Delicious Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe | Quick & Easy
Looking for a quick, delicious dinner idea? Look no further than Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs! This recipe is a game-changer, offering tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a sticky, mouthwatering honey-garlic sauce. With just 5 simple ingredients and a total cook time of 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend meal.
Table of Contents
The Best Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe
This Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is a must-try. The combination of garlic, honey, and soy sauce creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser. Garnish with parsley and serve over your choice of vegetables, rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes on Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: Both bone-in and boneless work well. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.
- Garlic Powder, Salt, and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken.
- Garlic Cloves: Crushed garlic adds a fresh, robust flavor.
- Honey: Provides the sweetness and stickiness of the sauce.
- Water: Can be substituted with chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Rice Wine Vinegar and Soy Sauce: Add depth and umami to the sauce.
How to Make Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown, about 10 to 12 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). Drain most of the excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons.
- Add Garlic and Sauce Ingredients: Place the chicken skin-side down, add crushed garlic between the thighs, and fry until fragrant. Then, add honey, water, rice wine vinegar, and soy sauce.
- Cook the Sauce: Increase the heat to medium-high and cook until the sauce reduces and thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes.
How to Serve Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs
Serve these delightful chicken thighs over a bed of steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. They also pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a simple stir-fry. Garnish with parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
How to Store Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 352.57 kcal | 18% |
| Total Fat | 21.46 g | 31% |
| Carbs | 17.71 g | 7% |
| Sugars | 15.43 g | 17% |
| Protein | 22.02 g | 44% |
| Sodium | 383.71 mg | 19% |
| Fiber | 0.26 g | 1% |
| Saturated Fat | 5.84 g | 29% |
| Trans Fat | 0.11 g | – |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 8.96 g | – |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.48 g | – |
| Cholesterol | 126.41 mg | 42% |
| Calcium | 18.03 mg | 2% |
| Magnesium | 26.53 mg | 7% |
| Potassium | 305.16 mg | 9% |
| Iron | 1.21 mg | 9% |
| Zinc | 1.83 mg | 18% |
| Phosphorus | 216.03 mg | 31% |
| Vitamin A | 30.54 mcg | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 1.04 mg | 1% |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.11 mg | 10% |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.2 mg | 15% |
| Niacin (B3) | 6.12 mg | 38% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.51 mg | 37% |
| Folic Acid (B9) | 5.32 mcg | 3% |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.8 mcg | 33% |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 2% |
| Vitamin E | 0.28 mg | 2% |
| Vitamin K | 3.04 mcg | 4% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
FAQs About Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but the cooking time may vary. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for rice wine vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be used as substitutes for rice wine vinegar.
The Best Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 6 cloves garlic crushed
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions
- Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden, 10 to 12 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the centers should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Drain most of the excess grease from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons behind.
- Arrange chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan. Place crushed garlic between the chicken and fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add honey, water, vinegar, and soy sauce. Increase heat to medium-high and cook until sauce reduces down and thickens slightly, 3 to 4 minutes.
Enjoy your cooking experience with this easy and delectable Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe!
