Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs
These Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs are juicy, tender, and coated in a delicious sticky glaze made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of tangy vinegar. The chicken caramelizes beautifully as it cooks, creating an easy dinner that’s packed with sweet and savory flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, optional
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions, for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, optional
Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with smoked paprika, black pepper, and a small amount of salt.
2. Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and grated ginger if using.
Set aside.
3. Sear the Chicken
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the chicken thighs skin-side down if using bone-in, skin-on thighs.
Sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
4. Add the Glaze
Reduce the heat to medium-low.
Pour the honey garlic mixture over the chicken, turning the thighs gently so they’re coated.
Allow the sauce to simmer for 2–3 minutes.
5. Finish Cooking
If using an oven-safe skillet, transfer it to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven.
Bake for approximately 15–20 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs.
The chicken is done when the thickest part reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
For extra caramelization, spoon the glaze over the chicken during the final few minutes.
6. Reduce the Glaze
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes.
If the glaze is thin, simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Garnish and Serve
Spoon the sticky honey garlic glaze over the chicken.
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Serve with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or noodles.
Recipe Tips
- Chicken thighs are naturally flavorful and remain juicy during cooking.
- Don’t add too much salt because soy sauce is already salty.
- Keep an eye on the glaze because honey can caramelize quickly.
- For a spicy version, add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Boneless thighs will generally cook faster than bone-in thighs.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Prep & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 6
Meta Description
Make juicy Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs coated in a sticky sweet-and-savory sauce with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger. An easy flavorful family dinner.