas, check the Full Recipe for fun side options. {{image_2}} You can swap chicken thighs for other cuts. Chicken breasts or drumsticks work well too. Both options will change the texture but keep the flavor. If you want to replace honey, consider maple syrup or agave nectar. These alternatives offer a similar sweetness. You can even use brown sugar mixed with a bit of water for a thicker glaze. To elevate your dish, try adding spices and herbs. A pinch of paprika can add warmth. Fresh thyme or oregano can also give a nice touch. For a twist, think about using different citrus fruits. Lime or orange juice makes a bright, fresh change. You can even blend citrus juices for a unique flavor. After cooking honey lemon chicken thighs, let them cool. Store leftovers in a shallow container. Make sure to cover it tightly. This keeps the chicken fresh in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to save it for longer, freeze the cooked chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat chicken thighs, use the oven or a skillet. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking dish and cover it with foil. This helps keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. If you use a skillet, add a splash of water. Cover it and heat on low. Both methods help keep the flavor and moisture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can dry out the chicken. For best results, always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating. What’s the best way to check for doneness? The best way to check for doneness is using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. Look for a temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink. Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They will cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust your cooking time to about 20-25 minutes. Check for the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety. How long can leftovers be stored? You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. They will last in the freezer for about three months. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Yes, you can use a slow cooker. Just place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method makes the chicken super tender. What sides pair well with honey lemon chicken? Great sides include steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh salad. These sides balance the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken. You could also serve it with mashed potatoes or quinoa for a hearty meal. Is honey suitable for grilling or roasting chicken? Yes, honey works well for grilling or roasting chicken. It adds a nice glaze and flavor. Just be careful, as honey can burn easily. Keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks. You may need to adjust cooking times to avoid burning the honey. This blog post outlined how to make honey lemon chicken thighs. We discussed the key ingredients, marinade preparation, and cooking techniques. Optional tips helped enhance flavor and presentation. You learned about variations and proper storage of leftovers. In summary, this dish is simple to prepare yet flavorful. Experiment with your ingredients for a unique twist. Enjoy delicious chicken at home with ease. Happy cooking!

Honey Lemon Chicken Thighs

Delight your taste buds with this Honey Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe that’s simple yet packed with flavor! In just 50 minutes, you can enjoy tender, juicy chicken coated in a tangy honey-lemon marinade. Perfect for dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Click to discover the full recipe and cooking tips that will make your meal a hit! Taste the magic of honey and lemon in every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Lemon slices (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

    Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

      Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

        Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them skin-side up in a baking dish. Reserve the marinade for later.

          Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, brush the reserved marinade over the chicken and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

            Optional: For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.

              Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

                Garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley to enhance the presentation.

                  Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 50 mins | Servings: 4