Description
This Honey Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs cooked in a flavorful blend of honey, garlic, lemon juice, and cracked black pepper. The dish is well-seasoned yet simple to prepare, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a tasty dinner that doesn’t require complicated ingredients or techniques. The garlic and lemon provide fresh and zesty notes while honey adds a natural sweetness balanced by the pepper’s savory spice.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
Marinade & Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cracked black pepper (about 40 cracks from pepper grinder)
- 2 ¼ tsp kosher salt, or to taste
Garnish
- Minced parsley, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve better flavor absorption and a good sear if cooking on stovetop.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, cracked black pepper, and kosher salt. Whisk together until the honey is fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator to enhance flavor penetration.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs along with the marinade. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it to achieve a nice sear, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
- Reduce the Sauce: As the chicken cooks, the marinade will thicken into a glossy glaze. Spoon the sauce over the chicken frequently for added flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with minced parsley if desired. Serve hot as a main dish with your favorite sides such as rice, vegetables, or salad.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken longer for even deeper flavor, up to 4 hours in the fridge.
- If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey to 2 tablespoons.
- Use fresh cracked black pepper for best flavor impact.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F to guarantee food safety.
- For a crispier texture, you can sear chicken thighs longer or finish under the broiler briefly.
Keywords: Honey Garlic Chicken, Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs, Easy Chicken Thigh Recipe, Quick Dinner, Skillet Chicken