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Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Savory and Simple Recipe

by on January 21, 2025

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Craving a cozy dinner that’s easy and tasty? Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are your answer! This dish combines the sweet taste of honey with savory garlic, making every bite irresistible. I’ll show you how to cook this dish step by step. Plus, I’ll share tips to ensure the skin is crispy and the flavors pop. Ready to impress your family or friends? Let’s get started on this simple and savory recipe!

- 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated - 2 teaspoons sesame oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish - Sesame seeds for garnish You can swap bone-in thighs for boneless ones if you prefer. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor. Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free option. If you lack fresh ginger, ground ginger works too. For garlic lovers, extra minced garlic is always a welcome addition. When measuring liquids like honey and soy sauce, ensure your measuring cup is level for accuracy. For solid items, like chicken thighs, use a kitchen scale if needed. Each thigh typically weighs about 6-8 ounces. The optional red pepper flakes add a slight kick, but adjust according to your taste. For the best results, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for crispy skin. 2. In a large bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like heat. Whisk until combined. 3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. For stronger flavor, refrigerate for up to 2 hours. 1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help with cleanup. 2. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin side up on the baking sheet. Reserve any leftover marinade for later. 3. Bake the chicken for 30 to 35 minutes. Halfway through, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade. This adds flavor and makes a sticky glaze. 4. Check that the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should look crispy and golden. 1. After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This keeps the juices inside, making it tender. 2. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. This adds crunch and freshness. 3. Serve the thighs on a platter with steamed rice or your favorite stir-fried veggies. Enjoy your tasty dish! Marinating chicken thighs makes them tasty and tender. Use a mix of honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Make sure to coat each piece well. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. For stronger flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This wait allows the flavors to soak into the meat. To get that crispy skin, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs skin side up on a lined baking sheet. The skin should face the heat. Basting with the marinade halfway through helps keep the skin moist while it cooks. This method gives you a gorgeous, golden crust. Want to kick it up a notch? Add red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also try using different types of honey, like wildflower or clover, for unique flavors. Finally, garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds adds a nice crunch and boosts the dish's look. Pro Tips Marinate Longer for More Flavor: For the best flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C). Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey and balance it out with a bit more soy sauce or vinegar for acidity. Save the Drippings: Don't discard the drippings left on the baking sheet after cooking. They can be used to make a delicious sauce by adding a bit of broth and reducing it on the stove. {{image_4}} To switch up the flavor, try different marinades. You can mix maple syrup with soy sauce for a sweet twist. Another option is using teriyaki sauce, which brings a richer taste. If you prefer a spicy kick, add sriracha or chili paste to the honey mix. You can also use citrus juices like orange or lemon for a fresh zing. You can cook honey garlic chicken thighs in many ways. Baking is simple and gives crispy skin. Grilling adds a nice char and smoky flavor. If you want a faster method, try pan-searing them on the stove. Just make sure to finish cooking in the oven for even heat. You can also use a slow cooker. It makes the chicken very tender and full of flavor. Pair honey garlic chicken thighs with sides that balance the sweet and savory notes. Steamed rice is a great choice to soak up the sauce. Stir-fried vegetables add color and crunch. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh salad. You can also add some roasted potatoes for a heartier meal. Don't forget to sprinkle extra green onions and sesame seeds on top for a beautiful finish. After cooking your honey garlic chicken thighs, it's best to store them in the fridge. Allow the chicken to cool down first. Place the chicken in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh and tasty. Properly stored, it lasts up to four days. If you want to keep the chicken longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Wrap each thigh tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. To reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until they reach 165°F (74°C). If you want crispy skin, remove the foil for the last few minutes. Enjoy your flavorful meal again! You should marinate chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes. For better flavor, refrigerate them for up to 2 hours. The longer you marinate, the more the chicken absorbs the sweet and savory honey garlic mix. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust cooking time to about 25 to 30 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. Serve honey garlic chicken thighs with steamed rice or stir-fried veggies. These sides soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. Add extra green onions and sesame seeds for a nice touch. This article covered all you need to know about preparing honey garlic chicken thighs. We explored the right ingredients, how to measure, and tasty substitutions. Step-by-step, I showed you how to prepare, cook, and serve this dish. Tips for the perfect crispy skin and flavor boosts were included, too. Don't forget about storage and reheating for later. With these details, you can create a delicious meal that impresses everyone. Enjoy cooking and sharing your tasty results!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavor Explosion: This dish combines the sweetness of honey with the savory depth of soy sauce and garlic, creating a delicious balance that delights the palate.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
  3. Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables, making it a great addition to any meal plan, adaptable to your taste preferences.
  4. Impressive Presentation: Garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it a showstopper on any dining table.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

– 2 teaspoons sesame oil

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish

– Sesame seeds for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap bone-in thighs for boneless ones if you prefer. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor. Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free option. If you lack fresh ginger, ground ginger works too. For garlic lovers, extra minced garlic is always a welcome addition.

