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If you're in search of a dish that masterfully balances sweet and savory flavors, look no further than Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. This delightful recipe brings together the rich, tender goodness of chicken thighs with the comforting sweetness of honey and the aromatic zing of garlic. The combination not only tantalizes your taste buds but also adds a touch of elegance to your dining experience, making it equally suitable for casual weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory with Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. This simple yet elegant recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a delicious honey-garlic mixture, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, these tender thighs are easy to prepare and come together quickly. Serve over rice or with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal that will impress family and friends alike. Discover new cooking techniques and tips for achieving crispy skin and juicy meat! Enjoy the delightful taste of this gluten-free dish that balances comfort and sophistication effortlessly.

Ingredients
  

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or substitute with apple cider vinegar)

1 teaspoon sesame oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for a deeper flavor infusion.

    Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

      Sear the Chicken Thighs: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, ensuring to reserve the remaining marinade for later use. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down. Sear for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is beautifully golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken thighs and sear for an additional 3-4 minutes on the opposite side until browned.

        Add the Marinade: Carefully pour the reserved marinade over the seared chicken thighs in the skillet. Ensure that the thighs are well-saturated with the sauce for maximum flavor.

          Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked. Halfway through the baking process, baste the chicken with the sauce to enhance the depth of flavor and ensure it stays moist.

            Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with the chopped green onions and, if desired, a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Serve the chicken with steamed rice or your choice of favorite vegetables to soak up that delicious honey garlic sauce!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour 5 minutes | Serves 4