Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe

A sweet and savory glaze locks in moisture for a perfectly tender dinner every time.

By Medha deb
Created on

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: A Simple yet Flavorful Recipe

This recipe is a great introduction to the dark side of chicken—using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to achieve a richer, more flavorful dish. While boneless, skinless chicken can be used, you’ll find that bone-in, skin-on chicken retains moisture and offers a more satisfying texture. The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and other ingredients creates a sweet and savory sauce that elevates this dish to a new level.

Why Choose Chicken Thighs?

Chicken thighs are a staple for many home cooks due to their affordability and versatility. They are perfect for weeknight meals, as they’re quick to cook and packed with flavor. The bone-in, skin-on variety adds a crispy texture to the dish, which pairs well with the smooth, sweet sauce.

If you’re looking for a tried-and-true recipe that will impress your family and friends, look no further than our Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe: Juicy Skillet Dinner. This dish combines the perfect balance of flavors, ensuring each bite is a satisfying blend of sweetness and umami that keeps everyone coming back for more. Discover how easy it is to create this culinary masterpiece that’s both comforting and gourmet.

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 2 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 1/2 pounds)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 Tbsp olive oil
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • Cilantro, for serving
  • Steamed white rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes, if using. Set aside.
  3. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Place the flour in a shallow dish and dredge both sides of the thighs in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  4. Sear the Chicken: Heat the oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and cook until golden, about 4 to 6 minutes. Flip, then add the garlic to the pan around the chicken. Let it cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  5. Bake in the Oven: Pour the honey mixture over the top and around the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a thigh, about 15 minutes.
  6. Reduce the Sauce: Transfer the chicken to a platter to rest. Bring the sauce in the skillet to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced and thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  7. Serve: Spoon the reduced sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with cilantro. Serve with rice.
For those evenings when you're short on time but still want a delicious meal, check out our Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs: The Ultimate Effortless Weeknight Dinner. This recipe offers a simple way to savor tender, flavorful thighs without the fuss of constant monitoring. You can set it and forget it while the flavors meld and develop throughout the day, so you come home to a delightful aroma and a meal that’s ready to serve.
If you want a rich, comforting dish with minimal effort, don’t miss our Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs: Ultimate Comfort Food Made Easy. This recipe marries the sweet, sticky goodness of honey garlic with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy families. You’ll love the way these thighs come out—tender, juicy, and infused with flavor that only a slow cooker can deliver.

Can You Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They cook faster, so reduce the searing time to 3 to 4 minutes and check the internal temperature after 10 minutes of roasting in the oven.

What Kind of Skillet Do You Need?

An oven-proof skillet is essential for this recipe. Both stainless steel and cast-iron skillets work well. If you don’t have an oven-proof skillet, you can transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best way to store leftover honey garlic chicken thighs?

A: Store leftover chicken thighs in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

A: Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli to the skillet with the garlic. They will cook alongside the chicken and absorb some of the flavorful sauce.

Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?

A: You can increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or experimenting with different types of hot sauce in the sauce mixture.

Conclusion

This honey garlic chicken thighs recipe is a versatile and delicious option for any meal. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re using bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless chicken thighs, the result will be a mouthwateringly good dish that’s sure to please.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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