Measurement Details

When measuring liquids like honey and soy sauce, ensure your measuring cup is level for accuracy. For solid items, like chicken thighs, use a kitchen scale if needed. Each thigh typically weighs about 6-8 ounces. The optional red pepper flakes add a slight kick, but adjust according to your taste. For the best results, use fresh ingredients whenever possible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for crispy skin.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like heat. Whisk until combined.

3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. For stronger flavor, refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

Cooking Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help with cleanup.

2. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin side up on the baking sheet. Reserve any leftover marinade for later.

3. Bake the chicken for 30 to 35 minutes. Halfway through, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade. This adds flavor and makes a sticky glaze.

4. Check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should look crispy and golden.

Resting and Serving Tips

1. After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This keeps the juices inside, making it tender.

2. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. This adds crunch and freshness.

3. Serve the thighs on a platter with steamed rice or your favorite stir-fried veggies. Enjoy your tasty dish!

Tips & Tricks

Marinating Techniques

Marinating chicken thighs makes them tasty and tender. Use a mix of honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Make sure to coat each piece well. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. For stronger flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This wait allows the flavors to soak into the meat.

Ensuring Crispy Skin

To get that crispy skin, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs skin side up on a lined baking sheet. The skin should face the heat. Basting with the marinade halfway through helps keep the skin moist while it cooks. This method gives you a gorgeous, golden crust.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to kick it up a notch? Add red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also try using different types of honey, like wildflower or clover, for unique flavors. Finally, garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds adds a nice crunch and boosts the dish’s look.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate Longer for More Flavor: For the best flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
  2. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C).
  3. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey and balance it out with a bit more soy sauce or vinegar for acidity.
  4. Save the Drippings: Don’t discard the drippings left on the baking sheet after cooking. They can be used to make a delicious sauce by adding a bit of broth and reducing it on the stove.

Variations

Alternative Marinades

To switch up the flavor, try different marinades. You can mix maple syrup with soy sauce for a sweet twist. Another option is using teriyaki sauce, which brings a richer taste. If you prefer a spicy kick, add sriracha or chili paste to the honey mix. You can also use citrus juices like orange or lemon for a fresh zing.

Different Cooking Methods

You can cook honey garlic chicken thighs in many ways. Baking is simple and gives crispy skin. Grilling adds a nice char and smoky flavor. If you want a faster method, try pan-searing them on the stove. Just make sure to finish cooking in the oven for even heat. You can also use a slow cooker. It makes the chicken very tender and full of flavor.

Serving Pairings

Pair honey garlic chicken thighs with sides that balance the sweet and savory notes. Steamed rice is a great choice to soak up the sauce. Stir-fried vegetables add color and crunch. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh salad. You can also add some roasted potatoes for a heartier meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra green onions and sesame seeds on top for a beautiful finish.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After cooking your honey garlic chicken thighs, it’s best to store them in the fridge. Allow the chicken to cool down first. Place the chicken in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh and tasty. Properly stored, it lasts up to four days.

Freezing Tips

If you want to keep the chicken longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Wrap each thigh tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until they reach 165°F (74°C). If you want crispy skin, remove the foil for the last few minutes. Enjoy your flavorful meal again!

FAQs

How long to marinate chicken thighs?

You should marinate chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes. For better flavor, refrigerate them for up to 2 hours. The longer you marinate, the more the chicken absorbs the sweet and savory honey garlic mix.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust cooking time to about 25 to 30 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

What to serve with honey garlic chicken thighs?

Serve honey garlic chicken thighs with steamed rice or stir-fried veggies. These sides soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. Add extra green onions and sesame seeds for a nice touch.

