Honey, Garlic and Lemon Glazed Chicken

Ingredients

• 6 chicken thighs (skin-on)
• 1.5 tbsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
• salt (to taste)
• black pepper (freshly ground, generous)
• lemon juice (a few drops for the marinade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for marinating and searing)
• 1 tbsp butter (for sautéing)
• 3 fresh garlic (finely minced)
• 4 tbsp honey (3 to 4 tablespoons)
• 1.5 lemon juice (juice of 1 1/2 lemons)
• 1 lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• 2 tbsp water (optional, to adjust texture)
• dried chili (optional (cayenne or chili flakes) for a spicy kick)

Steps

1. 1

   In a bowl, season the chicken thighs with salt, a generous amount of black pepper, 1 ½ tablespoons of paprika, a few drops of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil.

2. 2

   Massage the chicken well to ensure the seasoning is distributed evenly across all pieces.

3. 3

   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil. Place the chicken skin-side down.

4. 4

   Brown the chicken without moving it until the skin is very crispy, caramelized, and a deep golden color.

5. 5

   While the chicken is browning, finely mince the 3 cloves of garlic.

6. 6

   Remove excess fat from the skillet if necessary and add the tablespoon of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté briefly until the garlic is fragrant.

7. 7

   Prepare the glaze by mixing the honey, the juice of 1 ½ lemons, the lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and the dried chili or chili flakes if you want a spicy touch.

8. 8

   Pour the glaze mixture over the chicken in the skillet. If the sauce seems too thick, add 1 or 2 tablespoons of water to adjust the texture.

9. 9

   Optionally, add a few lemon slices to the skillet for garnish and extra aroma.

10. 10

    Cook over low heat, basting the chicken constantly with the sauce, until it reduces and thickens into a shiny glaze and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Notes

You can adjust the level of sweetness or acidity by varying the amount of honey and lemon. If you prefer a lighter sauce, add a bit more water at the end.

Nutrition per serving

• chicken
• glazed
• honey and lemon
• main course
• quick dinner
• caramelized