Honey lime chicken breasts

Honey lime chicken breasts feature a delightful mix of tangy lime and sweet honey with a touch of heat from chili peppers. This easy dish can be grilled or baked for a flavorful meal, ideal for any occasion.

17 Nov 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 120 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup lime juice
2 limes
1 tsp coriander leaves
2 red hot chili peppers
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp chili powder
8 chicken breasts

Honey lime chicken breasts are a delicious and zesty dish that's sure to become a favorite in your household. This recipe combines the tangy flavors of lime with the sweetness of honey, complemented by a hint of spiciness from red hot chili peppers. It's a perfect blend of flavors that's easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, honey lime chicken breasts are a fantastic choice.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, combine the lime juice, chopped coriander leaves, honey, salt, and chili powder.
- Finely chop the garlic cloves and red hot chili peppers, adding them to the mixture.
- Mix well to ensure all ingredients are well integrated.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a large resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for better flavor absorption.

3. Preheat Grill or Oven:
- If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat.
- For oven roasting, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

4. Cook the Chicken - Grilling Option:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off.
- Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

5. Cook the Chicken - Oven Option:
- Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

6. Serve:
- While the chicken is cooking, slice the two remaining limes into wedges or rounds for garnish.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with lime slices and additional coriander leaves if desired.

Honey lime chicken breasts offer a delightful mix of flavors that will leave your taste buds tingling. The tangy lime, spicy chili peppers, and sweet honey create a perfect harmony of tastes. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making it ideal for any occasion. Serve it with a side of rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the delicious blend of zesty and sweet flavors with every bite!

Honey lime chicken breasts FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

For optimal flavor absorption, marinate the chicken breasts for at least 1 hour. If time allows, marinating overnight is recommended for a deeper flavor.

What is the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken breasts?

The internal temperature of cooked chicken breasts should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safe to eat and fully cooked.

Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. However, the flavor may vary slightly, and you may need to adjust the amounts based on the sweetness level desired.

How can I store leftover honey lime chicken breasts?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, lasting up to 3 months.

What cooking method is better, grilling or baking?

Both methods yield delicious results; grilling provides a smoky flavor and grill marks, while baking is easier for cooking larger quantities and ensures even cooking. Choose based on your preference and available equipment.

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the lime juice, garlic, and honey mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.

- Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh lime juice and garlic cloves for the best taste. Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

- Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red hot chili peppers or remove the seeds. Conversely, if you like it spicier, you can add more chili peppers or even a dash of hot sauce.

- Cook evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are of similar thickness so they cook evenly. You can pound them to an even thickness if needed.

- Rest the chicken: After cooking, let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.

- Garnish for presentation: Garnish the finished dish with fresh coriander leaves and lime slices for a vibrant and appealing presentation.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 220kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 1.12g
Sugar 4.43g
Fat 4.31g

Honey lime chicken breasts