Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Introduction

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs is a delicious and easy dish that brings sweet and savory flavors together. With tender chicken thighs simmered in a sticky honey garlic sauce, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve it over rice, and you have a meal that your whole family will love!

Why Make This Recipe

Making Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs at home is simple and satisfying. This recipe uses common ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s quick to prepare and cooks in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the sweet and garlicky sauce is irresistible and pairs perfectly with rice, making it a complete meal.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp oil (olive or vegetable)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Directions:

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes per side until they are browned.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, garlic, and vinegar. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the chicken.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the chicken in the sauce for 7–10 minutes, flipping occasionally.
4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
5. Plate the chicken over cooked rice, spoon extra sauce on top, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice absorbs the sweet garlic sauce, making each bite flavorful. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool down to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop or microwave.

Tips to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce and honey mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or a splash of vinegar according to your taste.

Variation

You can switch up the recipe by using chicken breasts instead of thighs. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas to the skillet for a one-pan meal. For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs. Just increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I substitute for honey?
If you want a sugar-free alternative, you can use maple syrup or a sugar substitute that measures like honey.

Can I make this in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven. Place seasoned chicken thighs in a baking dish, pour the sauce over them, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.