Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This Honey Lime Chicken recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and cooks up in under 30 minutes. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this vibrant and satisfying dish perfect for the whole family. This recipe offers a fantastic blend of sweet and tangy, making it a delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)
Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. This step is key for a truly delicious result – the longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be!
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Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the chicken in batches for even cooking.
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Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, bring the remaining marinade to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately over cooked rice or quinoa. This honey lime chicken is equally delicious served with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it a versatile and healthy meal option.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of sesame oil to the marinade.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with steamed broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes, or a side salad for a balanced and nutritious dinner. Consider adding some chopped bell peppers or onions to the skillet while cooking the chicken for extra vegetables.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook it when you're ready to eat!
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This honey lime chicken recipe is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that doesn’t compromise on taste or health. It’s a delicious dish that’s perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, making it a valuable addition to your collection of best recipes and homemade cooking endeavors. Enjoy!