Go Back
–+ servings
Sweet and Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Sweet and Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs for Busy Nights

This Sweet and Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is quick, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 thighs
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 thighs Chicken Thighs Opt for bone-in for richer flavor and juiciness.
For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup Honey This is the star sweetener; maple syrup works as a great alternative.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic infuses an aromatic depth; always choose fresh.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Adds essential umami flavor; swap for tamari to keep it gluten-free.
  • 2 tablespoons Vinegar (e.g., rice vinegar) Provides a zesty note; lemon juice can also work.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Drizzle in for a nutty warmth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes/Sriracha Add for a spicy twist.
  • 1 inch Fresh Ginger Grate for extra warmth and flavor complexity.

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5–7 minutes until browned. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Stir and let the mixture simmer for a minute.
  5. Return seared chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over top, and simmer for 5–10 minutes until the sauce thickens and chicken reaches 170-175°F.
  6. Serve hot, drizzling extra sauce over rice or vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1thighCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 28gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 680mgPotassium: 400mgSugar: 12gCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Pat chicken dry before searing for a crispy crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Customize flavors as desired.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!