Description
Juicy honey lime chicken thighs with a perfect balance of sweet honey, zesty lime, and savory spices. This easy recipe creates a beautiful caramelized glaze that locks in moisture while developing complex flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes with multiple cooking methods including oven, grill, air fryer, and stovetop options.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (6–8 pieces)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- For the Honey Lime Marinade:
- 1/3 cup fresh lime juice (about 3–4 limes)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- Create the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, and chopped cilantro. Whisk vigorously until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place seasoned chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, reserving liquid for basting. Choose your preferred cooking method:
Oven Method: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes.
Grill Method: Grill over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side.
Air Fryer Method: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Stovetop Method: Sear in a hot skillet for 4-5 minutes per side, then simmer with marinade for 3-4 minutes. - Finish and Serve: Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Marinating Tips: For best flavor, marinate 2-4 hours. Don’t exceed 24 hours as the acid can make the meat mushy.
Safety Note: Always boil reserved marinade for 3-4 minutes before using as basting sauce.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Substitutions: Maple syrup can replace honey, lemon juice can substitute lime juice, and tamari works for gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: honey lime chicken thighs, chicken thighs recipe, honey lime chicken, easy chicken dinner, marinated chicken thighs, glazed chicken, sweet and tangy chicken, weeknight dinner, family meal