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Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Juicy and Flavorful Dish

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- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on - 1/2 cup honey - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium) To make honey garlic chicken thighs, you need simple yet impactful ingredients. The chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. Bone-in and skin-on thighs give you the best taste. Honey adds sweetness, while garlic brings depth. Using low sodium soy sauce helps balance the flavors without making it too salty. - Green onions - Sesame seeds Garnishes add a nice touch. Chopped green onions give a fresh crunch. Sesame seeds add a bit of nuttiness. Both make the dish look great, too! - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Adding flavor enhancers can take this dish to the next level. Apple cider vinegar brightens the sauce. Sesame oil gives it a warm, nutty taste. Fresh ginger adds a zing, while black pepper offers a subtle kick. If you like spice, crushed red pepper flakes work well. They’re optional but fun! Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish special. With these basics, you can create a meal that is both delicious and satisfying. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly. - In a medium bowl, mix ½ cup honey, 4 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk well until everything blends nicely. - Place 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs skin-side up in a large oven-safe skillet. This helps get that crispy skin. - Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken. Make sure each piece gets well coated. This sauce is the star of the dish! - Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) inside to ensure it’s safe to eat. - For a nice caramelization, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning. The chicken should have a beautiful glaze. - Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy. - Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This adds color and crunch to your dish. To ensure your chicken is done just right, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) inside. This guarantees safety and juiciness. Letting the chicken rest for five minutes helps keep it moist. For the best flavor balance, let the honey garlic sauce sit for a few minutes before using it. This allows the flavors to mix well. When broiling, watch closely to avoid burning. The high heat can turn your dish from perfect to charred in seconds. If your sauce is too thick, it may burn easily. Move it off the heat if it starts bubbling too much. Also, don’t over-mix the sauce. This can make it lose some of its fresh taste. A gentle mix is all you need. For even cooking, use a heavy oven-safe skillet. Cast iron or stainless steel works great. These materials help distribute heat evenly. You will also need a whisk for mixing the sauce. A meat thermometer is key for checking doneness. Lastly, use a spatula to flip the chicken if needed. Pro Tips Marinate for More Flavor: For an even richer taste, marinate the chicken thighs in the honey garlic mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will provide the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic or powdered ginger for this recipe. Check the Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Serve with Sides: Pair the honey garlic chicken thighs with steamed rice or a fresh salad to balance the sweetness and create a complete meal. {{image_2}} You can swap honey for other sweeteners. Maple syrup or agave nectar works well. Brown sugar also adds a nice taste. If you want a different protein, use chicken breast or even tofu. Both options will soak up the honey garlic sauce. Get creative with spices. Try adding paprika for warmth or cumin for earthiness. You could also sprinkle in some thyme or rosemary for a fresh taste. For a zesty kick, add lemon or lime juice. The citrus will brighten the dish. You can grill these chicken thighs for a smoky flavor. Just marinate them first and cook on medium heat. Baking is easy and keeps the chicken juicy. If you prefer slow cooking, set your slow cooker to low for 6 hours. This method makes the chicken super tender. To keep your honey garlic chicken thighs fresh, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This helps avoid any bad smells or flavors. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for about three to four days. Always let the chicken cool before sealing it. When it’s time to eat your leftovers, you want them juicy and warm. The best way is to reheat in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the chicken moist. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out. If you want to save the chicken for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each thigh in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out all the air. This helps keep the chicken fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, move the chicken to the fridge to thaw overnight. This method helps keep the best texture. You can serve honey garlic chicken thighs with rice, noodles, or a salad. These sides balance the sweet and savory flavors. Rice absorbs the sauce well, adding to each bite. Noodles provide a nice texture contrast. A fresh salad adds crunch and brightness. Leftovers last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. Reheat thoroughly to ensure safety. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They will cook faster, so check for doneness at about 25 to 30 minutes. Boneless thighs still absorb the honey garlic sauce well, making them tasty. Great side dishes include steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a grain salad. Steamed veggies add color and nutrients. Mashed potatoes provide creaminess, while a grain salad offers a hearty texture. Choose sides based on your taste. To spice up the recipe, add more crushed red pepper flakes. You can also include sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the heat level to your preference. Enjoy the extra kick with the sweet honey garlic sauce! This blog post provided a simple way to make delicious honey garlic chicken thighs. We covered key ingredients, preparation steps, cooking tips, and storage guidelines. You learned ways to add flavor and even variations to try. Remember to avoid common mistakes, like burning during broiling. With these tips, you can create a tasty meal that everyone will enjoy. Now, go ahead and make this dish your own! Enjoy the cooking experience and the yummy results!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to make a meal that bursts with flavor? Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are not only juicy but also super easy to prepare! With just a few simple ingredients like chicken thighs, honey, and garlic, you can whip up a dish that will impress anyone. Follow me as I take you through each step to create this delightful recipe that brings sweetness and savor to your dinner table. Let’s dive in!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavor Explosion: This dish combines the sweetness of honey with the savory depth of garlic and soy sauce, creating a flavor profile that’s irresistible.
  2. Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
  3. Perfectly Juicy: Baking the chicken thighs ensures they stay juicy and tender, while the skin crisps up beautifully for added texture.
  4. Versatile Dish: This recipe can easily be adapted with different spices or sides, making it a great option for any occasion.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

– 1/2 cup honey

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)

To make honey garlic chicken thighs, you need simple yet impactful ingredients. The chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. Bone-in and skin-on thighs give you the best taste. Honey adds sweetness, while garlic brings depth. Using low sodium soy sauce helps balance the flavors without making it too salty.

