Description
This Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs baked in a flavorful marinade of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of apple cider vinegar. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is enhanced by sesame oil and seeds, creating a deliciously sticky glaze perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- Salt and pepper to taste
Marinade
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure crispy skin. Season both sides with salt and pepper evenly.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and sesame oil until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a large baking dish in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Add the Marinade: Pour the honey garlic marinade over the chicken thighs, making sure they are well coated. Use a spoon to spread the marinade over the top of each piece for maximum flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with the pan juices to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken thighs rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chicken with sesame seeds and freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving to add a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, place the chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- You can substitute fresh parsley with cilantro depending on your preference or availability.
- Adjust the amount of honey if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet glaze.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
