How to Make Honey Lemon Chicken in the Microwave

Craving a delicious and quick dinner option? Honey Lemon Chicken made in the microwave is a fantastic choice that combines the sweetness of honey with the tang of fresh lemon. This dish is perfect for those busy nights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making Honey-Lemon Chicken right in your microwave.

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
2 tablespoons honey
Juice of 1 lemon
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon olive oil
Fresh parsley or coriander for garnish (optional)
Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Equipment:

Microwave-safe dish
Cling film or a microwave-safe cover
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons

Instructions:

Preparation:
- Start by cleaning your chicken breasts and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better and ensures even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.
Season the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, place them in the microwave-safe dish.
- Pour the honey-lemon mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated on all sides. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes at room temperature to enhance the flavors.
Cooking:
- Cover the dish with cling film or a microwave-safe cover. Make sure to pierce a few holes in the cling film if using, to allow steam to escape.
- Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high for about 5-7 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and your microwave’s power.
Check the Doneness:
- Carefully remove the dish from the microwave (it will be hot!) and check if the chicken is thoroughly cooked. The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C). If it’s not ready, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes and check again.
Serving:
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking, which helps in retaining the juices. Slice or serve the breasts whole, garnished with fresh parsley or coriander and lemon slices for an extra zest.

Tips for Perfect Microwave Cooking:

Even Thickness: Flatten the chicken breasts slightly to ensure they cook evenly.
Marinating: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for longer, even up to an hour in the refrigerator if you have time.
Sauce: To thicken the cooking juices into a sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the juices, then microwave for another 30 seconds.

This Honey-Lemon Chicken recipe not only saves time but is a delightful way to enjoy a meal that tastes like it took much longer to prepare. Enjoy this zesty and sweet chicken dish that is sure to be a hit!