Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken has become a favorite for those who crave a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish combines tender chicken with a delicious blend of spices and a hint of sweetness that keeps us coming back for more. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.
We love how this recipe captures the essence of Bonefish Grill’s signature style, bringing restaurant-quality flavors right to our dining table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, Lily’s Chicken is easy to prepare and always delivers a mouthwatering experience. Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in our recipe collection.
Ingredients
To recreate the authentic Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken at home, we rely on fresh, quality ingredients that bring out the dish’s signature flavors. Below are the essential components divided for clarity and ease.
Chicken Ingredients
We start with tender chicken breasts that provide the perfect base for Lily’s Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
Marinade Ingredients
Our marinade enhances the chicken’s flavor with a delicate balance of zest and warmth:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup | Adds umami |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons | Delivers a subtle sweetness |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Provides bright acidity |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves | Infuses aromatic depth |
| Ground ginger | 1 teaspoon | Adds warming spice |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon | Brings a gentle heat |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | For mild spice balance |
Sauce Ingredients
The sauce ties the dish together with its rich and tangy profile:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (to thicken)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (to finish with gloss and richness)
Garnish Ingredients
For the final touch, our Lily’s Chicken benefits from vibrant garnishes that brighten each bite:
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons)
- Thin lemon slices or wedges (for serving)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional, 1 teaspoon)
We carefully combine these ingredients to deliver the unmistakable taste of Bonefish Grill’s Lily’s Chicken, ensuring every element contributes to its memorable flavor and presentation.
Equipment Needed
To successfully prepare Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken, having the right equipment streamlines the process and ensures perfect results every time. Here’s what we need to gather before starting:
- Large skillet or frying pan
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution to cook the chicken breasts to juicy, tender perfection.
- Mixing bowls
At least two: one for the marinade and another for combining the sauce ingredients.
- Measuring spoons and cups
Precision is key for balancing the blend of spices, sauces, and liquids.
- Whisk
Essential for thoroughly mixing the marinade and sauce to create smooth consistency.
- Tongs or spatula
For flipping chicken safely without shredding the tender meat.
- Knife and cutting board
To prep garlic, ginger, and lemon slices cleanly and efficiently.
- Small saucepan
To simmer and reduce the rich sauce until it reaches the perfect thickness.
- Serving platter or plates
To plate the finished dish attractively with garnishes.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet | Cook chicken evenly |
| Mixing bowls | Prepare marinade and sauce |
| Measuring spoons/cups | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Whisk | Mix marinade and sauce |
| Tongs or spatula | Handle chicken while cooking |
| Knife and cutting board | Prep fresh ingredients |
| Small saucepan | Reduce sauce |
| Serving platter | Present finished dish |
Having these tools ready helps us replicate the authentic flavors and signature style of Lily’s Chicken just like at Bonefish Grill. Next, we move onto the preparation and marinating steps using these carefully selected pieces of equipment.
Preparation
To create an authentic Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken, precise preparation is essential. Let’s carefully prepare the chicken, marinade, and sauce to capture the dish’s signature bold flavors and tender texture.
Preparing the Chicken
We begin by prepping the backbone of our dish—the chicken breasts. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best tenderness and quick cooking.
- Trim any excess fat or silver skin from 4 chicken breasts.
- Pound each breast to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This ensures uniform cooking and helps the chicken absorb the marinade evenly.
- Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, promoting better searing in the skillet.
Tip: Even thickness helps the chicken cook to a juicy finish without drying out.
Making the Marinade
The marinade infuses our chicken with the distinctive sweet-savory balance that Lily’s Chicken is known for.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup | Low sodium preferred |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | Adds natural sweetness |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tbsp | For bright acidity |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves | Enhances aroma and depth |
| Fresh ginger minced | 1 tbsp | Adds warm spice note |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ tsp | Provides subtle heat |
Steps:
- In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Whisk briskly until the honey dissolves completely and the mixture is smooth.
- Place the prepared chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring all pieces are coated thoroughly.
- Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours. This timeframe maximizes flavor without compromising the chicken’s texture.
Quote: “Marinating the chicken is key to tender, flavorful results—don’t skip or rush this step.”
Preparing the Sauce
Our sauce mirrors the marinade notes but with richer, buttery depth that crowns the finished dish.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation Details |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken broth | ½ cup | Preferably low sodium |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Same as marinade, low sodium |
| Honey | 1 tbsp | Adds subtle sweetness |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp | For silky, rich texture |
Steps:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey.
- Bring to a gentle simmer stirring constantly.
- Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the butter one tablespoon at a time until fully melted and emulsified.
- Continue simmering until the sauce slightly thickens and develops a glossy finish, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Keep warm until serving.
Note: This sauce will coat the chicken with a luscious, savory glaze that enhances every bite with authentic Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken that bursts with bold flavors and tender texture. Let’s get started with marinating, cooking, sauce making, and final assembly.
Marinating the Chicken
- Trim and prepare each chicken breast by removing excess fat and pounding to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch for uniform cooking.
- Pat the chicken dry using a paper towel to ensure a perfect sear.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the marinade ingredients:
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Fresh lemon juice
- Minced garlic
- Grated ginger
- Red pepper flakes
- Place the chicken breasts in the marinade. Ensure each piece is fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
“Marinating lets the chicken absorb the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes essential to Lily’s Chicken.”
Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the pan to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off but do not wipe clean.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Use tongs to flip carefully, avoiding piercing the meat to keep it juicy.
