Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs

Name: Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I am thrilled to share my Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs recipe! This dish combines the sweetness of honey with the floral notes of lavender, making it a unique and delightful meal. I love how the marinade infuses the chicken with flavor, creating juicy, tender thighs that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something different, this recipe will impress your guests and make them ask for seconds. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on this culinary adventure!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:37:13.257Z

When I first experimented with lavender in savory dishes, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it paired with chicken. I've come to realize that lavender not only adds an aromatic element but also balances the richness of the meat beautifully. Each time I make this dish, I find that the honey-lavender marinade creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes perfectly during cooking.

One of my favorite tips is to let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight if possible. This deepens the flavor and keeps the chicken tender. I often serve this dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and it always remains a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and aromatic combination of honey and lavender
Juicy chicken thighs that stay tender and flavorful
Versatile dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

To truly elevate your Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs, selecting high-quality ingredients is key. Look for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they retain moisture better than boneless cuts, resulting in juicy meat after baking. When selecting lavender, ensure it's labeled as culinary-grade to avoid any additives. Freshly squeezed lemon juice plays a crucial role in balancing the sweetness of the honey, so I always recommend squeezing it yourself for the best flavor.

The honey you choose can also impact the final dish. Opt for a light, floral honey like clover or orange blossom, particularly if you want to enhance the lavender notes. While it may be tempting to use a thicker, stronger honey, the subtlety of flavor is critical in this dish. If you're looking for a sugar substitute, consider agave syrup, but be cautious as it may alter the texture slightly.

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken is essential for not just flavor, but also for tenderness. Aim for at least one hour in the refrigerator, but let it sit overnight if time allows. The longer marination time allows the honey and lavender to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic chicken. To ensure an even coat, occasionally turn the bag or stir the chicken in the dish to redistribute the marinade.

It's also important to note that not all marinades are created equal. If you find your marinade too thick, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency, making it easier for the chicken to absorb the flavors. Avoid acid-heavy ingredients like vinegar which can break down the chicken too much and result in a mushy texture.

Baking and Serving Suggestions

Baking at 400°F (200°C) is crucial for achieving crispy skin on the chicken. This temperature helps render the fat beneath the skin while cooking the meat through without drying it out. If your chicken isn't browning as expected after 15-20 minutes, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes—just watch it closely to prevent burning. As an alternative to baking, consider grilling the chicken for a smoky flavor that complements the honey-lavender profile.

When it comes to serving, garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or thyme to add a pop of color and additional flavor balance. Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a refreshing contrast. You could also serve alongside couscous or quinoa, which would soak up any leftover juices beautifully for an enhanced dining experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare the Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs:

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs:

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, lavender, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Bake the Chicken

Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in the dish, skin side up, and pour any remaining marinade over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.

Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Now, enjoy your delicious Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs!

Pro Tips

When using lavender, ensure it's specifically labeled as culinary lavender to avoid any unpleasant flavors from non-edible varieties. Adjust the amount of honey to suit your taste, and consider pairing this dish with a refreshing side salad for a balanced meal.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture. For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken rubbery.

If you wish to freeze the marinated chicken before cooking, do so in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with the baking instructions.

Variations and Pairings

This recipe is versatile; consider adding different herbs or spices to customize flavors. For instance, rosemary or thyme can pair well with the honey and lavender if you want a more herbal twist. For heat, experiment with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce in your marinade to give it a spicy kick.

For a special occasion, serve the chicken alongside a glass of white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir. The wine's acidity will complement the dish's sweetness and enhance the overall dining experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice the chicken skin isn’t crisping as expected, check your oven rack placement. Make sure it’s in the center of the oven to ensure even heat distribution. Using parchment paper can help, but consider roasting directly on the baking sheet for better crisping as it allows the fat to render more effectively.

Another common issue is over-marinating, which can lead to overly soft meat. Stick to the recommended marination time unless you’re using a less acidic marinade. I recommend keeping an eye on time, especially with delicate cuts like thighs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require less cooking time to prevent dryness.

→ Where can I find culinary lavender?

Culinary lavender is available at specialty grocery stores, health food stores, or online.

→ Is there a substitute for honey?

Maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative to honey, but it will slightly change the flavor.

→ How can I ensure the chicken skin is crispy?

Make sure the chicken is dry before marinating, and bake it at the right temperature to achieve crispiness.