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 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh lavender sprigs (for garnish, optional)

Highlighted under: Global Treats

I love turning simple chicken thighs into a delightful dish that stands out in flavor and presentation. This Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs recipe is my go-to for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of fragrant lavender and sweet honey creates a delicious glaze, ensuring the chicken stays juicy while adding a unique taste. I've experimented with different herbs and spices, but there's something truly magical about this pairing that transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:58:07.368Z

When I first tasted honey lavender chicken at a local restaurant, I was captivated by how the floral notes mingled harmoniously with the rich chicken flavor. I decided to recreate it at home, and after a few tweaks, I nailed the perfect balance. The key is to let the chicken marinate for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

One tip I discovered is to carefully measure the lavender; too much can overpower the dish, while just the right amount enhances the aroma without being too fragrant. You'll absolutely love the end result!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of sweet and floral notes
Juicy chicken thighs that soak up a unique marinade
An easy yet elegant dish for any occasion

      

Marinade Magic

The marinade for Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs is where the dish really comes to life. The honey not only sweetens the chicken but also helps to caramelize the skin during baking, creating a bubbly, golden crust. When mixing the marinade, make sure to whisk it vigorously to fully incorporate the dried lavender, as it can clump together otherwise. A good way to check if it's mixed properly is to look for a consistent color and texture, without any distinct streaks of honey or oil.

Allowing the chicken thighs to marinate is crucial for flavor development. While 30 minutes is the minimum, extending the marinating time to a few hours or even overnight can elevate the dish dramatically. This longer marination period will ensure the chicken absorbs all the sweet and floral notes of the lavender and honey, resulting in a more nuanced flavor profile. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or use a well-sealed bag to prevent any cross-contamination in the fridge.

Perfect Baking Techniques

When it comes to baking the chicken, even cooking is essential to achieve that juicy texture. Ensure the chicken thighs are laid out in a single layer in the baking dish, which promotes even heat distribution. A glass or ceramic dish works well as it retains heat better than metal, contributing to a more consistent bake. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption, but I personally prefer to take mine out of the oven right at 160°F (71°C) to let the residual heat finish cooking the meat while resting.

After baking, letting the chicken rest is just as important as the cooking process. This resting period, about 5-10 minutes, allows the juices to redistribute throughout the thighs, ensuring you get that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth quality with every bite. If you slice into the chicken too soon, the juices will run out, leaving you with drier meat than intended. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs.

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh lavender sprigs (for garnish, optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start preparing this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together honey, dried lavender, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the chicken marinates.

Bake the Chicken

Transfer the marinated chicken thighs to a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh lavender sprigs if desired before serving.

Enjoy your Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, consider using local honey and ensure your lavender is culinary-grade for safety and taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing Honey Lavender Chicken Thighs with sides that complement its floral and sweet flavor can elevate your meal. Consider roasted vegetables like carrots or zucchini, drizzled in olive oil and lightly seasoned, which provide a great textural contrast. A simple side salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a lemon vinaigrette can also brighten the dish, balancing the sweetness of the chicken.

For an extra layer of flavor, serve the chicken over a bed of fragrant rice or quinoa. Cooking the grain in broth, perhaps infused with herbs, enhances the overall dish while soaking up any excess sauce from the chicken. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can also heighten the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time for a meal prep, consider marinating the chicken thighs a day in advance but bake them fresh on the day you intend to serve. This provides the best texture and flavor.

When reheating leftovers, do so gently to prevent the chicken from drying out. Use the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) and cover the chicken with foil to help retain moisture. Alternatively, using a microwave works if you place a damp paper towel over the chicken to create steam, which can help preserve its juiciness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, but use a smaller quantity, as fresh lavender is more potent.

→ What can I serve with honey lavender chicken?

Roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad pair beautifully!

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, just be mindful of the cooking time as breasts may cook faster.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended for optimal flavor, but longer is better if time allows.