Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs


  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a quick and easy dish that transforms bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs into a juicy, tender, and flavorful meal. Coated in a perfectly balanced honey garlic sauce combining sweet honey, fragrant garlic, savory soy sauce, and tangy apple cider vinegar, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners. The richness of the chicken and the sticky glaze make this dish a family favorite that can be made with simple pantry staples.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped green onions
  • Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)

Optional Variations

  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick
  • Low-sodium soy sauce for a heart-friendly option
  • Tamari to make the recipe gluten-free
  • Small amount of plant-based texture solution to thicken sauce and add stickiness

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Lightly season both sides with black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for 5 minutes.
  3. Make the honey garlic sauce: While the chicken cooks, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. This mixture will infuse the chicken with sweet and savory flavor.
  4. Simmer the chicken in sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low, pour the sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Turn occasionally to coat the thighs and allow the glaze to thicken and cling beautifully to the meat.
  5. Garnish and serve: Once the chicken is cooked through and well glazed, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs if desired, then serve.

Notes

  • Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and crisp skin.
  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve a crispy skin.
  • Simmer the sauce gently over low heat to prevent the honey from burning.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to seal in the juices.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop Searing and Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, sweet and savory chicken, quick dinner, family meal