Optional Garnishes

– Green onions

– Sesame seeds

Garnishes add a nice touch. Chopped green onions give a fresh crunch. Sesame seeds add a bit of nuttiness. Both make the dish look great, too!

Additional Flavor Enhancers

– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

– 1 teaspoon sesame oil

– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Adding flavor enhancers can take this dish to the next level. Apple cider vinegar brightens the sauce. Sesame oil gives it a warm, nutty taste. Fresh ginger adds a zing, while black pepper offers a subtle kick. If you like spice, crushed red pepper flakes work well. They’re optional but fun!

Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish special. With these basics, you can create a meal that is both delicious and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly.

– In a medium bowl, mix ½ cup honey, 4 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk well until everything blends nicely.

Cooking Instructions

– Place 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs skin-side up in a large oven-safe skillet. This helps get that crispy skin.

– Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken. Make sure each piece gets well coated. This sauce is the star of the dish!

– Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) inside to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Final Touches

– For a nice caramelization, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning. The chicken should have a beautiful glaze.

– Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy.

– Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This adds color and crunch to your dish.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Recipe

To ensure your chicken is done just right, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) inside. This guarantees safety and juiciness. Letting the chicken rest for five minutes helps keep it moist. For the best flavor balance, let the honey garlic sauce sit for a few minutes before using it. This allows the flavors to mix well.

Common Mistakes

When broiling, watch closely to avoid burning. The high heat can turn your dish from perfect to charred in seconds. If your sauce is too thick, it may burn easily. Move it off the heat if it starts bubbling too much. Also, don’t over-mix the sauce. This can make it lose some of its fresh taste. A gentle mix is all you need.

Equipment Recommendations

For even cooking, use a heavy oven-safe skillet. Cast iron or stainless steel works great. These materials help distribute heat evenly. You will also need a whisk for mixing the sauce. A meat thermometer is key for checking doneness. Lastly, use a spatula to flip the chicken if needed.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for More Flavor: For an even richer taste, marinate the chicken thighs in the honey garlic mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will provide the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic or powdered ginger for this recipe.
  3. Check the Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  4. Serve with Sides: Pair the honey garlic chicken thighs with steamed rice or a fresh salad to balance the sweetness and create a complete meal.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap honey for other sweeteners. Maple syrup or agave nectar works well. Brown sugar also adds a nice taste. If you want a different protein, use chicken breast or even tofu. Both options will soak up the honey garlic sauce.

Flavor Variations

Get creative with spices. Try adding paprika for warmth or cumin for earthiness. You could also sprinkle in some thyme or rosemary for a fresh taste. For a zesty kick, add lemon or lime juice. The citrus will brighten the dish.

Cooking Methods

You can grill these chicken thighs for a smoky flavor. Just marinate them first and cook on medium heat. Baking is easy and keeps the chicken juicy. If you prefer slow cooking, set your slow cooker to low for 6 hours. This method makes the chicken super tender.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep your honey garlic chicken thighs fresh, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This helps avoid any bad smells or flavors. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for about three to four days. Always let the chicken cool before sealing it.

Reheating Tips

When it’s time to eat your leftovers, you want them juicy and warm. The best way is to reheat in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the chicken moist. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save the chicken for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each thigh in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out all the air. This helps keep the chicken fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, move the chicken to the fridge to thaw overnight. This method helps keep the best texture.

FAQs

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken thighs?

You can serve honey garlic chicken thighs with rice, noodles, or a salad. These sides balance the sweet and savory flavors. Rice absorbs the sauce well, adding to each bite. Noodles provide a nice texture contrast. A fresh salad adds crunch and brightness.

How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. Reheat thoroughly to ensure safety.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They will cook faster, so check for doneness at about 25 to 30 minutes. Boneless thighs still absorb the honey garlic sauce well, making them tasty.

What are some side dish recommendations?

Great side dishes include steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a grain salad. Steamed veggies add color and nutrients. Mashed potatoes provide creaminess, while a grain salad offers a hearty texture. Choose sides based on your taste.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To spice up the recipe, add more crushed red pepper flakes. You can also include sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the heat level to your preference. Enjoy the extra kick with the sweet honey garlic sauce!

