This super-easy grilled Honey Lime Chicken is sweet, tangy, and crisp on the outside. With only six ingredients, it’s an ideal recipe for summer grilling and weeknight dinners alike.
Kelley’s Tips
Tips Before You Get Started
- Don’t skip the marinating time. Marinate at least 30 minutes; 2–4 hours gives better flavor. Avoid marinating more than 24 hours, as the lime’s acidity can begin to break down the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.
- Add zest for extra lime flavor. Stir a bit of lime zest into the marinade or sprinkle it over the finished chicken for a brighter finish.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: Boneless or bone-in work, but boneless thighs cook quickly and stay juicy.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives a bright tang and helps tenderize the meat. Lemon can substitute if needed.
- Honey: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized glaze on the grill.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor; pre-minced is fine for convenience.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Balances sweetness and acidity. Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Cilantro: Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish and added freshness.
How to Make Grilled Honey Lime Chicken
- Marinate the chicken: Combine chicken, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes up to 4 hours.
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high.
- Grill the chicken: Place chicken on the grill and cook about 10 minutes total, flipping once halfway through. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking time can vary with thickness and whether pieces are bone-in.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the grill and serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Serving Suggestions
-
Broccoli Bacon Salad -
Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges
-
Panzanella Salad
-
Cucumber Avocado Salad
-
Easy Fruit Salad
-
Green Rice (Arroz Verde)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does lime do to chicken?
Lime juice helps tenderize the meat and adds bright acidity that balances the sweet honey. Lemon works just as well.
How long can you marinate chicken in lime juice?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes; up to 4 hours is ideal for flavor without compromising texture. Avoid marinating more than 24 hours.
How do you make lime glaze for chicken?
Mix equal parts lime juice and honey with a little garlic and soy sauce. Use some of the mixture to marinate, and brush reserved glaze onto the chicken while grilling to caramelize the surface.
More Chicken Recipes to Try
- The Best Grilled Chicken
- Grilled Chicken Caprese
- Korean Grilled Chicken
- Grilled Asian Chicken
- Thai Chicken
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Grilled Honey Lime Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- fresh cilantro for serving
Instructions
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Add the chicken, lime juice, honey, garlic, and soy sauce to a large zip-top bag or bowl. Marinade for 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
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When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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Grill the chicken about 10 minutes total, flipping halfway through, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Serve immediately with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Nutrition Information
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Protein: 19 g
Fat: 19 g
Sugar: 18 g
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