Imagine a meal that combines the tangy brightness of lemon, the sweet richness of honey, and perfectly cooked chicken with crisp asparagus - all ready in just 30 minutes! This Honey Lemon Chicken and Asparagus recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving a delicious and nutritious meal, this recipe will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to create the marinade. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining olive oil.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the asparagus by trimming the woody ends and cutting into 2-inch pieces.
- During the last 3-4 minutes of chicken cooking, add the asparagus to the same skillet, allowing it to cook and become tender-crisp.
- Pour the honey-lemon marinade over the chicken and asparagus, letting it simmer and create a light glaze for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing.
- Plate the chicken and asparagus, drizzling any remaining pan sauce over the top for extra flavor.
- Garnish with fresh lemon zest or chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Prep Work Matters: Pat your chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear.
- Marinade Magic: Whisk your honey-lemon sauce thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Asparagus Timing: Add asparagus towards the end of cooking to maintain its crisp-tender texture and vibrant green color.
- Rest Your Meat: Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to help retain its juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: Consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to your marinade for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 105mg
