Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs served with vegetables on a plate

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy dish to prepare. This recipe combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings. The juicy chicken thighs soak up the honey garlic sauce, creating a delightful meal that pairs well with steamed rice and fresh greens. It’s a quick way to impress your guests and satisfy everyone’s taste buds!

how to make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ingredients

  • 6 boneless chicken thighs (skin on or off; can be substituted with chicken breast, see note 1)
  • ½ tsp sea salt flakes
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp tamari or all-purpose soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar) (see note 2 about gluten)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp cornflour (cornstarch) (see note 2 about gluten)
  • 2 tbsp water
  • Steamed rice
  • Steamed Chinese broccoli (gai lan) or any Asian greens
  • Finely sliced spring onion (scallion)
  • Chilli oil (optional)

Directions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken thighs, skin- or smooth-side down, and cook for 4–5 minutes or until the skin is golden and crisp. If using skin-on chicken, press down slightly using your spatula for maximum crispness. Flip and cook for another 4–5 minutes or until cooked through. Set aside on a plate. Spoon out any excess fat if preferred, leaving at least 2 tablespoons for extra flavor.
  4. In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients. Whisk to combine.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the honey garlic sauce into the pan. Let it bubble and simmer for 2–3 minutes, or until thickened and glossy. Return the chicken to the pan, turning to coat in the sauce. (If the sauce is too thin or too thick, see note 3.)
  6. Slice the chicken into strips if desired. Serve over rice with Chinese broccoli or Asian greens on the side. Spoon over any extra sauce and top with spring onion and chili oil if desired.

how to serve Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. Add a side of steamed Chinese broccoli or any Asian greens for extra color and nutrition. Drizzle with leftover sauce and sprinkle finely sliced spring onions on top. If you enjoy some heat, feel free to add a splash of chili oil!

how to store Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool down, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce for about 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • If you like your chicken crispy, make sure to not overcrowd the pan while cooking.

variation

You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. For a spicy twist, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce. Try using different vegetables like snap peas or bok choy instead of Chinese broccoli.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts. They may cook a little faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What if I can’t find tamari?
You can use regular soy sauce if you don’t need a gluten-free option.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this.