Baked Honey Lime Chicken Thighs are a fresh and flavorful way to elevate your weeknight meals. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a vibrant blend of honey, lime juice, and garlic, then baked to golden perfection. The combination of sweet honey and tangy lime infuses the chicken with bold flavor. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of richness and brightness. This dish is simple yet impressive, requiring minimal prep. The marinade acts as both a tenderizer and a flavor booster. It’s a go-to for family dinners, meal prep, or when entertaining guests. The natural sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with the zing of fresh lime. It’s great on its own or served over rice, couscous, or a bed of leafy greens. If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy, vibrant, and satisfying, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

This dish is a game-changer for busy nights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort. It uses everyday pantry ingredients to create something that tastes gourmet. The marinade does all the hard work, infusing the chicken with deep flavor while keeping it incredibly moist. Baking ensures even cooking and a hands-off process. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this is a recipe worth keeping in rotation.

Cooking Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating time)
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating)
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
Juice and zest of 2 limes
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice and zest, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, and chili flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, coating well. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

3. Bake the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin side up. Spoon extra marinade over the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden brown.

4. Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, if desired.

Variations:

Grilled Version: Grill the marinated chicken over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side.
Boneless Option: Use boneless thighs or chicken breasts, reducing the cook time by 5–10 minutes.
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or more chili flakes to the marinade.
Citrus Twist: Replace one lime with an orange for a sweeter, citrus-forward flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need:

Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Whisk
Zip-top bag or marinating container
Oven

Nutritional Information:

Calories: ~310 per serving
Protein: 27g
Carbs: 12g
Fat: 18g

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts.
Meal Prep: Store individual portions with rice or vegetables for ready-to-go lunches.

My Cooking Experience:

The first time I made Baked Honey Lime Chicken Thighs, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so complex. The citrus and honey work magic on the chicken, and the oven does all the heavy lifting. I now make this recipe regularly for both quick weeknight meals and casual dinner parties. It’s always a hit and never fails to impress.

Conclusion:

Baked Honey Lime Chicken Thighs offer the perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory. With just a few pantry staples and fresh lime, you can transform ordinary chicken into something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is easy, flavorful, and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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