- Once cooked, transfer chicken to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil to rest.
| Step | Details | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat skillet | Medium-high heat, lightly oiled | 2-3 minutes | — |
| Sear chicken | Each side, no piercing | 4-5 minutes | 165°F (74°C) |
| Rest chicken | Tent with foil | 5 minutes | — |
Making the Sauce
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the sauce ingredients:
- Chicken broth
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Unsalted butter
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts and the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
- Remove from heat once the sauce coats the back of a spoon smoothly.
Pro Tip: For extra richness and silky texture, add butter last and whisk vigorously.
Final Assembly
- Place the rested chicken breasts onto a serving platter.
- Spoon the warm, rich sauce generously over the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon slices, and optional toasted sesame seeds for authentic presentation and added flavor.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides for a complete Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken experience.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken experience, pairing it with the right sides and garnishes is essential. Here are some thoughtfully curated serving suggestions that complement the dish’s bold and balanced flavors:
- Steamed or sautéed vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli add a fresh, vibrant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
- Garlic mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto soak up the luscious sauce perfectly, enhancing every bite with their rich texture.
- A light citrus salad with mixed greens, thinly sliced red onions, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing palate cleanser that balances the honey and soy glaze.
- For an added touch, serve with warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to help savor every drop of the buttery sauce.
To present the meal visually like Bonefish Grill, arrange the chicken breasts on a large serving platter, drizzle generously with sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley and thin lemon slices. The subtle sesame seed sprinkle adds an authentic restaurant finish.
| Suggested Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Asparagus | Fresh, lightly crunchy | Balances richness with crisp texture |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Creamy, savory | Absorbs the honey-soy glaze |
| Mixed Citrus Salad | Tangy, fresh | Refreshes and cleanses the palate |
| Crusty Bread | Buttery, crunchy | Perfect for dipping in sauce |
“Serving our Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken alongside these thoughtfully chosen accompaniments guarantees a meal that bursts with flavor and texture in every bite.”
We encourage experimenting with seasonal vegetables or your preferred starch to customize the plate while keeping the essence of the original dish intact. Each element should highlight the sweet, tangy, and savory harmony that defines Lily’s Chicken.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken with maximum flavor and minimal day-of effort, we recommend the following Make-Ahead Tips:
Marinate the Chicken in Advance
Marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight unlocks the full depth of the marinade’s savory, sweet, and tangy profile.
- Use an airtight container or resealable bag
- Refrigerate while marinating
- Bring chicken to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even searing
Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time
The rich sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance:
- Whisk and simmer the sauce as per the recipe
- Allow it to cool completely
- Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator
- Reheat gently on low heat before serving to maintain its glossy texture
Assemble Garnishes Early
- Chop fresh parsley and slice lemons the day before
- Store parsley in a damp paper towel inside an airtight container to retain freshness
- Keep lemon slices in an airtight container to prevent drying out
Tips to Store and Reheat Lily’s Chicken
| Step | Instruction | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | Store in airtight container in fridge | Up to 3 days |
| Reheating | Warm gently in skillet over medium-low heat, adding sauce last | Avoid overheating to keep tender texture |
“Marinating the chicken overnight is the secret to mimicking the exact bold flavors of Bonefish Grill’s Lily’s Chicken at home.”
Following these Make-Ahead Tips lets us savor this signature dish with ease, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests with minimal last-minute prep.
Conclusion
Bringing Bonefish Grill’s Lily’s Chicken into our kitchens lets us enjoy a restaurant-quality meal anytime. Its balance of bold flavors and tender texture makes it a versatile dish that fits both casual dinners and special occasions. With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe empowers us to create a memorable dining experience without the hassle.
By mastering the marinade, sauce, and cooking techniques, we can confidently serve a dish that impresses every time. Whether paired with fresh vegetables or creamy sides, Lily’s Chicken adds a delicious touch to our meal rotation. Let’s keep this recipe handy for those moments when we want something both satisfying and impressive, all from the comfort of home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Bonefish Grill’s Lily’s Chicken so popular?
Lily’s Chicken is loved for its tender chicken, well-balanced blend of spices, and a hint of sweetness. Its flavorful profile makes it perfect for easy weeknight meals or impressing guests with minimal effort.
What are the key ingredients in Lily’s Chicken?
The main ingredients include chicken breasts, soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, and butter. Fresh parsley, lemon slices, and optional sesame seeds are used for garnish.
What kitchen tools do I need to make Lily’s Chicken?
You’ll need a large skillet, mixing bowls, measuring spoons and cups, a whisk, tongs or spatula, a knife and cutting board, a small saucepan, and a serving platter.
How do I prepare the chicken for the best results?
Trim and pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, then pat them dry. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes for at least 4 hours or overnight.
How is the signature sauce for Lily’s Chicken made?
The sauce is made by whisking together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and butter in a saucepan, then cooking it until thick and glossy for a rich, buttery glaze.
What’s the best way to cook Lily’s Chicken?
Sear the marinated chicken in a preheated skillet until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest before coating with the prepared sauce for maximum flavor and tenderness.
What side dishes pair well with Lily’s Chicken?
Steamed or sautéed asparagus or green beans, garlic mashed potatoes or creamy risotto, light citrus salads, and warm crusty or garlic breadsticks complement the dish well.
Can I prepare Lily’s Chicken in advance?
Yes. Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight. The sauce can be made up to 24 hours ahead and reheated gently. Garnishes can also be prepped early to save time.
How do I store and reheat leftover Lily’s Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain moisture and flavor without drying out the chicken.
Is Lily’s Chicken suitable for beginner cooks?
Absolutely. The recipe is straightforward with clear steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels looking to recreate restaurant-quality flavors at home.