Syrian Chicken With Honey and Spices

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Discover the delightful flavors of Syrian cuisine with this easy-to-make chicken dish that combines the sweetness of honey with aromatic spices.

Noemi Turner

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:30:54.487Z

This Syrian Chicken dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a family favorite. The honey caramelizes beautifully during cooking, giving the chicken a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm spices.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
  • Aromatic spices that fill your kitchen with warmth
  • Easy to prepare for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to gatherings

The Essence of Syrian Flavors

Syrian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and fragrant spices. The combination of sweet and savory ingredients in dishes like this Syrian Chicken With Honey and Spices creates a unique culinary experience that transports you to the heart of the Middle East. The use of honey not only adds sweetness but also helps to caramelize the chicken, resulting in a crispy and flavorful skin that will delight your taste buds.

Aromatic spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and paprika play a crucial role in this dish, infusing the chicken with deep, warm flavors. These spices are staples in Syrian cooking, reflecting the country's diverse culinary heritage. The careful balance of these ingredients ensures that each bite is a delightful experience, making this recipe a must-try for anyone looking to explore new flavors.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this Syrian Chicken recipe is incredibly versatile. It's easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your guests and less time in the kitchen. The dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as fluffy couscous, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing salad, making it suitable for any occasion.

Additionally, the recipe can be scaled up or down depending on your needs. Preparing a larger batch is an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for both casual family meals and festive gatherings.

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best flavor and texture, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is essential. If you have more time, consider marinating it overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

When baking, keep an eye on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. If you want an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for a couple of minutes at the end of the baking time. Just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning. With these tips, your Syrian Chicken will turn out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother preparation.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for a delicious meal.

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine honey, olive oil, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your homemade Syrian Chicken with Honey and Spices!

Serving Suggestions

This Syrian Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a vibrant tabbouleh salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Alternatively, fluffy couscous or warm pita bread can soak up the tasty marinade, enhancing your meal experience.

For a complete feast, add some roasted vegetables, such as carrots and bell peppers, seasoned with olive oil and herbs. The sweetness of the roasted veggies complements the honey-glazed chicken beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal that your family and friends will love.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish can also be frozen for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap the chicken tightly to prevent freezer burn, and it can last for about three months in the freezer.

When reheating, it's best to do so gently to preserve the moisture. You can warm it in the oven at a low temperature or use a microwave, covering it to keep the chicken from drying out. Enjoying leftovers can be just as satisfying as the original meal!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and cook it when you're ready.

→ Is this dish spicy?

No, this dish is not spicy. The spices add warmth without heat.

Syrian Chicken With Honey and Spices

Discover the delightful flavors of Syrian cuisine with this easy-to-make chicken dish that combines the sweetness of honey with aromatic spices.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration40 minutes
Overall Time60 minutes

Created by: Noemi Turner

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
  2. 1/4 cup honey
  3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  4. 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  5. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  6. 1 teaspoon paprika
  7. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  8. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  9. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  10. Juice of 1 lemon
  11. Fresh parsley for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine honey, olive oil, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 02

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown.

Step 03

Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 30g