Description
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
Juicy, tender chicken thighs baked to perfection with a sticky-sweet honey garlic glaze. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
3 tbsp soy sauce
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the chicken thighs:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Make the honey garlic sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, melted butter, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar.
Bake the chicken:
Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, basting the chicken with the sauce halfway through, until the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C).
Garnish and serve:
Remove from the oven, spoon extra sauce over the chicken, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Serve with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a simple yet delicious dinner.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for foolproof results. First, ensure your chicken thighs are thoroughly patted dry; this is crucial for crispy skin. When making the sauce, whisk vigorously to fully emulsify the melted butter with the honey and soy sauce. Use a 9×13 inch baking dish and arrange the thighs so they aren’t crowded. When baking, baste the chicken at the 20-minute mark using a spoon to scoop the pan juices over the top. Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with several sides. For a classic comfort meal, serve over a bed of fluffy jasmine or white rice to soak up the extra glaze. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus complement the sweet and savory flavors perfectly. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, add garlic mashed potatoes or a crusty baguette.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 400°F. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk honey, soy sauce, melted butter, garlic, and vinegar for the glaze. Place chicken in a dish, pour sauce over, and bake for 35-40 minutes, basting once. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs? Yes, but reduce the baking time to 25-30 minutes to prevent drying out. The skin will not be crispy.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered oven dish at 325°F or in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain moisture.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Absolutely. Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature or gently reheat before using.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? After baking, transfer the pan juices to a small saucepan. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reduces and thickens to a glaze consistency.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce for a gluten-free version? Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Coconut aminos are another excellent, slightly sweeter alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not patting the chicken dry, which leads to steamed, soggy skin instead of a crispy finish.
- Overcrowding the baking dish, which causes the chicken to steam rather than roast properly.
- Skipping the basting step, which is key for building layers of flavor and a sticky glaze.
- Using high-heat or dark honey, which can cause the sauce to burn. A mild, light honey is best.
- Not checking the internal temperature, risking undercooked or dry, overcooked chicken.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is a guaranteed winner for any night of the week. It masterfully combines minimal prep with maximum flavor, delivering juicy chicken with an irresistibly sticky-sweet glaze. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and delicious sophistication.