Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Sweet, savory, and perfectly sticky, Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are the ultimate weeknight dinner that feels like a treat. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a rich, glossy glaze that clings to juicy, tender chicken thighs, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. Whether pan-seared or baked, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to throw this recipe together with pantry staples. The balance of sweet honey and salty soy sauce with a punch of garlic makes it an irresistible meal. The sauce caramelizes beautifully, adding a gorgeous glaze and deep flavor to the chicken. Plus, it’s versatile—I can serve it over rice, noodles, or even with roasted veggies. It also reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless)
garlic cloves, minced
honey
soy sauce
olive oil or vegetable oil
rice vinegar (optional, for added depth)
cornstarch + water (optional, for thickening the sauce)
salt and pepper to taste
green onions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. I start by seasoning the chicken thighs with a bit of salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a bowl, I whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar if I’m using it.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, I add a bit of oil and sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down if using skin-on, until they’re golden and crispy—about 5–6 minutes per side.
4. Once browned, I pour in the honey garlic mixture and bring it to a simmer.
5. I let the chicken cook in the sauce, spooning it over the top occasionally, until the thighs are cooked through and the sauce thickens. If I want it even thicker, I stir in a cornstarch slurry at the end.
6. I garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving, if I have them on hand.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It typically takes 10 minutes to prep and about 25–30 minutes to cook, depending on the size of the chicken thighs. So I usually have it on the table in under 40 minutes.

Variations

• I sometimes add a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• For a citrusy twist, I swap in orange juice for part of the soy sauce or vinegar.
• If I’m short on time, I bake the chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes and pour the sauce over them in the last 10 minutes of baking.
• I can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, though I find thighs stay juicier.
• For a low-sugar option, I use a sugar-free honey substitute or reduce the amount of honey slightly.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I usually use the microwave or warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. It reheats really well and still tastes great the next day.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken thighs are fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to be sure. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when they’re done.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes cook it the night before and just reheat it. The flavors get even better after sitting in the sauce.

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken thighs?

I like serving it over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or noodles. Roasted broccoli, green beans, or bok choy also pair well.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely. I grill the chicken first, then brush on the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking so it caramelizes without burning.

Can I freeze honey garlic chicken?

Yes, I freeze the cooked chicken in the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to eat it, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a reliable favorite in my dinner rotation. They’re simple, flavorful, and always hit the spot. Whether I’m feeding the family or prepping meals for the week, this dish is a go-to I can count on for taste and ease.

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