Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Table of Contents
- Recipe Introduction
- What you'll need: The Ingredient Line-Up
- Why this recipe rocks: My story
- Getting Started: It's Easier Than You Think
- Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Ever!
- Cooking Up a Storm: Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs (Easy Peasy!)
- Recipe Notes for Your Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Masterpiece
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever had that takeaway craving? You know, the one where you want something sweet and savoury. This Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe hits the spot every time.
It’s got that sticky, garlicky goodness that'll have you licking your fingers!
Brief Overview
The sauce is inspired by classic Chinese takeout flavors. It is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. This Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe is simple.
Prep takes 10 minutes . Cooking is 25 minutes . It yields 4 servings .
Main Benefits
Honestly, it's delicious and relatively healthy ish. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein. Make Honey Garlic Chicken any night of the week.
But it’s also fab for a casual get-together. What makes this recipe special? It's that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy.
So, are you thinking what I'm thinking? Right, let's get into ingredients!
What you'll need: The Ingredient Line-Up
Before we start, make sure you have the following ingredients. Don't worry if you don't have everything. There are always substitutions and it's a pretty flexible recipe.
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (around 600g)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)
Why this recipe rocks: My story
I swear, the first time I made Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken , my husband declared me a culinary genius. I felt like Nigella Lawson, honestly!.
Maybe it was the wine, or maybe it was the incredible flavor. Either way, it's now a regular in our household.
Plus, my Aunt Mildred actually asked for this recipe. That's how you know it's good! This Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken will save your takeaways nights!.
I tried with different chicken pieces. But the Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is truly amazing.
Getting Started: It's Easier Than You Think
This Honey Chicken Recipe is very manageable. You don't need to be a chef. And you don't need fancy equipment.
Just a pan and a bit of ensoiasm. So, let's get to it!.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Ever!
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make these ridiculously tasty Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs . Trust me, this honey chicken recipe is a keeper.
Main Ingredients: Let's Get Down to Brass Tacks
For the Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe , you’ll need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 600g or 1.3 lbs ). Get good quality ones, you know?
- 1 tbsp (that’s 15ml ) of vegetable oil.
- Salt and pepper to taste. Don't be shy!
And for that ridiculously good Honey Garlic Chicken sauce:
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced. Roughly 12g .
- 1/4 cup ( 85g / 3 oz ) of honey. Go for the good stuff.
- 2 tbsp ( 30ml ) of soy sauce.
- 1 tbsp ( 15ml ) of rice vinegar. Or white wine vinegar will do in a pinch.
- 1 tbsp ( 15ml ) of water.
- 1 tsp ( 3g ) of cornstarch.
- 1/4 tsp of red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick).
Don't forget the optional garnish: sesame seeds and chopped green onions. These can really make all the difference for the Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
Seasoning Notes: Secret Sauces and Substitutions
Garlic and honey are the power couple here, obviously. But soy sauce gives it that umami, that je ne sais quoi .
A little rice vinegar adds brightness. Red pepper flakes? Well that makes it interesting to produce great Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs .
Spice it up! A pinch of cayenne pepper would be amazing. No rice vinegar? Use white wine vinegar. Just try not to skip the garlic, alright?
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple, Stupid!
You don't need much to whip up these Garlic Honey Chicken Thighs Oven or Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Skillet style.
- A large skillet or frying pan. Cast iron is boss.
- A small bowl for mixing the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Duh.
- A meat thermometer. Seriously. Get one. Cook chicken to 165° F ( 74° C) to be safe.
Honestly, that's it. No fancy stuff. Now get cooking!.
When considering alternative Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken , one thing you might think is that you're missing out on using a wok.
But using a skillet with a good non-stick coating is perfectly fine. Another key to a good chicken is to follow the Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Marinade preparation to make the meat even tastier.
Cooking Up a Storm: Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs (Easy Peasy!)
Honestly, who doesn't love honey garlic chicken ? It's like a hug in a bowl. This Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is so simple, even I can't mess it up! And that's saying something, considering my track record in the kitchen.
This easy honey garlic chicken thighs recipe is for all levels of cooking. This Honey Chicken Recipe is great for all occasions.
Prep Like a Pro: The Secret to Stress Free Cooking
Mise en place, darling! Get everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. Mince 4 cloves of garlic. Mix your sauce: 1/4 cup honey , 2 tablespoons soy sauce , 1 tablespoon rice vinegar , 1 tablespoon water , and 1 teaspoon cornstarch , plus a pinch of red pepper flakes if you're feeling frisky.
Pat those 4 chicken thighs dry. Season 'em generously with salt and pepper. Having all your bits and bobs ready saves loads of time and prevents that "Oh my gosh, I forgot the garlic!" moment halfway through cooking.
Searing to Simmering: Your step-by-step Guide to Perfection
Right then, let's get cooking.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in your skillet over medium high heat.
- Sear the 4 Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs , skin down, for 6- 8 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and sear for another 3- 4 minutes . Crispy skin is key for Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Pour in that glorious Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Marinade sauce.
- Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and cook for 15- 20 minutes , or until the internal temp reaches 165° F ( 74° C) . Remember to baste the chicken occasionally with the sauce!
- Remove the chicken and let the sauce reduce for a few minutes if needed. This makes a lovely Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken
Top Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken Glory
For extra crispy skin, make sure those thighs are bone-in and skin-on. Don't overcrowd the pan. If your pan isn't big enough, cook the chicken in batches.
This ensures everything browns evenly. If you prefer Garlic Honey Chicken Thighs Oven , preheat it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit before starting.
Avoid burning the sauce. Keep an eye on it, especially during that final reduction stage. High heat plus honey equals burnt offerings! Fancy a bit of spice? A dash of sriracha really elevates the flavor.
Or, try this as a Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken .
Honestly, this Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Skillet recipe is a game changer. It's quick, it's easy, and it's totally delicious. Give it a go and let me know what you think! This is the Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe that you can cook in 35 minutes!
Recipe Notes for Your Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Masterpiece
Right, so you’re ready to whip up some Honey Garlic Chicken ? Fantastic! Before you get started, let’s have a little natter about some extra bits and bobs.
These will make your cooking experience even better. These are the little things that I learned when I was trying to make the best Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken this side of the River Thames.
Trust me; they're worth knowing.
Ace Serving Ideas, Guv'nor
Plating and Presentation, Sorted
First things first, presentation matters! Plating up this Honey Chicken Recipe beautifully is a doddle. I like to pile the Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs high on a plate, then drizzle extra sauce all over.
A sprinkle of sesame seeds and some chopped spring onions adds a pop of colour. Honestly, it makes all the difference.
Sides and Drinks: Sorted
For sides, steamed rice is a classic. It's great at soaking up the honey garlic sauce . I also love serving this with roasted broccoli or green beans.
Fancy a drink? A crisp white wine or a light beer complements the flavours beautifully. If you're after something non-alcoholic, then a sparkling water with a slice of lemon will be just the ticket.
Ace Storage Tips, Guv'nor
Keepin' it Fresh, Mate
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.
The chicken will last 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.
Nobody wants dry chicken, do they? Reheat to a minimum internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) .
Ace Variations, Guv'nor
Dietary Tweaks, Sorted
Need a gluten-free version? No worries! Just swap the soy sauce for tamari. Want to cut down on the honey? Use a little maple syrup instead, but remember that will affect the flavour.
Seasonal Swaps, Sorted
During the summer, throw some fresh peaches or pineapple on the grill alongside the chicken. The fruity sweetness pairs beautifully with the Garlic Honey Chicken Thighs Oven or Skillet.
In winter, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the sauce for a warm and cozy flavour.
Ace Nutrition Basics, Guv'nor
Nosh Info, Sorted
Let's be real, this Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe is pretty delicious, but it's also reasonably balanced. The chicken provides protein, while the honey offers energy.
The garlic is great for your immune system. Each serving has about 400 calories. It's high in protein and moderate in fat and carbs.
It's not diet food, but it’s definitely good for the soul. The Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Marinade gives it that extra flavour kick!
So there you have it! Armed with these handy notes, you are all set. Go on, give it a go, and don't be afraid to experiment.
Happy cooking, my friend, and enjoy your Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken !
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for these honey garlic chicken thighs?
You certainly can, but keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to dry out faster than thighs. If using chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time significantly about 15-20 minutes total and make sure to monitor them closely with a meat thermometer. Nobody wants a dry chook!
What's the best way to get super crispy skin on my honey garlic chicken thighs?
Crispy skin is all about removing moisture! First, pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. Then, sear them skin side down in hot oil over medium high heat without moving them for a good 6-8 minutes.
Resist the urge to peek let that skin get nice and golden brown before flipping.
How do I store leftover honey garlic chicken thighs?
Leftovers are brilliant! Store your honey garlic chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium low heat or a gentle microwave setting to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Adding a splash of water or chicken broth can also help keep it moist. No one wants a sad, dry reheat.
My honey garlic sauce is too thin! How do I thicken it up?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Increase the heat to medium high and let the sauce simmer rapidly, stirring frequently, until it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency.
Be careful though, as it can burn quickly once it starts to thicken a little like trying to watch paint dry, but then suddenly it's done!
Can I make this honey garlic chicken thighs recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! The key is to swap out the soy sauce for tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Double check all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well. With that simple swap, you're good to go!
I'm watching my sugar intake. Can I reduce the amount of honey in these honey garlic chicken thighs?
You can definitely adjust the honey to suit your taste. Start by reducing the honey to half the amount, and then taste the sauce before adding more. You could also consider using a honey substitute like maple syrup (although it will slightly alter the flavour profile) or a sugar-free sweetener specifically designed for cooking.
However, remember that the honey is not just about sweetness; it contributes to the sauce's texture and helps it caramelize, so you might need to adjust the cooking time or add a touch of cornstarch to compensate.
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 400 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 0g |