Are you ready to make a meal that will impress your family and friends? These Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with rich, savory flavors. Imagine crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs covered in a sticky, sweet, and garlicky glaze—sounds amazing, right? This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious, restaurant-quality dish at home. So, if you’re interested in stepping up your home-cooking game, let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4-6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3-4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the glaze)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will help cook the chicken thighs evenly, leaving the skin crispy and the inside juicy.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Season your chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural flavor of the chicken. Rub the seasoning into the skin for a better taste.
3. Sear the Chicken
Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs, skin side down, in the skillet and sear them until the skin is golden and crispy about 5-7 minutes. Flip the thighs and cook the other side for another 2 minutes.
4. Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
While the chicken is searing, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Stir well to mix the ingredients. This honey garlic glaze will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the chicken.
5. Add the Glaze
Once the chicken is seared, pour the honey garlic glaze over the chicken thighs in the skillet. Make sure the glaze coats the chicken evenly, allowing the flavor to seep into every bite.
6. Bake the Chicken
Transfer the skillet with the chicken to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
7. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you’d like a thicker glaze, remove the chicken thighs from the skillet once they are done cooking. Place the skillet back on the stove over medium heat, and stir in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes until it reaches the desired thickness, then pour it over the chicken.
8. Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is ready, garnish it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken:
- Crispy Skin: To ensure crispy chicken skin, don’t move the chicken while searing until it has a golden crust.
- Balance the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of honey or add more vinegar for tanginess.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
Conclusion:
These Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs are incredibly flavorful, combining the sweetness of honey with the boldness of garlic and soy sauce. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare!
FAQs:
1. Can I use chicken breasts in place of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts may need less baking time to avoid overcooking.
2. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Absolutely! You may need to reduce the baking time since boneless thighs cook faster.
3. What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?
Rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad make great sides for this dish.
4. How can I store honey garlic glazed chicken thighs?
Store Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I make honey garlic glazed chicken thighs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and glaze ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Also Try This: Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe