Print

Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Sticky Glazed Perfection

honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

These honey garlic chicken thighs are quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. The sticky, lacquered glaze clings to every inch of the chicken, creating a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6–8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for extra-thick glaze)
  • 2–3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable or avocado oil (for searing)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Set aside.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side.
  4. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken thighs. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer. Spoon the sauce over the chicken occasionally.
  5. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a thicker glaze.
  6. Remove from heat. Drizzle with sesame oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip patting the chicken dry for crispy skin. Watch the heat to prevent honey from burning. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, chicken thighs, sticky glaze, easy weeknight dinner, Asian chicken recipe