Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Sticky, sweet, and packed with garlic flavor, these honey garlic chicken thighs are pan-seared to golden perfection and glazed in a mouthwatering sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs skin-on or skinless
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: chili flakes sesame seeds, chopped green onions
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken : Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help them brown properly. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken : Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for 5–7 minutes until golden and crisp. Flip and cook the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove excess grease if needed.
- Mix the Sauce : While the chicken sears, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar (or lemon juice) in a bowl. Stir until blended.
- Add the Glaze : Reduce heat to medium-low and pour the sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes. Spoon the glaze over the chicken occasionally to help it reduce and caramelize. The sauce will thicken and coat the chicken as it cooks.
- Finish and Serve : Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F), remove from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or chili flakes for extra flavor and texture. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
Pros
- Big flavor using just pantry staples
- Weeknight-friendly and ready in 40 minutes
- Sticky-sweet glaze is always a hit
- Budget-friendly protein
- Versatile for rice, noodles, or salads
Cons
- Sauce can thicken too quickly if overheated
- Not ideal for freezing once glazed
- Requires attentive stovetop cooking