Description
Herb Honey Glazed Chicken
Ingredients:
4 chicken thighs
1/3 cup honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
Mix honey, soy sauce, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary in a bowl.
Marinate chicken for 30 minutes.
Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with marinade for flavor.
Garnish with fresh thyme and serve.
A savory twist with aromatic herbs!
#HerbHoneyChicken
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Herb Honey Glazed Chicken every time.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together 1/3 cup honey, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1 tsp dried rosemary until fully combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place 4 chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F). Alternatively, you can use a grill pan or skillet on the stovetop.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Reserve the marinade. Place chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on the first side.
- Baste and Flip: Flip the chicken thighs. Using a clean brush, baste the cooked top with the reserved marinade. Cook for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is caramelized and glazed.
- Rest and Garnish: Transfer chicken to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, serve it over a bed of mixed greens or with grilled asparagus. For something more hearty, consider creamy mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the delicious glaze. A simple cucumber salad provides a refreshing, crunchy contrast.
How-to Summary
Whisk honey, soy sauce, oil, and herbs to make a marinade. Coat chicken thighs and marinate for 30+ minutes. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade, until cooked through and glazed. Garnish with fresh thyme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but breasts are leaner and can dry out. Reduce cooking time to 5-7 minutes per side and monitor the internal temperature closely.
Is the marinade safe to use for basting?
Only if you boil it first. To safely baste, pour the reserved, unused marinade into a small saucepan, bring to a boil for 1 minute, then use. This kills any bacteria from the raw chicken.
Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake marinated thighs on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, brushing with boiled marinade in the last 10 minutes.
How can I make this recipe less sweet?
Reduce the honey to 1/4 cup and add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of apple cider vinegar to the marinade for balance.
What are good herb substitutes?
If you don’t have thyme and rosemary, try an equal mix of dried oregano and basil, or use 1 tablespoon of a pre-mixed Italian or Herbes de Provence blend.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Marinating for less than 30 minutes won’t allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- Using All the Marinade Raw: Never baste with the original, unboiled marinade after it has touched raw chicken due to food safety risks.
- Cooking at Too High Heat: This will cause the honey to burn quickly, resulting in a bitter, blackened glaze instead of a sweet caramelization.
- Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately will cause the flavorful juices to run out, leaving the meat drier.
Conclusion
This Herb Honey Glazed Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic. With its simple ingredients and flexible cooking methods, it’s an accessible dish that delivers impressive flavor. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a regular in your dinner rotation.
