Name: Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 32 min
Total time: 102 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 Tablespoons minced garlic; 1 Tablespoon minced fresh ginger; 2 Tablespoons chopped scallions; 8 large bone-in, skin on chicken thighs; 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Introduction to Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

If you’re a busy young professional constantly juggling work deadlines and social commitments, glazed honey soy chicken thighs might just become your new go-to dish. Not only are they a cinch to prepare, but they also pack a punch of flavor that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of marinated chicken wafting through your kitchen. Simply toss the ingredients together and let the marinade work its magic while you tackle the laundry or catch up on that book you’ve been meaning to read.

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Pair these succulent thighs with rice, noodles, or a medley of veggies for a complete meal. Plus, the honey-soy glaze creates a sticky, savory coating that elevates this dish to comfort-food status without a ton of time in the kitchen. When you're ready to indulge, a quick bake in the oven transforms the chicken thighs into crispy, flavorful bites.

Ready to shake up your weeknight routine? Dive into this simple yet delightful recipe and discover the joy of home-cooked meals that fit right into your hectic lifestyle. For a taste of sweet and savory bliss, let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

Creating delicious glazed honey soy chicken thighs requires a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s take a closer look!

½ cup low sodium soy sauce: This provides the essential umami flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
½ cup honey: Using honey not only adds sweetness but also helps to create that irresistible glaze.
¼ cup fresh lime juice: This zesty addition adds brightness and balances the flavors perfectly.
¼ cup vegetable oil: Essential for marinating, it helps tenderize the chicken and ensures a juicy outcome.
2 Tablespoons minced garlic: Garlic is a must for depth; it gives the dish its aromatic kick.
1 Tablespoon minced fresh ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and a bit of zing to each bite.
2 Tablespoons chopped scallions: These will give a fresh and crisp finish to the dish.
8 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Thighs are fantastic for their rich flavor and moisture.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: This is key for thickening your glaze.

For detailed steps on how to combine these ingredients into a delightful dinner, be sure to check out this guide on marinating techniques for some tips!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

Getting ready to dig into some delicious glazed honey soy chicken thighs? Let’s make the prep process smooth and easy with these simple steps.

Marinating the chicken

To start off, marinating the chicken is essential for infusing those rich flavors into every bite. Grab a large sealable bag and whisk together the following ingredients:

½ cup low sodium soy sauce
½ cup honey
¼ cup fresh lime juice
¼ cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
2 tablespoons chopped scallions
A dash of pepper

Once everything is well mixed, pop in those lovely bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, seal the bag, and give it a gentle shake to coat them. Now, refrigerate this mixture for at least an hour. This wait allows the marinade to work its magic, making your chicken tender and flavorful.

Preheating the oven and preparing the baking sheet

While the chicken is resting in the refrigerator, it’s time to get your kitchen ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) with the rack placed centrally. A hot oven helps the chicken to roast beautifully.

Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Then, lay an oven-proof baking rack on top of it. This setup allows any excess fat to drip away, leaving you with perfectly crispy chicken thighs!

Making the glaze

Now for the pièce de résistance—the glaze! After an hour, take out the marinade, but remember to reserve it for later. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add the reserved marinade and bring it to a boil.

While it heats, whisk together 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a separate bowl. Once your marinade is boiling, mix in the cornstarch slurry and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency (about 5 minutes). This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures safety by eliminating any bacteria from the raw chicken.

Baking the chicken

Now, it’s showtime! Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off the excess. Arrange the thighs skin-side up on your baking rack and bake them for about 15 minutes. This initial phase sets the foundation for a crispy crust.

After that first phase, brush those thighs generously with your homemade glaze. Return them to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear—trust me, that golden color will be irresistible!

Final touches and serving

Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken and give it a final brush with glaze for a mouthwatering shine. Serve your glazed honey soy chicken thighs over a bed of rice, noodles, or alongside steamed veggies. You’ll find the balanced sweetness and savory soy flavors simply enchanting!

For more culinary inspiration, check out Serious Eats for a wide range of chicken recipes that will keep your taste buds excited! Enjoy your feast!

