Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes

Deliciously sticky and flavorful, honey garlic chicken thighs are a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-01T22:06:30.299Z

Honey garlic chicken thighs are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them a standout dish for any occasion. The honey caramelizes beautifully, adding a rich glaze that enhances the juicy chicken. Serve with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory glaze that elevates the chicken's flavor
Juicy and tender chicken thighs for a satisfying bite
Quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

Honey garlic chicken thighs are a fantastic blend of sweet and savory that will tantalize your taste buds. The honey adds a luscious sweetness, while the soy sauce brings depth and umami to the dish. Together, these flavors create a sticky glaze that clings to the chicken, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

This dish is not just about flavors; it also delivers on texture. The chicken thighs become juicy and tender during cooking, retaining their moisture and richness. The crispy, golden skin provides a delightful contrast, making each bite a delightful experience.

Whether you serve these chicken thighs over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad, they will elevate your meal with their vibrant flavor profile.

Easy to Prepare

One of the best aspects of this honey garlic chicken thighs recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet impressive.

The preparation involves minimal effort, from searing the chicken to whisking together the sauce. Even novice cooks will find this recipe easy to follow, and the results are sure to impress your family or guests.

Additionally, you can prepare the sauce in advance, making it even easier to pull together on a hectic evening.

Versatile and Customizable

Another reason to love this honey garlic chicken thighs recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the sauce to fit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha. For a tangier flavor, a bit more rice vinegar can do the trick.

You can also substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breasts or drumsticks, depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

This recipe also pairs well with various side dishes, such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad, making it an adaptable option for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken skin-side down until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch.

Combine and Bake

Pour the honey garlic sauce over the seared chicken thighs in the skillet. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken thighs drizzled with the remaining sauce, and enjoy!

Pair the dish with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect sear on your chicken thighs, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to lock in the juices and create a crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent proper browning.

If you're using cornstarch to thicken the sauce, mix it with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth consistency.

Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover honey garlic chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the leftovers just as delicious as when they were first made.

To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken.

If you have extra honey garlic sauce, consider using it as a marinade for other proteins or as a dressing for salads, adding versatility to your meals.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve honey garlic chicken thighs with fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed broccoli or green beans make excellent sides, adding a pop of color and nutrition to your plate.

You can also create a delicious wrap using the chicken thighs, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of sauce, all wrapped in a tortilla for a quick lunch option.

For a special occasion, consider pairing the chicken with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. Just reduce the cooking time slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with honey garlic chicken thighs?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.