This article covered all you need to know about preparing honey garlic chicken thighs. We explored the right ingredients, how to measure, and tasty substitutions. Step-by-step, I showed you how to prepare, cook, and serve this dish. Tips for the perfect crispy skin and flavor boosts were included, too. Don’t forget about storage and reheating for later. With these details, you can create a delicious meal that impresses everyone. Enjoy cooking and sharing your tasty result

- 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated - 2 teaspoons sesame oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish - Sesame seeds for garnish You can swap bone-in thighs for boneless ones if you prefer. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor. Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free option. If you lack fresh ginger, ground ginger works too. For garlic lovers, extra minced garlic is always a welcome addition. When measuring liquids like honey and soy sauce, ensure your measuring cup is level for accuracy. For solid items, like chicken thighs, use a kitchen scale if needed. Each thigh typically weighs about 6-8 ounces. The optional red pepper flakes add a slight kick, but adjust according to your taste. For the best results, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for crispy skin. 2. In a large bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like heat. Whisk until combined. 3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. For stronger flavor, refrigerate for up to 2 hours. 1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help with cleanup. 2. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin side up on the baking sheet. Reserve any leftover marinade for later. 3. Bake the chicken for 30 to 35 minutes. Halfway through, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade. This adds flavor and makes a sticky glaze. 4. Check that the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should look crispy and golden. 1. After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This keeps the juices inside, making it tender. 2. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. This adds crunch and freshness. 3. Serve the thighs on a platter with steamed rice or your favorite stir-fried veggies. Enjoy your tasty dish! Marinating chicken thighs makes them tasty and tender. Use a mix of honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Make sure to coat each piece well. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. For stronger flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This wait allows the flavors to soak into the meat. To get that crispy skin, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs skin side up on a lined baking sheet. The skin should face the heat. Basting with the marinade halfway through helps keep the skin moist while it cooks. This method gives you a gorgeous, golden crust. Want to kick it up a notch? Add red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also try using different types of honey, like wildflower or clover, for unique flavors. Finally, garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds adds a nice crunch and boosts the dish's look. Pro Tips Marinate Longer for More Flavor: For the best flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C). Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey and balance it out with a bit more soy sauce or vinegar for acidity. Save the Drippings: Don't discard the drippings left on the baking sheet after cooking. They can be used to make a delicious sauce by adding a bit of broth and reducing it on the stove. {{image_4}} To switch up the flavor, try different marinades. You can mix maple syrup with soy sauce for a sweet twist. Another option is using teriyaki sauce, which brings a richer taste. If you prefer a spicy kick, add sriracha or chili paste to the honey mix. You can also use citrus juices like orange or lemon for a fresh zing. You can cook honey garlic chicken thighs in many ways. Baking is simple and gives crispy skin. Grilling adds a nice char and smoky flavor. If you want a faster method, try pan-searing them on the stove. Just make sure to finish cooking in the oven for even heat. You can also use a slow cooker. It makes the chicken very tender and full of flavor. Pair honey garlic chicken thighs with sides that balance the sweet and savory notes. Steamed rice is a great choice to soak up the sauce. Stir-fried vegetables add color and crunch. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh salad. You can also add some roasted potatoes for a heartier meal. Don't forget to sprinkle extra green onions and sesame seeds on top for a beautiful finish. After cooking your honey garlic chicken thighs, it's best to store them in the fridge. Allow the chicken to cool down first. Place the chicken in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh and tasty. Properly stored, it lasts up to four days. If you want to keep the chicken longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Wrap each thigh tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. To reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until they reach 165°F (74°C). If you want crispy skin, remove the foil for the last few minutes. Enjoy your flavorful meal again! You should marinate chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes. For better flavor, refrigerate them for up to 2 hours. The longer you marinate, the more the chicken absorbs the sweet and savory honey garlic mix. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust cooking time to about 25 to 30 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. Serve honey garlic chicken thighs with steamed rice or stir-fried veggies. These sides soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. Add extra green onions and sesame seeds for a nice touch. This article covered all you need to know about preparing honey garlic chicken thighs. We explored the right ingredients, how to measure, and tasty substitutions. Step-by-step, I showed you how to prepare, cook, and serve this dish. Tips for the perfect crispy skin and flavor boosts were included, too. Don't forget about storage and reheating for later. With these details, you can create a delicious meal that impresses everyone. Enjoy cooking and sharing your tasty results!

Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Deliciously marinated chicken thighs with a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish
  • to taste sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s fully heated before the chicken is placed inside.
  • In a sizable mixing bowl, take the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, along with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until they form a well-combined marinade.
  • Introduce the chicken thighs into the marinade, making sure to coat each piece generously so that every bite is full of flavor. Cover the bowl and let it marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or, for a more pronounced taste, refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin side up on the prepared baking sheet. Reserve any leftover marinade in a separate bowl for future basting.
  • Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, baste the chicken thighs with the reserved marinade to enhance their flavor and achieve a beautifully sticky glaze. Ensure the chicken cooks until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin turns crispy and gorgeous.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow the thighs to rest for 5 minutes. This will help retain the juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
  • Finally, just before serving, sprinkle the chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added crunch and freshness.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours.
Keyword baked chicken, chicken, honey garlic, thighs

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