Gordon Ramsay Sticky Lemon Chicken
This sticky lemon chicken recipe inspired by Gordon Ramsay delivers bold, citrusy flavor with minimal fuss. Juicy chicken thighs are pan-seared and coated in a sweet and tangy glaze made from fresh lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It’s a fast, satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients
- 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional)
- Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add garlic and ginger to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
Pour in lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Stir well and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
For a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until glossy.
Step 3: Glaze and Finish
Return the chicken to the pan and coat thoroughly in the sauce.
Let simmer for 2–3 more minutes, spooning sauce over the chicken as it thickens.
Garnish with parsley or coriander and serve with lemon slices.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken—work in batches if needed.
- Fresh lemon juice is key; bottled won’t deliver the same bright flavor.
- For meal prep, store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Great served with jasmine rice, stir-fried veggies, or soba noodles.