If you’re dreaming of a dish that screams cozy fall chicken meals with sweet, sticky, garlicky vibes—this Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe is your new obsession. It’s simple, soulful, and hits that perfect balance between savory and sweet. These saucy chicken thighs cook up in one pan, using just a handful of ingredients you probably already have. Whether you’re into Chicken Thigh Fillets Recipes or on the hunt for Few Ingredient Chicken Recipes, this one’s a total win.
Psst… if you love garlic-forward dishes, you’ll also swoon over our Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes—another easy dinner favorite!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sticky-sweet honey garlic recipes are always crowd-pleasers
- One-pan wonder = fewer dishes, faster dinner
- Big, bold garlic flavor in every saucy bite
- Perfect for meals with chicken thighs boneless or thigh fillet chicken recipe lovers
- Doubles as one of those simple dinner recipes chicken fans adore
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner |
| Cooking Method | Pan-seared + Simmered |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Ingredients
Ready to whip up one of the easiest meals to make with chicken thighs? Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) – Ideal for chicken thigh fillets recipes; juicy and rich with flavor
- Honey – The star of all honey garlic recipes, bringing natural sweetness
- Garlic (freshly minced) – Packs a punch and deepens the flavor
- Soy sauce – For that salty-savory depth
- Apple cider vinegar – Adds tang and balances the sweet
- Olive oil – Helps you get that perfect golden sear
- Cornstarch (optional) – For a thicker, glossy finish
- Salt & black pepper – Basic but essential
👩🍳 Check the recipe card below for exact amounts and step-by-step instructions.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
1. Sear the Chicken
Get that skillet nice and hot with a splash of oil. Season your chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear until golden-brown on both sides. You’re building flavor here, so don’t rush this part!
2. Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat a little and add your garlic—let it sizzle for a few seconds. Then pour in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Stir until it’s bubbly and smelling amazing.
3. Simmer the Chicken
Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, spoon the sauce over, and let them simmer gently until cooked through and tender. The sauce will thicken and cling to every piece.
4. Optional Thickening
Want that extra glossy sauce? Stir in a cornstarch slurry and let it bubble for a minute or two.
5. Serve It Up
Spoon it all over rice, noodles, or veggies—and don’t forget that extra drizzle of sauce. You’ve officially nailed one of the best meals with chicken thighs boneless.
Pro Tips for Success
- For extra tenderness, try marinating the chicken in the sauce ahead of time.
- A nonstick skillet works wonders for a no-stress sear.
- Letting the sauce reduce uncovered at the end intensifies the flavor.
Flavor Variations
- Add red pepper flakes or sriracha if you love heat.
- Sub soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free twist.
- This also works as one of those fun things to cook with chicken breast—just adjust the cook time!
Serving Suggestions
Round out your plate with:
- Steamed jasmine or brown rice
- Garlic noodles or lo mein
- Roasted squash or green beans—great for fall chicken meals
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make-ahead: Whisk up the sauce and store it in the fridge for 2–3 days.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Leftovers
These are even better the next day! Just reheat in the pan with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze it! Let the chicken cool, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Use a skillet for the best texture, or microwave in short bursts—don’t forget to stir!
FAQ
Can I use this recipe for chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! If you’re searching for things to cook with chicken breast, this sauce works beautifully. Just adjust cook time so they don’t dry out.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
No worries—white vinegar or rice vinegar works just fine.
Is this good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s one of the easiest simple dinner recipes chicken lovers can prep ahead for a tasty weeknight win.
Can I add veggies to the pan?
Totally! Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas would be delicious. It turns into one of those all-in-one meals to make with chicken thighs.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe has big flavor, minimal fuss, and all the comforting vibes of your favorite fall chicken meals. Whether you’re hunting for few ingredient chicken recipes or just need something new to add to your list of meals with chicken thighs boneless, this one’s a total keeper. Cozy up with a bowl, light a candle, and let that honey garlic aroma fill your kitchen.
You’ve earned this delicious moment.
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Reduce heat, add minced garlic, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C), about 10-15 minutes.
- For a thicker sauce, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) and let simmer until glossy.
- Serve over rice, noodles, or vegetables. Spoon sauce over top.