Honey Garlic Chicken

I still remember the first time I made honey garlic chicken for a casual weeknight dinner and I had no idea it would become a regular request in my house. The aroma alone as it baked in the oven had everyone peeking into the kitchen and asking when dinner would be ready and I couldn’t help but smile at how something so simple could make everyone so excited.

What surprised me most was how easy it was to bring bold flavor using just a few pantry staples and now whenever I want a no-fuss dish that satisfies every craving from sweet to savory to sticky to juicy this recipe is my go-to. It’s perfect for busy evenings and it feels just a bit special thanks to the glossy honey glaze and the sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful, they’re the perfect cut for soaking up the sticky glaze.
• Garlic – Adds bold savory depth and aroma that makes this dish pop.
• Honey – Brings natural sweetness and helps create the glossy caramelized finish.
• Soy sauce – Balances the sweetness and adds salty umami richness.
• Apple cider vinegar – Brightens the glaze and cuts through the richness.
• Sesame oil – Enhances the flavor with a warm toasty note.
• Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce for that perfect sticky texture.
• Green onions – Fresh and bright for a final pop of flavor and color.
• Sesame seeds – Add crunch and nutty aroma to finish off the dish beautifully.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – To whisk together the marinade and glaze.
• Whisk – Essential for blending the sauce evenly and dissolving the cornstarch.
• Measuring spoons – To make sure each ingredient is balanced just right.
• Baking dish or sheet pan – I use this to roast the chicken evenly in the oven.
• Basting brush – Optional, but I like to brush extra glaze on while baking for more flavor.
• Tongs – These make turning the chicken mess-free and easy.
• Small saucepan – For thickening any leftover glaze if I want more for serving.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by preheating the oven to 400°F because this ensures a hot start that helps caramelize the glaze.

Step 2:

In a small bowl, I whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, and apple cider vinegar. I make sure everything is combined and smooth before setting it aside.

Step 3:

I place the chicken thighs in a baking dish skin-side up and I pour the marinade all over them and use tongs to coat each piece thoroughly.

Step 4:

I pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes and I baste with the sauce halfway through to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Step 5:

While the chicken finishes baking, I pour any leftover marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer. Then I whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with water and stir until the sauce thickens into a glaze.

Step 6:

Once the chicken is golden and caramelized and the internal temperature hits 165°F I pull it out and let it rest a few minutes before serving.

Step 7:

I drizzle the thickened glaze on top and finish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and a pretty presentation.

Tips

If you want to crisp up the skin more I suggest broiling the chicken for the last 2–3 minutes. I also sometimes swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or wings depending on what I have on hand. And if I’m serving this for a crowd I double the glaze so there’s extra to spoon over rice or veggies!

Ways to Serve

I love serving this honey garlic chicken over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa and I sometimes add a side of roasted broccoli or sautéed bok choy. It’s also amazing cold the next day sliced over a salad or tucked into lettuce wraps for lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make honey garlic chicken with chicken breasts?

Yes you can use chicken breasts and just adjust the cooking time slightly because they cook faster than thighs.

How long does honey garlic chicken last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze honey garlic chicken?

Yes this recipe freezes well and I let it cool completely then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this honey garlic chicken and fall in love with it like I did! It’s the perfect blend of sweet savory and sticky and it always hits the spot. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share how yours turns out – I’d love to see your delicious creations!

Happy Cooking!

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