Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken

Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken is one of those weeknight dinners I rely on when I want something bright and comforting but still easy enough to pull off without a fuss. The tangy citrus pairs perfectly with a silky honey glaze that clings to juicy chicken strips—each bite feels like sunshine on the table.

I made this on a chilly evening when we needed something cheerful at the table and it has turned into my go-to when I crave bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Cut into strips for quick and even cooking Choose fresh and plump pieces for extra juiciness
• Cornstarch: Helps create a light crispy coating Avoid old packages for the crispest result
• Garlic powder: Adds depth to the coating and enhances the sauce Opt for finely ground powder for best mixing
• Black pepper: Lends a warm kick to the chicken Use freshly ground if possible for maximum aroma
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness and a glossy glaze Use good-quality raw honey for richer flavor
• Soy sauce: Adds savory umami backbone to the glaze Select low-sodium for more control over seasoning
• Lemon juice: The zesty star Use fresh lemons for bright fresh flavor
• Rice vinegar: Balances the glaze with a gentle tartness Look for unseasoned rice vinegar for pure flavor
• Butter: Brings silkiness to the sauce and rounds out sharp flavors Opt for real butter not margarine for the best results
• Fresh garlic: Essential for a fragrant rich base Choose plump cloves and mince just before using
• Vegetable oil: High-heat oil that helps crisp the chicken sticks to the pan less Choose a neutral oil like canola or sunflower

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Cut the chicken breasts into strips that are about half an inch thick and two inches long This makes sure all the pieces cook evenly and soak up the flavor

Coat the Chicken:

In a medium bowl mix together the cornstarch garlic powder black pepper and a pinch of salt Toss the chicken strips in the mixture making sure each piece gets a thorough even coating

Brown the Chicken:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium high heat Lay the coated chicken strips into the skillet in a single layer Cook for about three to four minutes on one side until golden and crisp then flip and repeat on the other side Transfer to a plate if working in batches to prevent overcrowding

Mix the Glaze:

In a small bowl combine honey soy sauce lemon juice and rice vinegar Whisk together until completely smooth and set aside

Make the Garlic Butter Base:

Reduce the heat on the skillet to medium Add the butter and let it melt fully then stir in the minced garlic Cook for one minute until fragrant without letting the garlic brown

Glaze and Finish the Chicken:

Return all the browned chicken strips to the skillet Pour the glaze mixture evenly over the chicken Use a spoon to continuously baste the chicken as it cooks Simmer for five to seven minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy and the chicken is cooked through

Serve:

Spoon any extra glaze over the chicken when serving A bed of steamed rice is the perfect companion so the sauce gets soaked up

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The lemon juice is my favorite ingredient here Ż squeezing fresh lemon really makes this sauce pop My sister still talks about how good it smelled the first time she walked in the kitchen while it simmered

Storage tips

Leftover lemon honey glazed chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce Microwaving works too just cover to prevent drying out

Ingredient substitutions

Boneless chicken thighs can be used for extra juiciness or swap rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar in a pinch Agave syrup works if you are short on honey Tamari is a good gluten free soy sauce alternative

Serving suggestions

Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for classic comfort Try alongside sautéed greens or broccoli for balance Leftovers make delicious filling for wraps or salads the next day

Cultural context

This dish is a twist on the classic American Chinese takeout flavors balancing sweetness and tang like orange chicken or sesame chicken but with a lighter citrus focus Lemon honey glaze is a favorite for weeknight American home cooking merging familiar ingredients into a dish that tastes like both tradition and freshness

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Chicken breasts, cut into strips, are ideal as they stay tender and take on the glaze beautifully.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs can be used for a juicier, more flavorful result.

→ How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently, watching closely as the sauce thickens.

→ Is it necessary to coat the chicken in cornstarch?

Cornstarch creates a light crust that helps the glaze adhere, adding a pleasant texture.

→ What side dishes pair well with this chicken?

Steamed white or brown rice, quinoa, or a crisp green salad make excellent accompaniments.

→ Can the glaze be made ahead of time?

Yes, the glaze mixture can be prepped in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.