Variations on Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

Honey Soy Chicken with Sesame Seeds

For a delightful twist on your glazed honey soy chicken thighs, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish. This adds a nutty flavor and a nice crunch, enhancing the overall texture. Serve it with steamed broccoli or carrots for a vibrant and nutritious meal. Not only will your dinner look great, but it'll also impress your friends and family with its gourmet touch! For an extra layer of flavor, try incorporating a dash of sesame oil into the glaze as you mix your marinade.

Spicy Honey Soy Chicken

If you’re looking to ramp up the heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to your marinade. This spicy honey soy chicken variant will give your taste buds a delicious kick while balancing the sweetness of honey and the saltiness of soy sauce. Pair it with some jasmine rice and a cold cucumber salad to cool down the heat. Feeling adventurous? You can even experiment with chili garlic sauce for a different spice profile.

Explore these variations to elevate your cooking and satisfy diverse palates. Don't hesitate to experiment and find the combination that best suits your taste!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

Prepare Ahead for Flavor

For the best results, marinate your glazed honey soy chicken thighs for at least one hour. If you can plan ahead, marinating overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavor even more. The soy sauce and honey blend will deeply penetrate the meat, making it juicy and packed with taste.

Perfect the Glaze

When making the glaze, ensure it reaches a boil to safely eliminate any bacteria from the raw chicken. Stir consistently while it thickens to achieve that syrup-like consistency. It’s what gives your chicken that irresistible shine!

Serving Ideas

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or stir-fried veggies. Want to add some crunch? Consider topping the chicken with chopped nuts or sesame seeds for added texture. Don’t forget to check out this link for more serving ideas to inspire your meal!

Serving Suggestions for Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

When it comes to glazed honey soy chicken thighs, the options for pairing are as delightful as the dish itself. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience:

Serve with Rice: Fluffy jasmine or brown rice absorbs the sweet and savory glaze, creating a harmonious balance.
Noodles for Variety: Consider tossing the chicken on a bed of noodles—think soba or udon—for a comforting twist.
Fresh Veggies: Roasted or steamed broccoli, snap peas, or even a vibrant mixed salad provide a refreshing crunch and color to your plate.
Garnish with Greenery: Top with additional chopped scallions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

Looking for more ideas? Check out this article on meal prep strategies to keep your weeknight dinners exciting!

Time Breakdown for Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

When it comes to making these delicious glazed honey soy chicken thighs, knowing the timing can be a game changer. Here’s how the time breaks down:

Preparation Time

Spend about 1 hour marinating the chicken, allowing those flavors to soak in and really shine.

Cooking Time

The actual cooking takes about 32 minutes, with the chicken baking to juicy perfection.

Total Time

In a single session, plan for around 1 hour 45 minutes, which includes prep, marinating, and cooking. Perfect for a laid-back evening meal or a cozy weekend dinner!

If you're looking for tips on meal prep and marinating chicken, check out resources from the USDA on safe practices! Wouldn't it be great to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills?

Nutritional Facts for Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

When cooking up a batch of glazed honey soy chicken thighs, it's essential to be mindful of the nutritional content. Here’s a quick breakdown for each serving:

Calories

Each serving of these delicious thighs contains approximately 350 calories, making them a satisfying option without going overboard.

Protein

You can expect to get around 30 grams of protein per serving, making this dish a great choice for muscle recovery and energy throughout your busy day.

Sodium

With only 600 mg of sodium per serving, using low-sodium soy sauce helps keep this flavorful dish heart-healthy while still enjoying a robust taste.

For more insights on chicken nutrition, check out resources from Healthline or Nutrition.gov. Knowing these facts can help you balance your meals while enjoying these glazed honey soy chicken thighs guilt-free!

FAQs about Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

Can I grill glazed honey soy chicken thighs instead of baking them?

Absolutely! Grilling glazed honey soy chicken thighs adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Simply marinate the thighs as instructed, then preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side while brushing with the glaze. Just watch for that lovely char and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

How do I store leftovers of glazed honey soy chicken thighs?

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this recipe?

Certainly! While chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and juiciness, you can use chicken breasts as a lighter alternative. Make sure to adjust cooking times, as they might cook a bit faster. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they don’t dry out.

For more tips on chicken cuts, check out this resource.

Conclusion on Glazed Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

Creating glazed honey soy chicken thighs is not just a culinary experience; it’s a journey of flavors! The sweet and savory combination pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. This meal is perfect for impressing friends or enjoying a cozy night in. Try it tonight and savor the deliciousness!