Elevate Your Table with Lemon Chicken with Thyme and Honey.
Immerse yourself in the refined flavors of Poulet au Citron, au Miel et au Thym, a French-inspired dish that masterfully combines the tangy zest of lemons, the earthy aroma of fresh thyme, and the delicate sweetness of acacia honey.
Roasted to golden perfection, this tender and aromatic chicken is a versatile centerpiece, equally suited for casual weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.
Serve it with fragrant basmati rice, oven-roasted vegetables, or warm, crusty bread to create a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
The interplay of citrus, herbs, and honey offers a sophisticated yet approachable flavor profile that will impress your guests and delight your family.
Bring the elegance of French cuisine to your table with this simple yet exquisite recipe, perfect for elevating any occasion.
Main Ingredients:
⦁ 1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs), dressed
⦁ 3 lemons
⦁ 6 sprigs thyme
⦁ 2 garlic cloves, peeled and halved
⦁ 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
⦁ ¼ cup acacia honey
Seasoning:
⦁ Fleur de Sel de Guérande
⦁ Freshly ground black pepper
1. Prepare the Chicken: Juice one lemon and rub the chicken inside and out with the juice. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with thyme sprigs and garlic.
2. Roast the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F. Brush the chicken with olive oil and honey. Place in a roasting pan and drizzle with the lemon juice. Roast for 1 hour, basting frequently with pan juices.
3. Add Lemons: Peel the remaining lemons, slice them thinly, and add to the roasting pan 15 minutes before the chicken is done.
4. Serve: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Sprinkle with Fleur de Sel, garnish with lemon slices and thyme, and serve with your choice of side dishes.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients:
✔ Best Chicken – Use free-range chicken thighs or a whole chicken for juicier results.
✔ Lemon Choice – Meyer lemons give a sweeter, less acidic flavor, but regular lemons work too.
✔ Best Honey – Use lavender or wildflower honey for a delicate floral touch.
✔ Fresh Thyme – Fresh thyme enhances the dish—dried works, but use less.
✔ Olive Oil & Butter – A mix of both adds richness and depth.
👩🍳 Preparation:
✔ Marinate for Flavor – Let chicken sit in lemon, honey, thyme, and garlic for at least 1 hour (overnight is best).
✔ Sear for a Golden Crust – Brown the chicken in butter & olive oil before roasting.
✔ Deglaze for Depth – Use white wine or chicken broth to lift the caramelized bits.
🍳 Balancing Flavors:
✔ Sweet & Savory Balance – If too sweet, add a splash of white wine vinegar or extra lemon juice.
✔ Crispy Skin Tip – Roast uncovered at 200°C (400°F) for the last 10 minutes.
✔ Baste for Juiciness – Spoon pan juices over the chicken while roasting for extra flavor.
📦 Storage:
✔ Even Better Next Day! – Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheat Gently – Warm in the oven at 160°C (320°F) to keep it moist.
🍽 Serving:
✔ Classic Pairings – Serve with roasted potatoes, couscous, or crusty bread.
✔ Garnish It! – Top with extra thyme, lemon zest, and a drizzle of honey before serving.