Juicy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs (Easy & Flavor-Packed)
This honey garlic chicken thighs recipe is juicy, sweet, savory, and ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Includes stovetop and oven instructions.
Introduction:
Looking for a dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to please the whole family? These Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs check all the boxes! With a golden, sticky glaze made from pantry staples, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
You can cook them on the stovetop, grill, or bake them in the oven—making it a go-to for any season. Serve with rice, noodles, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
- Flavorful: Sweet, salty, garlicky, and slightly tangy
- Versatile: Works with boneless or bone-in thighs
- Meal prep friendly: Great for lunchboxes and leftovers
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅓ cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions, sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Return Chicken & Glaze
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over. Cook another 5–7 minutes, flipping once, until the sauce is thick and the chicken is fully cooked.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches for best sear.
- Use a thermometer: Internal temp should be 165°F (75°C).
- Make it crispy: Broil for 2 minutes at the end if using the oven.
- Add veggies: Stir-fry bell peppers or snap peas in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Garlic noodles
- Roasted broccoli or bok choy
- Cucumber salad or slaw
Make Ahead & Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken + sauce for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen sauce.
Variations & Substitutes
- Swap thighs for chicken breasts or tofu
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option
- Add ginger for extra depth
- Make it spicy with Sriracha or gochujang
Final Thoughts
This honey garlic chicken thigh recipe is a weeknight hero—easy enough for beginners and tasty enough for guests. Sticky, savory, and deeply satisfying, it’s the kind of dish you’ll keep in regular rotation.
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