This blog post provided a simple way to make delicious honey garlic chicken thighs. We covered key ingredients, preparation steps, cooking tips, and storage guidelines. You learned ways to add flavor and even variations to try. Remember to avoid common mistakes, like burning during broiling. With these tips, you can create a tasty meal that everyone will enjoy. Now, go ahead and make this dish your own! Enjoy the cooking experience and the yummy result

- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on - 1/2 cup honey - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium) To make honey garlic chicken thighs, you need simple yet impactful ingredients. The chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. Bone-in and skin-on thighs give you the best taste. Honey adds sweetness, while garlic brings depth. Using low sodium soy sauce helps balance the flavors without making it too salty. - Green onions - Sesame seeds Garnishes add a nice touch. Chopped green onions give a fresh crunch. Sesame seeds add a bit of nuttiness. Both make the dish look great, too! - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Adding flavor enhancers can take this dish to the next level. Apple cider vinegar brightens the sauce. Sesame oil gives it a warm, nutty taste. Fresh ginger adds a zing, while black pepper offers a subtle kick. If you like spice, crushed red pepper flakes work well. They’re optional but fun! Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish special. With these basics, you can create a meal that is both delicious and satisfying. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly. - In a medium bowl, mix ½ cup honey, 4 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk well until everything blends nicely. - Place 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs skin-side up in a large oven-safe skillet. This helps get that crispy skin. - Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken. Make sure each piece gets well coated. This sauce is the star of the dish! - Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) inside to ensure it’s safe to eat. - For a nice caramelization, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning. The chicken should have a beautiful glaze. - Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy. - Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This adds color and crunch to your dish. To ensure your chicken is done just right, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) inside. This guarantees safety and juiciness. Letting the chicken rest for five minutes helps keep it moist. For the best flavor balance, let the honey garlic sauce sit for a few minutes before using it. This allows the flavors to mix well. When broiling, watch closely to avoid burning. The high heat can turn your dish from perfect to charred in seconds. If your sauce is too thick, it may burn easily. Move it off the heat if it starts bubbling too much. Also, don’t over-mix the sauce. This can make it lose some of its fresh taste. A gentle mix is all you need. For even cooking, use a heavy oven-safe skillet. Cast iron or stainless steel works great. These materials help distribute heat evenly. You will also need a whisk for mixing the sauce. A meat thermometer is key for checking doneness. Lastly, use a spatula to flip the chicken if needed. Pro Tips Marinate for More Flavor: For an even richer taste, marinate the chicken thighs in the honey garlic mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will provide the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic or powdered ginger for this recipe. Check the Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Serve with Sides: Pair the honey garlic chicken thighs with steamed rice or a fresh salad to balance the sweetness and create a complete meal. {{image_2}} You can swap honey for other sweeteners. Maple syrup or agave nectar works well. Brown sugar also adds a nice taste. If you want a different protein, use chicken breast or even tofu. Both options will soak up the honey garlic sauce. Get creative with spices. Try adding paprika for warmth or cumin for earthiness. You could also sprinkle in some thyme or rosemary for a fresh taste. For a zesty kick, add lemon or lime juice. The citrus will brighten the dish. You can grill these chicken thighs for a smoky flavor. Just marinate them first and cook on medium heat. Baking is easy and keeps the chicken juicy. If you prefer slow cooking, set your slow cooker to low for 6 hours. This method makes the chicken super tender. To keep your honey garlic chicken thighs fresh, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This helps avoid any bad smells or flavors. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for about three to four days. Always let the chicken cool before sealing it. When it’s time to eat your leftovers, you want them juicy and warm. The best way is to reheat in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the chicken moist. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out. If you want to save the chicken for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each thigh in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out all the air. This helps keep the chicken fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, move the chicken to the fridge to thaw overnight. This method helps keep the best texture. You can serve honey garlic chicken thighs with rice, noodles, or a salad. These sides balance the sweet and savory flavors. Rice absorbs the sauce well, adding to each bite. Noodles provide a nice texture contrast. A fresh salad adds crunch and brightness. Leftovers last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. Reheat thoroughly to ensure safety. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They will cook faster, so check for doneness at about 25 to 30 minutes. Boneless thighs still absorb the honey garlic sauce well, making them tasty. Great side dishes include steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a grain salad. Steamed veggies add color and nutrients. Mashed potatoes provide creaminess, while a grain salad offers a hearty texture. Choose sides based on your taste. To spice up the recipe, add more crushed red pepper flakes. You can also include sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the heat level to your preference. Enjoy the extra kick with the sweet honey garlic sauce! This blog post provided a simple way to make delicious honey garlic chicken thighs. We covered key ingredients, preparation steps, cooking tips, and storage guidelines. You learned ways to add flavor and even variations to try. Remember to avoid common mistakes, like burning during broiling. With these tips, you can create a tasty meal that everyone will enjoy. Now, go ahead and make this dish your own! Enjoy the cooking experience and the yummy results!

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A delicious and easy recipe for chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 0.5 cup honey
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
  • Place chicken thighs skin-side up in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish.
  • Pour the honey garlic mixture over the chicken, ensuring to coat each thigh well.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • For extra caramelization, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  • Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For extra caramelization, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end.
Keyword chicken, easy recipe, garlic, honey

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