Honey Citrus Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Honey Citrus Chicken offers a delightful combination of sweet honey, zesty citrus peels, and warm spices, creating a flavorful and aromatic dish. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it pairs well with rice or vegetables for a satisfying meal with vibrant citrus notes.

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Ingredients

  • 1 chicken, cut up
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 2 teaspoons grated lime peel
  • 2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder

Instructions

  1. Place chicken skin side down in a pan.
  2. Mix honey, grated lime peel, grated lemon peel, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, grated ginger, and curry powder, then pour or brush over the chicken.
  3. Cut orange into pieces and tuck around the chicken.
  4. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes at 375°F.
  5. Turn the chicken and cook for another 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey citrus mixture for a few hours or overnight. If you don’t have fresh citrus peels, bottled zest can work in a pinch. Consider substituting the curry powder with a pinch of paprika for a different flavor profile. This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa, making it a great accompaniment to dishes like Nice Rice Casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Honey Citrus Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the dish's sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with rice, such as in Chicken-N-Stuffing, or fluffy couscous. For a complete meal, consider adding some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Honey Citrus Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Honey Citrus Chicken contains roughly 102 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

102 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3g 6% DV
Total Fat 1.5g 2% DV
Carbs 21.2g 8% DV
Fiber 4.9g 17% DV
Sugar 2g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 34.9mg 2% DV
Potassium 393.7mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4mcg
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Calcium 44.4mg 3% DV
Iron 5.5mg 30% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, though cooking time may need to be adjusted. Boneless chicken breasts will cook faster, so check for doneness around 20 minutes in the oven. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

What can I substitute for honey?

If you're looking for a substitute for honey, maple syrup is a great alternative that offers a different but pleasant sweetness. You can also use agave syrup or brown sugar mixed with a little water to replicate the consistency and sweetness of honey.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can enhance the flavor and add nutritional value. Simply place them in the pan around the chicken before baking, allowing them to roast and soak up the honey citrus glaze.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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