This honey garlic chicken recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The tender chicken, glazed in a sticky honey garlic sauce, pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables, making it a hit at any table. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 24g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 0g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and pour the honey garlic mixture over it.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Occasionally baste the chicken with the sauce for extra flavor.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. You can also use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan alternative, although the flavor will slightly differ.
Serving and Pairings
This honey garlic chicken is delicious served over steamed rice or quinoa. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor and texture.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip searing the chicken for a crispy skin.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Make sure to baste the chicken for moisture and flavor.
- Use fresh garlic for the best taste.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes for more flavor.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Garnish with sesame seeds for added texture.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust cooking time as it cooks faster than bone-in chicken.
What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?
This dish goes well with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
How spicy is honey garlic chicken?
The recipe is not spicy; however, you can add chili flakes for heat if desired.
Conclusion
This honey garlic chicken recipe is a fantastic option for a quick and flavorful meal. Its balance of sweetness and savory notes makes it a family favorite. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying dinner experience.
Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and pour the honey garlic mixture over it.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Occasionally baste the chicken with the sauce for extra flavor.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
