Gather Your Ingredients

The combination of honey and garlic creates an amazing sauce that works perfectly with so many dishes. From honey garlic shrimp to honey garlic salmon and honey garlic popcorn chicken, this versatile flavor pairing is a must-have in any kitchen.

By simmering the garlic-infused sauce on the stovetop, it becomes a delectable, sticky glaze that clings to every piece of chicken. It is a flavorful blend of savory and sweet, and it’s highly addictive. These oven-baked chicken thighs are perhaps the best way to experience this combination. And the best part? This recipe relies on ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this dish:

• Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are recommended because they retain more moisture during cooking and develop irresistibly crispy skin. Boneless thighs can be substituted, but you should adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Honey: Adds a natural sweetness and encourages caramelization. Alternatives include maple syrup or agave nectar, but they may alter the flavor profile slightly.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavor. If needed, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder can be substituted.
• Balsamic vinegar: Introduces a tangy depth to balance the honey’s sweetness. If balsamic isn’t available, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are excellent substitutes.
• Soy sauce: Contributes a salty, umami flavor. Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control the overall saltiness of the dish. Tamari is a suitable gluten-free alternative, and coconut aminos can be used for those avoiding soy.
• Fresh ginger: Adds a subtle zing that elevates the sauce. In a pinch, ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger can be used. A helpful tip: Store leftover ginger root in the freezer—it stays fresh and is easy to grate when frozen!
• Scallions: Provide color and a mild onion flavor. Chives or a small amount of finely minced shallot can be used as replacements.
• Cornstarch: This helps thicken the glaze into a syrupy consistency.

For complete ingredient information and quantities, refer to the recipe card.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

This honey garlic chicken thighs recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. It’s simple to prepare and results in minimal cleanup – only one pan for baking and a saucepan for creating the honey and garlic glaze.

1. Marinate the chicken. Combine balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, ginger, scallions, and salt in a large resealable bag. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for enhanced flavor.
2. Bake, then broil. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with foil, keeping the marinade for later. Bake for 30 minutes, then flip the thighs to skin-side up and broil for about 5 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches at least 165ºF.
3. Prepare the honey balsamic sauce. While the chicken is baking, boil the reserved marinade in a saucepan. Mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the boiling marinade. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens into a syrupy glaze, approximately 5 minutes.

Important Safety Note: Make sure to boil the marinade to fully eliminate any bacteria from the raw chicken!

4. Serve. Take the baked chicken thighs from the oven, brush them with the prepared glaze, and serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Thighs

• Marinating the chicken overnight yields the most intensely flavored thighs.
• Baking chicken thighs with the skin on ensures they stay tender and juicy. The skin can be removed after baking, if desired.
• Chicken breasts can be substituted, but you’ll need to shorten the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
• To grill chicken thighs, make sure the grill is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
• Leftover chicken can be shredded and added to salads or wraps for a quick and tasty lunch.

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving this chicken dish with creamy coconut rice and sautéed vegetables. Other delicious sides include mashed potatoes, crispy vegetable fritters, or a classic three-bean salad. Add fudgy brownie cupcakes for dessert to complete the meal!

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