Quick Description
These Honey Glazed Chicken Thighs are juicy, tender, and coated in a sticky-sweet glaze with savory garlic and soy flavors. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing main dish.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
Ingredients List
Chicken
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Honey Glaze
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or low-sodium)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Sear
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken skin-side down for 5–6 minutes until golden.
- Flip and cook 2 minutes more. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Glaze
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
- Add butter and garlic; sauté 30 seconds.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, vinegar, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Bake
- Return chicken to skillet, spoon glaze over each thigh.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake 25–30 minutes, basting once halfway.
- Chicken is done when internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Finish
- Optional: Broil 2–3 minutes for extra caramelization.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Steamed rice or jasmine rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- Fresh green salad
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Add ginger for Asian-style flavor
- Swap honey for maple syrup
- Use boneless thighs for faster cooking
- Add orange juice + zest for citrus glaze
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: 4 days
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
- Reheat gently to keep glaze glossy
FAQs
Can I grill these instead?
Yes—grill over medium heat and brush glaze during the last 5 minutes.
Can I make it keto?
Use a sugar-free honey substitute and coconut aminos.
