Why Make This Recipe
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a must-try dish for anyone looking to enjoy a meal bursting with flavor. This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the savory taste of garlic and soy sauce, creating a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to serve at gatherings. Plus, the chicken thighs remain juicy and tender, making it a surefire hit for friends and family alike.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- ½ cup honey
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Making Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs is simpler than you might think. Just follow these easy steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ground ginger until well combined.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Sear Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip and Bake: Flip the chicken pieces over, and pour the remaining marinade into the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Cook Through: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Baste with Sauce: Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with the sauce to enhance flavor.
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for optimal tenderness.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a touch of flavor and presentation.
These steps will guide you through creating Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs that are bursting with flavor and sure to impress!
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Serve these delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The savory sauce pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh salad or mashed potatoes. Don’t forget to drizzle any leftover marinade on your sides for added taste!
How to Store Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the marinade in a saucepan until it reduces to your desired consistency before serving.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding spices like chili flakes for heat or using different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist. You can also substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but you may need to reduce the cooking time by a few minutes.
2. What is the best way to slice the chicken after cooking?
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy. Slice against the grain for a tender bite.
3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can place the marinated chicken in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It will still be delicious!
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ground ginger until well combined.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken pieces over, and pour the remaining marinade into the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with the sauce to enhance flavor.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optionally, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a touch of flavor and presentation.