Description
This honey garlic chicken thighs recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, delivering tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze. Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family meal, this recipe is simple, quick, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
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6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup honey
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¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
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Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from skillet and set aside.
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Reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic in the same skillet for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, cover, and simmer on low for 10–12 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
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Remove the lid and cook for 2–3 more minutes, spooning sauce over the chicken to create a glossy glaze.
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Transfer to a serving plate, drizzle with remaining sauce, and garnish with parsley. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
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Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness.
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Adjust honey for desired sweetness.
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For crispier skin, avoid overcrowding the pan while searing.
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Sauce can be thickened by simmering longer or adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).
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This dish can be prepared in advance; marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes