I have always been a fan of Asian-inspired recipes, and this honey soy chicken thigh recipe is one of my favorites. The dish has a rich history in Chinese cuisine, where it’s known as ‘honey glazed chicken thighs.’
I love how the sweet and savory flavors of the honey soy sauce complement the tender chicken. The key to making this recipe work is to marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and spices before baking them to perfection.
This technique allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, making it incredibly juicy and full of flavor. My family loves this recipe for its ease of preparation and versatility – we can serve it as a main dish or add it to a buffet for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Plus, it’s a relatively healthy option compared to some other fried or breaded chicken recipes. I’ve made this dish countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a quick weeknight dinner.
It never fails to impress! The best part is that it’s so easy to customize – I like to add some sliced bell peppers or carrots to the baking sheet for added color and nutrients.
And did I mention how much my kids adore helping me make this recipe? They love mixing up the marinade and watching the chicken transform from raw to golden brown perfection.
Honey Soy Chicken Thighs
4.8 from 1341 votes
Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a sweet and savory honey soy glaze, then baked until golden and caramelized. This easy weeknight dinner pairs perfectly with steamed rice and vegetables.
1In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and vegetable oil until the honey is fully dissolved.
2The marinade should be smooth and slightly thick.
3Place the chicken thighs in a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the marinade over them, turning each piece to coat evenly.
4Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
5Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
6Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while the oven heats.
7Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in the baking dish, spacing them evenly.
8Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, basting with the pan juices halfway through, until the skin is golden brown and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
9While the chicken bakes, toast the sesame seeds in a small dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly golden.
10Remove from heat and set aside.
11Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
12Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
For extra caramelization, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning. You can substitute boneless, skinless thighs if desired, but reduce the baking time to 20 to 25 minutes.
Watch Video Of How Honey Soy Chicken Thighs Works
To store leftover honey soy chicken thighs let them cool completely then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For reheating I like to use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to bring back the glaze and keep the meat moist.
You can also reheat in the microwave but the skin may lose some crispness. For serving ideas I often shred the leftover chicken and toss it with noodles or serve it over a bed of greens for a quick lunch.
This recipe is always a good idea for family gatherings because it is easy to double and everyone loves the sweet and savory flavor. I hope you give it a try and make it your own.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Soy Chicken Thighs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts but the cooking time will be shorter. Chicken breasts are leaner so they can dry out if overcooked. Reduce the simmer time by a few minutes and check the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker glaze you can mix one teaspoon of cornstarch with two teaspoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. Let it simmer for another minute until it thickens to your liking.
3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes you can use a slow cooker for this recipe. Brown the chicken thighs in a skillet first then transfer them to the slow cooker with the honey soy mixture. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. For a thicker sauce remove the chicken and simmer the liquid on the stovetop for a few minutes.
4. What can I serve with honey soy chicken thighs?
This dish goes well with steamed white rice or brown rice. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar makes a refreshing side.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The sauce may thicken as it sits so add a splash of water when reheating if needed.
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