Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs; 1/3 cup pure honey; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; Chopped green onions for garnish

Published: April 22, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights
The flavor profile balances sweet and savory, pleasing everyone at the table
With its golden glaze, this dish is visually stunning and makes an impressive centerpiece
It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They even argued over who would get the last piece.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bone-in Chicken Thighs: Opt for bone-in thighs for juicier meat and richer flavor while cooking.
Honey: Use pure honey for that authentic sweetness; avoid anything labeled as “honey-flavored.”
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs a punch; use multiple cloves for maximum flavor.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness without sacrificing umami.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash adds brightness and balances the sweetness of honey.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper brings warmth; don’t skimp on it!
Sesame Oil: A teaspoon adds an exotic twist to your marinade.
Chopped Green Onions: For garnish, these add color and a fresh crunch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Follow these easy steps to create your Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs masterpiece. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe.

Prep Your Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper until smooth. The aroma will instantly elevate your mood!

Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over them; ensure they’re well coated. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if you’re feeling ambitious).

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) while waiting for the chicken to soak up all those lovely flavors. This ensures crispy skin when cooked.

Bake the Chicken: Arrange marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Your kitchen should smell heavenly by now!

Baste for Extra Flavor: During baking, baste chicken with leftover marinade halfway through cooking for extra glaze and flavor depth. Keep an eye out to prevent burning!

Add Finishing Touches: Once baked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. stuffed baked potatoes Sprinkle chopped green onions on top like confetti—it’s time to celebrate!

Now that you’ve mastered Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs, you’re ready to impress family and friends alike! Serve it over rice or alongside steamed veggies for a complete meal that’s bound to steal the show. Enjoy!

You Must Know

Honey garlic chicken thighs offer an irresistible blend of sweet and savory
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike, bringing a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth
Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables for a complete meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken thighs in honey and garlic while preheating your oven to ensure maximum flavor infusion. Sear them on the stovetop for a crispy skin before baking to perfection. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Tenders With Garlic Parmesan recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out honey for maple syrup for a unique flavor twist. Adding some chili flakes can also give it a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover honey garlic chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for crispy skin or in the microwave for convenience.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always pat the chicken dry before marinating to enhance crispiness
Letting the chicken come to room temperature ensures even cooking
A meat thermometer is your best friend; aim for 165°F for perfectly cooked thighs

The first time I made honey garlic chicken thighs, my friends devoured every bite like they hadn’t eaten in days! Their delighted faces were priceless, and I knew I had struck gold.

FAQ

What sides pair well with honey garlic chicken thighs?

Steamed broccoli or jasmine rice complement this dish beautifully, enhancing its flavors.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F when fully cooked and safe to eat.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card