Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken Strips

There was a time in my early cooking days when “easy” and “flavorful” rarely went hand in hand. I either burned dinner or got stuck with something bland and uninspiring. That changed the day I discovered the magic of a lemon-honey glaze—zesty, sweet, and unbelievably simple to pull off. This lemon honey glazed chicken recipe is now a go-to in my kitchen, especially on hectic weeknights.

What makes it so special? It’s fast, it’s beginner-friendly, and it uses wholesome ingredients that deliver big on flavor without complicating your evening. Whether you’re cooking solo or feeding a family, this dish is a fantastic starting point if you’re new to the world of home-cooked meals. Plus, it’s perfect if you’re hunting for quick and healthy meals with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Why This Recipe is Special

At its heart, this easy sheet pan dinner delivers the perfect trio: sweet, savory, and tangy. The lemon-honey glaze adds depth without overwhelming, and the cornstarch-coated chicken crisps beautifully in the pan. It’s also incredibly versatile—pair it with rice, stir-fried veggies, or even noodles for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

What’s more, the ingredients are kitchen staples, and the method is practically foolproof. This dish offers a great confidence boost for new cooks because it teaches core techniques like pan-frying, building a glaze, and working with basic seasonings. Every beginner should have this one in their recipe rotation.

Ingredients and Preparation

Boneless Chicken Breasts
These are the star of the dish, providing lean protein and a mild flavor base that soaks up the glaze beautifully. You can swap them for boneless chicken thighs if you prefer a richer texture.

Cornstarch
Used instead of flour to coat the chicken, cornstarch creates that classic crispy exterior you love in restaurant-style chicken. It’s also gluten-free and excellent at holding onto the glaze.

Salt and Black Pepper
These foundational seasonings enhance the natural flavor of the chicken and balance the sweetness of the glaze.

Honey
Provides the sweet component of the glaze. Opt for raw or local honey for added health benefits and deeper flavor. Maple syrup works in a pinch, but you’ll lose a bit of that floral complexity.

Soy Sauce
Brings umami and saltiness to the glaze. If you’re watching sodium, low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos are great alternatives.

Rice Vinegar
Adds a touch of acidity and brightness. You could substitute with apple cider vinegar or even lemon juice if necessary.

Fresh Lemon Juice
The citrus kick here cuts through the sweetness, giving the glaze its signature zing. Use fresh-squeezed for the best results.

Garlic
Adds warmth and a savory base note. If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder works, though you’ll lose some of the depth.

Vegetable Oil
For pan-frying the chicken. You can also use canola or avocado oil.

Butter
Added for richness right before glazing. It helps emulsify the sauce and gives it a glossy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Start by cutting the chicken breasts into even-sized strips. Aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly.

Step 2 In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and cornstarch until fully coated. This layer will create a golden, crispy surface during cooking.

Step 3 In a small mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well and set aside. This will become your delicious lemon honey glaze.

Step 4 Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken strips, laying them out in a single layer. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan—work in batches if necessary.

Step 5 Once the chicken is browned, reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the pan. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 6 Pour the glaze mixture over the chicken and let it simmer. As the liquid begins to reduce and thicken, tilt the pan to spoon the glaze over the chicken repeatedly. This helps develop that beautiful, sticky coating.

Step 7 Continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F) and the glaze has thickened into a shiny coating. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• If your glaze reduces too fast and starts burning, reduce the heat and add a splash of water or lemon juice to loosen it.
• Cornstarch clumping? Sift it before coating the chicken or shake the coated chicken in a zip-top bag for even distribution.
• No garlic press? Use the flat side of a knife to crush garlic before mincing—it’s faster and more effective.
• Don’t skip spooning the glaze over the chicken—it helps every piece get that glossy, flavorful finish.

Serving Suggestions

This lemon herb chicken recipe shines when served over steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the extra glaze. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or quinoa. A quick side of stir-fried green beans or roasted broccoli adds color, crunch, and nutrition.

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave in 30-second bursts to preserve the glaze’s texture.

Conclusion

If you’re just getting started in the kitchen, this lemon honey glazed chicken is a delicious way to build confidence. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll create something that looks fancy but feels simple—because it is. Let this be your introduction to the world of easy sheet pan dinners and quick and healthy meals.

Tried it? Let me know how it turned out! Drop your experience or tweak in the comments—I love hearing how your version came together.

FAQ About Lemon Honey Glazed Chicken Strips

More Relevant Recipes

• Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Maple Bacon Glazed Chicken Bites
• Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon

Print